Changes to HGV drivers test only a "short-term" solution, says Norfolk firm
The changes mean drivers will only have one test instead of two and will no longer be examined on some driving manoeuvre's, like reversing
Changes to HGV drivers' tests are only a "short term" solution and could cause safety issues in the longer-term, says Norfolk Haulage company W's Transport.
The national changes mean drivers will only have one test instead or two are no longer going to be examined on some driving manoeuvre's, such as reserving.
Helen Wright, transport manager of the firm told us that she doesn't believe relaxing current elements means there will be an "influx of applicants" who will come in to fill the current vacancies, that exceed 100,000 across the UK.
"Its cost money at the end of the day and with everything going on in the world, I don't think there's too many people that have between ÂŁ1,800 and ÂŁ2,000 to go and spend on a test".
She also went on to say "you do still need the safety element on the road- it's not just as simple as putting something on the back of your car and off you go. You've got to know what speed to go and how load a trailer or any kind".
Ms Wright did however tell us that she "was in favour" of the number of tests being reduced from one to two. She says this element makes sense considering drivers previously only need to take one test before they could legally drive a HGV on the road.
She told that reserving "should still be part of the test", but now must be "monitored by official trainers" because it is a "safety issue and its very difficult to reserve"
W's Transport, based in East Dereham, have had to sell two of their six lorries due to driver shortages.
She told us they advertised for a driver for two months, but didn't receive a single application