Width decides the tax rating
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IV Trucks carrying loads more than 43m wide must now be taxed at £5,170 per year regardless of their gross vehicle weight. The new ruling follows a decision in the High Court earlier this month.
Experts say It Is unlikely that police will refuse to escort a vehicle if it is incorrectly taxed, but they may well prosecute for back duty. A fine might also be imposed of up to £1,000, or five times the difference between the duty paid and the duty that should have been paid—whichever is higher.
Judges in the High Court ruled on 2 March that it is not the construction of the vehicle or its weight that matters. but the legislation it is moving under.
If it is carrying a wide load it Is operating under Article 20 of the Motor Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) General Order 1979 and has to be licensed at the "Special Types" rate.