Driving Rules Relaxed In Flooded Areas

18 February 2004 PR 34/04
Driving Rules Relaxed In Flooded Areas

Drivers of trucks carrying livestock in flood-affected areas of the lower North Island are allowed to work longer hours under a temporary exemption from government rules.

The exemption was sought by Federated Farmers of New Zealand (Inc), as part of a range of measures to help farmers cope with devastating floods.

Federated Farmers and the Road Transport Forum would like to thank the Land Transport Safety Authority for granting the exemption. It applies until February 23 under section 70B of the Transport Act 1962 and means that:

- Maximum total driving hours in any 24 hour period is extended from 11 to 13 hours;

- Maximum total on duty time in any 24 hour period is extended to 14 to 16 hours;

- Maximum continuous driving time before a half hour rest period must be taken is extended from 5½ to 6 hours;

- Maximum period of driving before 24 hour rest period is taken is extended from 66 to 76 hours;

- Maximum period of on duty before 24 hour rest period must be taken is extended to from 70 to 80 hours.

All time should be properly recorded in the driver's driving hours logbook and shall note reference number HN04/124.

"The exemption will help efforts to move stock from flood-damaged farms to safer grazing areas," said Gavin Forrest, Deputy Director, Policy.

"Though the driving limits have been extended, truck drivers must remain cautious about over working. If tired, drivers should take a rest. And taking another person in the cab would share some of the non-driving workload."

Ends

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