Using a transport consultant? This what you need to know

24 February 2023

Using a transport consultant? This what you need to know.  The Office of the Traffic Commissioner has recently issued new guidance for operators on the use of transport consultants and representatives. Both legal representatives and consultants can provide Operators with much needed advice and guidance, however the use of those who may not have proper knowledge and experience can often lead to incorrect or poor advice being given which may lead to the Operator heading to a dreaded Public Inquiry.

The Traffic Commissioner has identified areas of poor service and red flags to look out for that could land unwary operators and transport managers in a public inquiry. A lack of basic checks, such as which entity is applying for the O-licence or whether the operator has financial standing for their application are the types of errors that could trigger the dreaded call-up to a public inquiry hearing.

When an operator instructs a solicitor they get the benefit of a highly regulated industry – and with Backhouse Jones the additional benefit of a top-ranked, specialist transport solicitor. We have also developed a pool of trusted and knowledgeable consultants that we are happy to refer into our client’s if the need arises.

The Backhouse Jones team can provide expert guidance on everything relating to your operator’s licence from application issues to full support and representation at a public inquiry. For more information on Backhouse Jones’ team of expert road transport solicitors click here, call 01254 828 300, or email regulatory@backhouses.co.uk.

You can read the full Traffic Commissioner Guidance on the use of consultants and representatives here.