A “world-leading” scheme to remove the most dangerous HGVs from London’s streets has been launched.
The Direct Vision Standard is a star system which rates HGVs over 12 tonnes from zero (lowest) to five (highest) based on how much a driver can see directly through their cab windows. HGVs will need to meet a minimum one-star rating by the time enforcement begins to enable them to operate in London, or will need to have “Safe System” measures fitted to improve the vehicle’s safety.
Operators can now apply for a HGV safety permit ahead of enforcement beginning on 26 October 2020. HGV operators who fail to meet these new minimum safety standards and obtain a permit will be issued a penalty charge for driving in the capital.
Figures from Transport for London (TfL) reveal large trucks are disproportionately involved in fatal collisions. Whilst they account for just four percent of the overall miles driven in the capital, between 2015 and 2017 HGVs were involved in 63 percent of fatal collisions involving cyclists and 25 percent involving pedestrians.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has launched the scheme with (TfL) and London councils.
“I’m proud of our world-leading plans to remove the most dangerous lorries from London’s streets,” said Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, who launched the scheme with TfL and London councils. “So many of the tragic deaths on our roads involve HGVs and this new scheme will help save lives.
“Forward-looking businesses have already been choosing safer vehicles in the run up to HGV safety permits becoming available. The scheme has gone live and operators now have 12 months to upgrade their fleets, helping make our streets much safer for people walking and cycling.”
Operators can apply for safety permits via tfl.gov.uk/direct-vision-permit
