Foreign lorry drivers putting lives at risk
Jan 1, 2010
On a typical day there are 12,000 foreign lorries on the country's roads, and offending haulage companies are believed to be flouting the law because of the huge profits available, and the relatively minor penalties.
Recent EU expansion has not helped matters as accident numbers have grown rapidly amongst the new EU accession countries, such as the Czech Republic & Lithuania.
What to do if involved in an accident with a foreign driver - The Green Card Bureau’s advice
Ask for proof of insurance. This will usually be in the form of a Green Card or a foreign insurance certificate. Make sure the registration number on the document is the same as the one on the front cab unit of the lorry not the trailer.
It is important to get the Green Card number and policy number. Green Card numbers have a country code prefix.
Note the country identification code on the vehicle and take the drivers UK address if there is one.
You may be asked to complete a constat form, and as long as you understand it and the foreign driver has provided his own details, it is safe to do so.
If it is possible to take photographs make sure you get the full registration number on the front of the vehicle and any identifying letters at the back.
MIBs website at www.mib.org.uk can be checked to see if the foreign insurer has a UK agent who will handle the claim on their behalf.
For more information and advice, contact Jon Denney on 01422 398607 or email jonathan.denney@wilbyltd.co.uk
