Background & Purpose

Tachographs are used to track driving and rest times to ensure road safety, but some drivers and companies manipulate these devices to bypass rules. This creates unfair competition and poses a significant risk to traffic safety.

The Decision

The parliament decided to grant police and vehicle inspectors greater authority to investigate fraud and introduced prison as a potential punishment for those who tamper with the devices.

Does this affect you?

  • Professional drivers: They must ensure their tachograph is functioning correctly, as they now face stricter controls and potential prison time for manipulation.
  • Transport companies: Companies must ensure their fleet complies with the new regulations to avoid severe legal consequences for their drivers and business.
  • Police and vehicle inspectors: They receive expanded legal authority to conduct more thorough investigations and searches to detect and stop illegal tampering.

In Practice

  • Police and vehicle inspectors get the right to perform body searches and vehicle inspections if they suspect fraud.
  • Authorities can seize driver cards that are subject to revocation.
  • Tampering with a tachograph is now a criminal offense that can result in a prison sentence.
  • The new rules apply to all vehicles covered by EU regulations on driving and rest times.