Exceeding daily driving time is statistically the most common infringement detected during European roadside inspections. Under EU Regulation (EC) 561/2006, even a minimal deviation can trigger severe financial penalties for both the driver and the transport company.
Digital tachographs record movement with forensic precision. Most daily excesses are not intentional but result from poor route planning, unforeseen traffic congestion, or a lack of real-time visibility regarding the driver’s remaining driving availability. If left uncorrected, these incidents lead to Accumulated Driving Excesses and a higher risk rating.
Daily Driving Limits: Standard vs. Extended
To maintain compliance, a driver must calculate their driving time within a "spread" or between two daily rest periods. The law allows for two thresholds:
| Regulated Threshold | Maximum Duration | Weekly Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Day | 9 Hours | Normal Limit |
| Extended Day | 10 Hours | Max. 2 times per week |
Penalty Scale: Minor vs. Very Serious Infringements
Authorities classify the gravity of the breach based on the percentage of excess beyond the 9 or 10-hour mark:
Exceeding the limit by less than 1 hour. Usually carries a moderate fine but adds up in audits.
Exceeding by 1 to 2 hours. Significant impact on the company's ERRU risk rating.
Exceeding by more than 2 hours or a 3rd extension in a week. Can lead to vehicle impoundment.
Business Risks & Administrative Sanctions
Fines are only the beginning. Excessive driving times directly affect the financial stability and legal repute of transport undertakings:
Financial Sanctions
Depending on the jurisdiction (e.g., France, Germany, Spain), VSIs can reach up to €4,500 per incident.
Vehicle Immobilisation
Inspectors may prohibit the vehicle from moving until a full daily rest period is completed on-site.
TachoTools: Your Defense Against Daily Excesses
Manual logbook checks are reactive. Professional fleet managers use TachoTools to stay proactive. Our engine analyzes .DDD and .TGD files to provide:
- Remaining Drive Time: Instant calculation of legal availability.
- Extension Tracker: Never accidentally use a 3rd 10-hour day in a week.
- Alert System: Identification of "Critical Zones" before the driver finishes the shift.
Audit Your Driving Times Now
Don't wait for a roadside check. Upload your driver card data and receive a professional compliance report in seconds.
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