Chain of Responsibility – where to next for the national transport laws

Throughout 2017, in each edition of Weekly Brief, our Transport team has examined a different aspect of the Chain of Responsibility (CoR) and Heavy Vehicle National laws, including in the piece ' Remondis to pay $982,206 for Chain of Responsibility mass breaches by contractor' which proved to be very popular with readers.

These laws are set to get considerably tougher from mid-2018. Maximum penalties will increase to $3 million for corporations and $300,000, plus up to five years' imprisonment, for individuals.

In preparation for the introduction of the new system, now is a good time to conduct a review of all transport activities which your business undertakes and to determine whether you have policies and procedures in place which fulfil the primary duty of care under the new HVNL.

We look forward to continuing our CoR coverage in the new year and will keep a close eye on the transition to the new system.

This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.