Bad brakes and excess weight are the most common offences among UK and foreign drivers who have been issued with fixed penalties in the past twelve months.
Since 28 May 2009 Graduated Fixed Penalties have been issued by VOSA examiners and those drivers that fail to confirm a satisfactory address within the UK are required to pay the penalty ‘on the spot’.
The rules are part of a wider scheme and depending on the severity of the offence a one off deposit requirement of between £300 and £900 can also be issued. Since the scheme was launched it has generated nearly £ 3.5million.
The number of fixed penalties issued to UK drivers is more than 11,500 and to foreign drivers nearly 22,000.
VOSA Sanctions Manager, Karen Farr said: “The introduction of graduated fixed penalties and deposits has strengthened VOSA’s enforcement capabilities. This has meant that not only has the scheme provided an effective sanction for dealing with offending foreign drivers, but has also proved to be a valuable deterrent to all drivers regardless of nationality.”
“We have already seen increases in compliance for certain offences now that drivers are aware that we are serious about tackling road safety.”
Payment will only be accepted in sterling or using a chip and pin card. Euros will not be accepted. UK drivers will have the usual 28 days to pay the fine or if they choose not to accept the fixed penalty have the case heard in court.
