Mandatory overnight safety breaks: new German legislation

15.6.2017

Question for written answer E-004002-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Tomáš Zdechovský (PPE)

Following a change made to German legislation on truck transportation last month, professional truck drivers are now no longer able to use their vehicles for their mandatory overnight safety breaks, and are forced to use accommodation facilities at parking lots instead. Consequently, many drivers are opting to stay in the border areas of neighbouring countries rather than in Germany. This change not only has an impact on the flow of traffic in these areas, but also creates problems for professional transportation companies, which must take it into consideration when planning drivers’ routes.

Is the Commission aware of this issue?

Is it planning to address the problem at EU level?