FTA: Roads need more facilities for drivers

Posted : 06-02-2007

Trunk roads and motorways should have adequate facilities for motorists, it has been claimed by the Freight Transport Association (FTA).

Places for drivers to rest and obtain refreshments should be seen by the Highways Agency as of similar importance to building the road itself, the FTA maintains, with particular consideration for those who drive lorries across longer distances.

Richard Turner, chief executive of the FTA, said that freight drivers who need access to long-stay parking for rest purposes should be taken into account when a road is constructed.

He commented: "Why are we still seeing roads without proper driver facilities?"

The Highway Code warns that driving while tired greatly increases the risk of having an accident, which may cause commercial vehicle insurance premiums to rise if this were to happen to a freight driver.

A minimum break of 15 minutes for every two hours on the road is recommended by the Highway Code.

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