Direct Vision Standard – 3 months on

Direct Vision Standard – 3 months on

Three months ago Transport for London (TfL) launched the direct vision standard (DVS) for lorries across London. DVS forms part of the Mayor of London’s Vision Zero plan to eliminate all death and serious injuries from London’s streets by 2041.

According to the latest information issued by TfL:

136,000 safety permits have been issued
70,000 HGVs have been fitted with the safety measures
7,000 penalty charge notices (PCNs) have been issued
The scheme is now operating 24/7 and is enforced on all roads in London

Why have HGVs been the main focus of road safety initiatives in London?

Between 2018-20, HGVs accounted for just 3% of the overall miles driven in London, yet were involved in:

41% of fatal collisions involving people cycling
19% of fatal collisions involving people walking

Comment

Christina Calderato, head of transport strategy and planning for TfL, said :

“We want to thank all of the freight operators who have led the way in ensuring they only operate the safest lorries in London and across the UK and we would like to encourage any freight operators who haven’t yet applied for a safety permit to do so.”

“The safety permits are just the first step in our aim to ensure that families don’t experience the tragedy of preventable road collisions involving HGVs and we will be strengthening our life-saving direct vision standards in 2024.”

Derek Rees, Programme Director for CLOCS, said:

“In the last five years, over 28,000 fatal and personal injury collisions occurred between Vulnerable Road Users and vehicles commonly used in construction on Britain’s roads.

‘The Direct Vision Standard makes a massive contribution as it ensures direct eye contact between the driver and the pedestrians, cyclists and more – critical to prevent collisions and build community confidence in active travel.

“CLOCS (Construction Logistics and Community Safety) drives collaboration between regulators, construction clients, principal contractors and fleet operators to raise standards through planning and procurement; its “Clear Dash, Safe Cab” campaign further supports the DVS.”

Higher Standards Going Forward

TfL is working with the EU and other cities to mandate direct vision in vehicle design and safety regulations.

In October 2024, standards will tighten and the minimum DVS star rating will be 3-stars and above.

All HGVs below 3-stars will need to feature a progressive safe system that takes into account any additional technology or safety equipment not currently available.

It is the aim of TfL and the London Mayor to cut the number of HGVs and vans entering central London in the morning peak by 10% by 2026. Currently, around 150,000 HGVs enter London each year.

How Can Cambrian Help?

Through our partnership with Trakm8, we provide solutions that could help you achieve higher ratings for your fleet vehicles. They also demonstrate to your customers your commitment to road safety.