Time running out to respond to HGV direct vision plan
Consultation on the London mayor’s plan for a HGV direct vision scheme is due to close on 24th January.
The proposal is that all HGVs over 12 tonnes would have to hold a safety permit to operate in Greater London from 2020.
Vehicles would be rated according to the driver’s direct vision of cyclists and pedestrians in close proximity. They would be given a rating between ‘zero-star’ (lowest) and ‘five-star’ (highest). Only those vehicles rated ‘one star’ and above would be allowed to enter of operate in London from 2020.
Zero rated vehicles would only be allowed if they can prove compliance through safe system measures. By 2024 only ‘three-star’ rated vehicles and above would automatically be given a safety permit.
HGVs rated two star and below would need to demonstrate increased safety through progressive safe system measures.
Mayor Sadiq Khan argues that HGVs in 2015 were responsible for 78 per cent of fatal collisions with cyclists, and 20 per cent of fatal collisions with pedestrians despite coving only four per cent of the overall miles driven in London.
Following this consultation, Transport for London will put forward final proposals for statutory consultation in the spring/summer of 2018.