In a significant step to improve the resting and safety conditions for truck drivers, the Ministry of Transport has launched a platform showing safe truck parking facilities in Spain. This innovative initiative consists of two directories, each with a specific purpose. The first focuses on 8 safe parking facilities certified in compliance with the European Regulation, while the second lists 42 parking facilities certified under the framework of the European Label project.
However, the most exciting development is the future unification of these directories into a single map, simplifying the search for safe parking areas for hauliers. The Directorate General for Roads has announced a six-month transition period during which both directories will remain available. After this period, the consolidated platform will provide information on safe and secure parking areas that comply with the European Commission Regulation.
The lack of safe rest areas for professional drivers has been a constant concern for both Spanish hauliers and hauliers throughout the European Union. Before the beginning of last summer, the National Road Transport Committee met with the Ministry of Transport to address this crucial issue. ASTIC, a member of the Committee, has stressed the urgency of having these areas, stating that “we cannot postpone the need to establish an effective network of parking areas throughout the EU until 2040, as suggested by the European Commission, without taking concrete action. While we wait, many drivers continue to rest in areas that lack adequate conditions and present risks to their safety”.
The International Road Transport Organisation (IRU) estimates that at least 100,000 safe parking spaces are currently required in Europe. Although there are approximately 300,000 parking spaces in the European Union, less than 3% of them (around 7,000) have safety and security certifications, highlighting the need to improve the facilities available.
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