Abnormal Loads
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what data her Department collects on the use of non-compliant (a) vehicles, (b) trailers and (c) load configurations on the road network.
Answered by Department for Transport
The Department for Transport, through the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), collects data on non-compliant vehicles, trailers and load configurations through roadside inspections and targeted enforcement activity. This includes offences and defects relating to roadworthiness, vehicle dimensions, weight limits, load security and compliance with the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. Information on enforcement action, including prohibitions, fixed penalties and prosecutions, is also recorded.
DVSA has powers under road traffic legislation to stop, inspect, weigh and prohibit non-compliant vehicles. DVSA conducts enforcement activities using a targeted enforcement approach, using Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology and intelligence and data insights, to focus resources on the operators and vehicles posing the greatest risk to road safety. DVSA officers are trained and accredited to exercise these powers, and enforcement policies and operational guidance are kept under review to ensure they remain effective and proportionate.
In 2025-26, DVSA detected 28,837 serious roadworthiness defects and traffic offences through its enforcement activity, demonstrating the continued effectiveness of its targeted approach to improving compliance and road safety.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →