Lorraine Williamson
A recent traffic enforcement campaign by the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) found that 62.5% of reported infractions among professional drivers were due to violations of driving and rest time regulations.
This remains the most common offense despite repeated warnings about the importance of adhering to these rules.
Thousands of vehicles checked
Between 17 and 23 February, the Guardia Civil Traffic Unit inspected 28,334 commercial vehicles as part of Operation Truck & Bus, a Europe-wide initiative coordinated by RoadPol. Nearly 6,500 drivers were reported for failing to comply with traffic regulations. Additionally, 100 drivers tested positive for alcohol or drugs.
Exceeding driving hours remains the leading offence
Of the total violations, 3,633 were related to exceeding driving hours, with 3,430 offences involving truck drivers and 203 involving bus drivers. Another 427 violations were linked to tachograph misuse, affecting 383 truck drivers and 44 bus drivers.
Drug and alcohol offences among professional drivers
Authorities also detected cases of driving under the influence. A total of 21 truck drivers and two bus drivers tested positive for alcohol, while 72 truck drivers and five bus drivers tested positive for drugs. These figures highlight the persistent problem of substance use among professional drivers.
Vehicles immobilised for safety reasons
During the campaign, officers immobilised 95 trucks and five buses due to safety issues related to the driver or the vehicle itself. In each case, authorities determined that allowing the vehicle to continue operating would pose a risk to road users.
Administrative and vehicle compliance issues
In addition to safety violations, 1,035 drivers (899 truck drivers and 136 bus drivers) were reported for irregularities in documentation, either relating to the driver, the vehicle, or the transport operator. A further 726 infractions were linked to technical inspections, highlighting concerns over vehicle roadworthiness.
Overloading and speeding violations
Another 691 truck drivers and 5 bus drivers were fined for carrying excessive loads or failing to secure cargo properly. Additionally, 506 truck drivers and 18 bus drivers were penalised for exceeding speed limits.
DGT emphasises importance of compliance
DGT Director General Pere Navarro stressed that driving and rest time regulations are not arbitrary. “These rules are designed to prevent fatigue and improve road safety. The number of violations, particularly those involving alcohol and drugs, should make us reflect. Professional drivers must set an example for all road users.”
The results of this campaign underline the ongoing need for stricter enforcement of driving regulations to improve road safety and ensure compliance within the transport sector.