rijtijdenwetten

Rijtijdenwetten are the set of rules governing how long professional road transport drivers may drive and how long they must rest. In the Netherlands and across the European Union, these laws aim to improve road safety, driver health, and fair competition among transport operators.

The core of rijtijdenwetten in the EU is Regulation 561/2006, which outlines driving-time limits, mandatory breaks, and minimum rest periods. Key provisions include a maximum driving time per day (9 hours, extendable to 10 hours up to twice per week), a weekly driving-time limit (56 hours) and a limit over two consecutive weeks (90 hours). After 4.5 hours of driving, a break of at least 45 minutes is required, which may be split into two periods (for example, 15 minutes and 30 minutes). A daily rest period of at least 11 hours is required, and it may be reduced to 9 hours no more than twice per week, provided an equivalent rest period is taken later. Weekly rest must meet a minimum duration, with reductions only permitted under compensated arrangements as defined by the regulation. In addition, drivers must use a tachograph to record driving time and rest periods, with data available to authorities for enforcement.

In the Netherlands, rijtijdenwetten are implemented through national frameworks such as the Arbeidstijdenwet (Working Hours Act) and the Regeling Rijtijden en Rusttijden, with enforcement carried out by the Inspectie Leefomgeving en Transport (ILT) and other authorities. Violations can lead to penalties, prohibitions on operation, and discussions of operator accountability.

See also: tachographs, working hours legislation,EU transport regulation.