What is the correct action for an HGV red/amber cab warning lamp?
faqs -> procedures
The ABS/EBS warning lamp (Malfunction Indicator Light 'MIL') can show either an yellow (amber) or red state.
Yellow Warning Lamp
In the case where an yellow warning light illuminates during a journey, the driver must pull over at the next safe place, record it in the driver's log and contact their management. The driver must then travel to a place of repair to resolve any issues.
If a driver is stopped by roadside enforcement and an yellow light is illuminated, the driver must be able to provide evidence that a) the lamp came on during the journey and b) they are travelling to a place of repair. If roadside enforcement is not satisfied that the evidence is satisfactory, they may issue penalties.
Red Warning Lamp
If a red warning illuminates, the driver must pull over at the next safe place and record it in the driver's log and contact their management. The fault must be resolved at roadside before resuming any journey.
The driver must never start a journey with either an yellow or red warning lamp illuminated.
If you are driving a UK HGV trailer and you get stopped by the DVSA with a red ABS/EBS warning light, you could face a number of penalties, including:
- A fine of up to £5,000
- Three penalty points on your driving license
- A requirement to have the trailer repaired or replaced before you can continue driving
- A ban from driving HGVs
- Negative impact on Operator Compliance Risk Score (OCRS) and potentially higher inspection frequency.
The severity of the penalty will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the defect, your driving history, and the circumstances of the stop.
It is important to note that driving an HGV with a red ABS/EBS warning light is considered to be a serious offense. The DVSA takes this type of offense very seriously and will not hesitate to issue penalties to drivers who are caught driving with a defective trailer.
Legal Framework: Regulation 100 of the Road Vehicles (Construction & Use) Act 1986
Both yellow and red warning lamps are considered under Regulation 100, which mandates that vehicles must not be used if they are in a condition likely to cause danger. This regulation is enforced through roadside inspections and categorisation of defects as outlined in the DVSA Categorisation of Vehicle Defects guide.
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