Transport for London (TfL) has strengthened the requirements for its Direct Vision Standard (DVS), improving its methods for protecting the lives of vulnerable road users in the capital.
TfL’s DVS measures how much an HGV driver can see directly through their cab windows and sets minimum standards, to promote visibility and safe driving practices.
The transport body is now strengthening the minimum safety requirements for vehicles in the capital to reduce the level of risk that HGVs can pose to all road users, especially people walking and cycling.
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In 2023, there was a 62% reduction in the number of fatal collisions involving an HGV, compared to the 2017-19 baseline, as well as reductions in serious injuries.
However, six people were killed and 32 people were seriously injured in collisions involving HGVs in 2023.
HGVs over 12 tonnes will now require a minimum three-star DVS rating or to fit an updated system of enhanced safety features – the Progressive Safe System (PSS) – to operate in Greater London.
Operators will receive a penalty charge notice of up to £550 if they operate an HGV over 12 tonnes in Greater London without a valid HGV safety permit, or do not meet the permit conditions for the PSS.
TfL has introduced these changes to further enhance the safety standards of HGVs operating in the capital, helping it to reduce road danger for everyone.
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The current safe system was developed and consulted on in 2018, and reviewed by TfL in 2022 to reflect new equipment and technologies available on the market.
TfL’s director of strategy, Christina Calderato, said: “Since we introduced London’s pioneering DVS, we have seen a significant reduction in fatal collisions where vision is a factor in the capital.
“However, there is much more we need to do, to achieve our goal of eradicating deaths and serious injuries from London’s transport network.
“It’s vital that all vehicles using London’s roads have safety at the forefront of their design and we’re excited that from today HGVs operating in the capital will become even safer.
“We’d also like to thank the freight industry for their work helping to ensure that vehicles fit the new safety requirements.”
Achievements and innovations in road safety will be celebrated at the third annual CiTTi Awards, which will be held on 26 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector – and to book your table!
