Safety of road haulage

Lorry drivers face safety risks at rest areas and in tunnels. The government is therefore taking measures to enhance safety in these places.

Safety at rest areas

Lorry drivers run the risk of being robbed at rest areas. Every year, this kind of crime costs haulage companies a great deal of money. The government therefore encourages companies and drivers to use secure rest areas whenever possible. It is also improving lighting at rest areas beside motorways.

3 categories of secure rest area

The government is ensuring there are signs to guide lorry drivers to secure rest areas. They can be recognised by a special road sign (see image), which shows drivers where they can safely take a break or spend the night. Shippers, transporters and insurance companies can also be sure that their cargo is safe.

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Road sign indicating a category 3 secure rest area.

Safety in tunnels

An accident in a tunnel can have more serious consequences than an accident on the open road. It is more difficult for the emergency services to do their job when there is an incident in a tunnel. The government is therefore focusing on tunnel safety. It has for example introduced special legislation which sets clear safety requirements for tunnels.

Tunnels and dangerous goods

Lorry drivers may not simply drive through any tunnel carrying dangerous goods. Since 1 January 2010 they have had to comply with European rules. The safety category applying to the tunnel determines which dangerous goods may be transported through it.

Protecting road haulage from terrorist attack

The EU encourages companies that trade internationally to invest in security, including equipment that allows them to track and trace their vehicles at all times. Companies that do so can acquire the status of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO), allowing them to cross the EU’s outer borders with fewer checks.