Enforcement investigations or inspections by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency can cause extensive difficulties for businesses.
If you rely on goods or passenger vehicles in the running of your organisation, any threat to their operation can be damaging to your enterprise, your reputation and to consumer confidence. If an investigation is commenced, it is advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Proactive and practical advice and representation

At Taylor Law we understand how important it is to keep your business running smoothly. We represent clients who are being investigated by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency across a range of issues to ensure that their rights and interests are protected and that they have a strong defence to any allegations of wrongdoing.
For an enterprise that relies on commercial vehicles, an investigation or sanctions can effectively halt operations and cause lasting damage. We can intervene quickly on your behalf to manage an investigation and negotiate where possible to reach an acceptable resolution.
Early intervention is always advisable to deal with difficulties before they escalate and before positions become entrenched.

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency powers

A Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency officer has the power to stop commercial vehicles such as lorries, vans, buses and coaches and to carry out spot checks. Where a problem is found, they can issue prohibitions, preventing the vehicle from being driven until the problem is fixed.
They can also issue fixed penalties for minor issues or, in the event of more serious offences, you can be prosecuted in court.

Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency prosecutions

Commercial operators can face a variety of charges in respect of their drivers or vehicles, including in respect of the following:

• Exceeding weight restrictions
• Counterfeiting tachographs
• Driving without insurance
• Exceeding driver hours
• Failing to take sufficient rest
• Driving without a licence or not in accordance with the terms of a licence
• Failing to display a licence

Facing accusations of any of the above as a commercial enterprise can have a serious impact on your business and it is important that you seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Legal representation for Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency allegations

In the event that you are being investigated by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, we can advise you at every stage of proceedings including the following:

• Representation and advice at interviews, to include interviews under caution
• Help with on-site investigations into paperwork
• Preparation of statements on your behalf
• Challenging findings
• Negotiating with officers
• Defending any legal action brought against you or your business.

If you have been contacted in respect of an investigation, it is advisable to seek legal advice and representation as a matter of urgency.

Contact us

If you are found guilty of an offence by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, it can have a devastating impact on your business if you rely on commercial vehicles. We understand how important it is to move quickly to deal with allegations and to minimise disruption and protect your interests.
We have an excellent track record of success in working with clients in respect of Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency investigations and litigation, with expert civil and criminal defence solicitors in Leeds, Middlesbrough and London who can step in immediately to advise and represent you.

For an initial discussion, ring us on 0113 532 8100 (Leeds), 01642 221 108 (Middlesbrough) or 0203 780 7646 (London) or fill in our Contact Form.