A HGV driver who continued to drive after he exceeded his permitted time limit by manipualting his records has been fined.

Arthur Skillern, 72, appeared at Liverpool, Knowsley and St Helens Magistrates’ Court on December 1 after a prosecution was brought forward by the Driver & Vehicles Standards Agency.

Skillern, of Orville Street, Sutton, indicated guilty pleas to making false records while on a ‘EC Regulated’ journey, contrary to the Transport Act 1968.

He carried out digital tachograph infringements and manipulation. 

Tachographs record information about driving time, speed and distance. They’re used to make sure drivers and employers follow the rules on drivers’ hours.

They are used if vehicles come under EU or AETR rules.

READ > CCTV appeal after man 'suffers serious head injury' in assault

The offences took place between November 2021 and January 2022 in Merseyside.

He was given a fine on one count of manipulating tachograph records – there was no separate penalty in respect of the other seven counts. 

Skillem was fined £400, made to pay £200 in costs and a £40 surcharge, making a total of £640.

Skillern no longer works for the company concerned.

Caroline Hicks, DVSA’s head enforcement regulatory services and transformation said: "Drivers’ hours rules are there to protect drivers and other road users from the effects of travelling tired on long journeys.

“Tired drivers have slower reaction times and reduced awareness, so are more likely to be involved in a serious collision.”

“Exceeding the limits and falsifying records is an offence and we will help keep people safe, by enforcing these rules.”