The role of the heavy vehicle driver in Portugal is essential for the transport of goods and passengers throughout the country. This professional needs to be well informed about local and European regulations, especially those regarding driving time, rest periods and use of the tachograph. Below, we will detail the main points that all heavy vehicle drivers must know and respect in order to perform their duties in accordance with the law.
Laws and Regulations for HGV Drivers in Portugal
Applicable European Legislation
The rules governing the profession of heavy goods vehicle driver in Portugal are strongly influenced by European Union (EU) regulations, especially with regard to driving and rest times. The main legislation regulating these aspects is Regulation (EC) No. 561/2006. This regulation is essential to guarantee road safety and the working conditions of heavy goods vehicle drivers.
Driving Times
Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 sets clear limits on daily and weekly driving time:
– Daily Driving Time : determines the maximum driving times and also the daily rest time intervals
– Weekly Driving Time : determines the maximum driving times and also the weekly rest time intervals
The driving and rest times of heavy goods vehicle drivers are a way of protecting their physical and mental integrity, in addition to ensuring safety on the roads.
To understand and stay within the parameters and regulations, visit our article on driving and rest times .
National Legislation and Particularities in Portugal
Although Regulation (EC) No. 561/2006 is the main guide for HGV drivers, Portugal also has national legislation that complements European standards. Portuguese legislation, such as the Highway Code and Decree-Law No. 169/2009 , provides specific requirements for the operation of HGVs in the country.
Licensing and Training
HGV drivers in Portugal must hold a Category C Driving License , which is required to drive vehicles weighing more than 3,500 kg. In addition, a Driver Aptitude Certificate (CAM) is required, which proves that the driver has undergone appropriate training.
Regulation 1258/2024: important changes
Regulation 1258/2024, which is already in force, brought some important specific conditions to the rules on driving and rest times.
The changes relate to the requirement for the “journey sheet” on board, the division of breaks and rest periods.
To find out more details, including a visual diagram of the changes brought about by regulation 1258/2024, visit our article Regulation 1258/2024 (EU): what changes for HGV drivers?
Requirements for Obtaining CAM:
1. Initial Training Course : Lasting 280 hours, including theory and practice.
2. Final Exam : Theoretical-practical test supervised by the Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMT).
3. Renewal : The CAM must be renewed every 5 years, with a 35-hour continuous training course.
Vehicle Maintenance and Inspection
Regular maintenance of heavy vehicles is a legal obligation in Portugal. Periodic inspections must be carried out in accordance with Decree-Law No. 144/2012 , which establishes:
– Initial Inspection : Heavy vehicles must undergo inspection within one year of first registration.
– Annual Inspections : After the initial inspection, reviews must be annual.
The Use of the Tachograph
Legal Requirements for the Tachograph
The tachograph is a mandatory device for all heavy vehicles in the European Union, including Portugal, as regulated by Regulation (EC) No. 165/2014 . It records essential data such as driving time, breaks, rest periods and speed, ensuring that drivers comply with legal requirements.
– Digital Tachograph : Since 2006, all new heavy-duty vehicles must be equipped with digital tachographs. These devices are safer and more accurate, and they also make it easier to manage and analyse the recorded data.
– Reading and Storage of Data : Transport companies are required to read the data from the digital tachograph every 28 days and store it for at least one year. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in heavy fines.
The Importance of the 1tacho Platform
To help drivers and transport companies comply with legal obligations, the 1tacho platform offers a complete solution for managing digital tachograph data . This tool simplifies the reading, storage and analysis of data, ensuring compliance with current regulations.
Road Safety Rules for Heavy Vehicle Drivers
Driving Care
Driving heavy vehicles requires extra care, both on the part of drivers and the companies that employ them. Some fundamental safety rules include:
1. Speed : Respecting speed limits is crucial. In Portugal, speed limits for heavy vehicles are generally lower than those for light vehicles, especially on motorways and in urban areas.
2. Safety Distance : Maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front is vital to avoid collisions, especially considering the weight and inertia of heavy vehicles.
3. Weather Conditions : Driving in adverse conditions such as rain, fog or ice requires additional precautions such as reducing speed and increasing the safety distance.
Cargo and Transportation
The safe transportation of goods is a key responsibility of HGV drivers. Decree Law No. 156/2005 sets out the rules for the transportation of dangerous goods and the securing of loads.
– Securing the Load : The load must be correctly secured to prevent movements that could destabilize the vehicle. The use of straps, nets and other safety devices is mandatory.
– Weight Limit : It is crucial to respect the weight limits specified for the vehicle. Exceeding the permitted weight can result in fines and put safety at risk.
Working conditions
The working conditions of heavy goods vehicle drivers are governed by Portuguese and European labor legislation, aiming to protect the health and well-being of professionals.
Occupational Health and Safety
Heavy vehicle drivers must undergo periodic medical examinations to ensure they are fit to drive, in accordance with the guidelines of the Directorate-General for Health (DGS).
Procedures in Case of Accidents or Incidents
Road Accidents
In the event of an accident, the truck driver must follow specific procedures, which include:
1. Signaling: Immediately signal the accident site using the emergency triangle and four flashing lights.
2. Call the Authorities : Contact the police and emergency services. In Portugal, the emergency number is 112.
3. Accident Report: It is mandatory to complete the Friendly Declaration of Automobile Accident (DAAA) in the event of a collision with other vehicles.
4. Personal safety: Do not stay on the road or in places with poor visibility and, in the event of a risk of fire, move away from the vehicle.
Dangerous Goods Incidents
If the accident involves dangerous goods, the driver must follow additional procedures:
– Evacuation and Isolation : If there is a spill of hazardous substances, the area must be evacuated and third parties must not approach.
– Notification : Immediately inform the transport company and the competent authorities about the incident.
Tools and Technologies to Support Truck Drivers
Digital Tachograph and Data Management
Technology plays a crucial role in managing the activity of truck drivers. 1tacho, a platform specialized in managing digital tachograph data, offers features that help with compliance with legislation, including:
– Remote Monitoring: Allows companies to monitor drivers’ driving and rest times remotely, as soon as the driver downloads the data into the application.
– Data Analysis: The platform automatically analyzes the data, identifying patterns that may indicate risks, such as excessive driving hours.
– Detailed Reports : Generates reports that facilitate internal audits and preparation for inspections by authorities.
– Viewing Violations: 1tacho allows both truck drivers and fleet managers to view violations and all data from the last 56 days.
Conclusion
Truck drivers in Portugal need to be aware of a series of regulations and good practices to ensure road safety, compliance with laws and efficiency in the transport of goods and passengers. The use of technologies such as the 1tacho platform, for managing digital tachograph data, is a great ally in facilitating compliance with legal obligations and improving time management and driving safety.
