Weight queries
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The Drivers Action Movement (DAM) feels several questions need to be answered about the proposed increase in gross LGV weights discussed in the Government Green Paper.
Will only new vehicles that comply with Euro-2 qualify to carry 44 tonnes? When weights were increased to 38 tonnes all kinds of older vehicles were uprated, had tag axles fitted and so on. Nowl5 to 20-year-old vehicles could be trucking about at 44 tonnes—it really doesn't bear thinking about.
So, does the Department of Transport think the cowboys will increase weights to remain competitive?
DAM also feels the extra weight and the added use of lower gears could mean excessive noise for a driver who is in the cab for up to 10 hours a day. What proven tests have been made on decibel levels on different LGV vehicles, and what were the findings?
Section 16 of the Green Paper talks about the saving of 6,500 vehicles that would be achieved by adding 5.0 tonnes whenever possible. Does the DOT realise that some vehicles crammed with goods will become top heavy and dangerous to drive in some conditions ? Is there any research on this? And has there been any thought about what happens to LGV drivers who become unemployed through this drastic change? If the figure of 6,500 vehicles being lost is correct, what will this mean to the benefits system?
'I'm more questions: firstly, is it the intention of the DOT to give more subsidies to the rail network to the detriment of road haulage operations?
And secondly, is it intended to make weighbridges available that can not only weigh the trains but also individual mad vehicles?
Our last major concern is about the affect these weight increases will have on drivers. Our concern is the added stress factor, the unknown element of carrying this sort of weight in different conditions, which could mean a danger not only to the driver but to the public.
Jack Crossfield, Drivers Action Movement.