The transport sector of the European Union has been working on the new EU Regulation 2024/1258 for almost two weeks now. This ordinance is aimed at increasing road safety in the segment of road freight and periodic passenger transport.
The previous EU Regulation 561/2006 is no longer in force. The new one is another step towards improving compliance with the rules for the use of tachographs and creating a level playing field for carriers. However, the main aim is to improve the working conditions of drivers across the EU.
The main innovations are described in four sections.
The first chapter deals with the cross-border enforcement of sentences that have already come into force. From now on, the authorities of any EU Member State can impose fines for tachograph-related offences, regardless of where the offense took place, including in third countries. Previously, fines could only be imposed in the country where the violation was registered.
The second section talks about extending the period of supervision. From January 1, 2025, traffic control will cover violations for the last 56 days instead of the previous 28 days. This will allow more thorough monitoring of compliance with the rules for the use of the tachograph.
The third section deals with the flexibility of passenger transport. The norms have already entered into force and are aimed at drivers who are involved in irregular passenger transport. Drivers can now split their 45-minute break into two breaks of at least 15 minutes each. They can also extend their working day by up to one hour under certain conditions, if this does not endanger road safety or the working conditions of the drivers.
The fourth chapter is devoted to digital lists and tachographs. The EU is reportedly working on digitizing passenger manifests and updating tachographs to record the type of passenger transport (regular or occasional), which will simplify compliance and enforcement procedures. This will further facilitate supervision and reduce the administrative burden on drivers and carriers.