TfL seeks final proposals on HGV blind spot detection

Transport for London has launched the final public consultation on its Direct Vision Standard proposals, which are designed to eliminate Heavy Goods Vehicles’ blind spots.

It says the Direct Vision Standard, and associated Safety Permit for HGVs that have retrofitted a Safe System, will reduce road danger for people across the capital. In 2017 around 4,000 people were killed or seriously injured in collisions on London’s streets.

TfL research shows that between 2015 and 2017 HGVs were disproportionately involved in fatal collisions, with 63% of those involving people cycling and 25% of those involving people walking. This is despite HGVs only making up four per cent of the overall miles driven in the capital.

TfL is now consulting on the final scheme proposals with a particular focus on the HGV safety permit processes, saying that restrictions in an HGV driver’s field of vision have been identified as a significant contributory factor in collisions.

Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said, “I am proud that London will be the first city in the world to take such bold action to remove the most unsafe lorries from our streets. We are not prepared to stand by and let dangerous lorries continue to cause further heartbreak and tragedy on London’s roads.”

Subject to final consultation, permits will be issued from October this year. Operators will be able to apply for a permit via an online application portal on TfL’s website.