Department for Transport announced that fixed penalty levels will increase from 16 August 2013. Graduated fixed penalties and financial deposits for vans, trucks and buses are also increased as a result of the changes. Offences against drivers’ hours rules will now result in higher penalties at the roadside.

• a £30 fine will rise to £50
• a £60 fine will rise to £100
• a £120 fine will rise to £200
• a £200 fine will rise to £300

VOSA Chief Executive Alastair Peoples said, “These new penalty levels are intended to ensure penalties reflect the seriousness of the offence and are consistent with those in other areas of offending. I know the majority of operators and drivers work within the law, but those that don’t need to know there are increased financial consequences and they should reconsider if it’s worth the risk.” Increases will also be made to the maximum deposit that we can take at the roadside from offending overseas vehicles. Penalty points will not change. VOSA’s Guide to Graduated Fixed Penalties and Financial Deposits will be updated on 16 August to reflect the new fees.