Driving Application Form


Legal Obligations

Declaration

  1. I declare that the information I have given on all pages of this application form are true and correct.
  2. I have received a copy of, read and had explained to me the Contract for Services and agree to be bound by it provisions.
  3.  Whilst I am working for a client of Merit I am under the direction and control of that client just as if I were employed by them.
  4. If I am engaged in work subject to EU driver’s rules, and I work for any other company not through Merit I must declare my driving hours to Merit.
  5. If I am engaged in work subject to EU driver’s rules, I am responsible for ensuring that I do not exceed the working hours as dictated by the EU Working Time Directive and if I do not declare these hours to Merit then I am responsible for any legal action that may occur.
  6. I acknowledge that Merit can only pay me for hours worked and not for breaks or travelling time, as confirmed by a timesheet signed by the client and myself.
  7. I confirm that I am responsible for conducting myself in a correct and professional manner and will abide by all relevant laws, by-laws and regulations of the client for whom I am working.
  8. Where appropriate, I will download or return tachograph charts to the vehicle operator within the specified time.
  9. I have noted my work history above, covering at least the last five years, together with the details of any unspent criminal convictions or offences pending, as well as details of any physical or mental disability which may affect my work
  10. I confirm that I am responsible for the Health and safety of the vehicle, and will ensure the safe transport of loads.
  11. I hereby authorise Merit to disclose my telephone number to any client for whom I may be working in order for contact during the working day.
  12. Merit has an insurance policy in place to protect drivers and vehicles from accidental and wilful damage when on Assignment with a Merit client. 
  13. Drivers in relation to a claim on Merit insurance will be liable for payment of the excess on the policy, if at fault. I confirm that I understand that in the instance of a claim against Merit’s Negligence Insurance that occurs through any fault of my own, I will be liable to make payment for any applicable policy excess.
  14. I authorise Merit to conduct  monthly (or as required) online checks on my driving licence.  

I confirm that I am:  

  • Over 21 years or age 
  • Hold a full licence applicable to the vehicle I will be driving 
  • Have worked as a driver for at least 45 days in the last 6 months 
  • Do not have more than 6 points on my licence in acceptable endorsements types as listed above  

I confirm that I understand that in the instance of a claim against Merit Negligence Insurance that occurs through any inaction or action on my behalf when on Assignment / driving for a client of Merit, I will be liable to make payment for any applicable policy excess.

Mobile Phone Use

Using ANY mobile phone when driving is dangerous.

Using a handheld mobile phone when driving is illegal.

The Law

It’s illegal to use a handheld mobile when driving. 

This includes using your phone to: 

  • Follow a Map 
  • Use Social Media 
  • Check Email 
  • Read or Send Texts 

This also applies when you are sat at traffic lights or stuck in traffic. 

You can only use a handheld phone in a car if you are safely parked or need to call 999 in an emergency. 

The Consequences 

If you are caught using a handheld phone whilst driving, you will get 6 penalty points on your licence and a fine of £200. Points on your licence will result in higher insurance costs. 

Penalties for driving carelessly or dangerously when using a mobile phone can include a large fine, disqualification, and up to two years imprisonment.  

What to do: 

  • Do not use hand held mobile at any time 
  • If you use a hands free set, ensure you are in full control of your vehicle at all times
  • If you must use your hand held mobile, you must park safely before doing so 

Working with Merit 

When on assignment with Merit, you are bound by the relevant laws concerning mobile phone use. If you are found to be using your phone whilst on assignment with Merit clients, you will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of assignment or contract.