The Lorry Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a new safety initiative introduced by Transport for London (TfL) to improve road safety for vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, by reducing the blind spots around large goods vehicles (LGVs). The DVS aims to make roads safer for everyone and reduce the number of collisions involving LGVs in urban areas.
The DVS requires all HGVs over 12 tonnes entering or operating in Greater London to obtain a safety permit that meets certain requirements. The key requirement of the DVS is that all lorries must have a specified level of direct vision from the driver’s cab, ensuring that the driver has a clear line of sight of vulnerable road users around the vehicle.
In order to comply with the DVS, all vehicles must meet a minimum one-star rating, with a higher star rating indicating a better field of direct vision. Vehicles that do not meet the minimum one-star rating will be required to install additional safety features, such as cameras, sensors, and audible warning systems, to mitigate blind spots and improve visibility.
The DVS also introduces a Safe System approach, which includes features such as blind spot cameras, audible warning systems, sideguards, and mirrors to help improve the safety of vulnerable road users in the vicinity of LGVs. By implementing these additional safety features, the risk of accidents involving LGVs and vulnerable road users can be significantly reduced.
The DVS is not only beneficial for road safety but also for the environment. By reducing the number of accidents involving LGVs, the DVS helps to minimize traffic congestion and air pollution, as well as contribute to a more sustainable and efficient transport system in urban areas.
In order to obtain a safety permit under the DVS, operators must ensure that their vehicles meet the required standards and submit an application to TfL. The application process includes providing evidence of compliance with the DVS requirements, such as certification of the vehicle’s direct vision, installation of additional safety features, and completion of driver training programs.
Once a safety permit is obtained, operators are required to display a DVS permit sticker on their vehicles to demonstrate compliance with the standard. Failure to comply with the DVS requirements may result in fines or penalties for operators, as well as potential restrictions on operating in Greater London.
The DVS is a positive step towards improving road safety and protecting vulnerable road users in urban areas. By requiring LGVs to meet a minimum level of direct vision, the DVS helps to reduce the risk of accidents and fatalities involving large goods vehicles, making roads safer for everyone.
In addition to the DVS, TfL is also working on other initiatives to improve road safety, such as the introduction of new cycling infrastructure, pedestrian safety measures, and traffic management schemes. These initiatives aim to create a safer and more sustainable transport system in Greater London, with a focus on reducing the number of accidents and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
Overall, the Lorry Direct Vision Standard is an important safety initiative that aims to make roads safer for vulnerable road users and reduce the number of accidents involving LGVs in urban areas. By improving the direct vision of drivers and implementing additional safety features, the DVS helps to create a safer and more sustainable transport system for everyone.