The HGV Direct Vision Standard, also known as DVS, is a safety standard that aims to reduce the number of accidents involving heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in urban areas. This standard requires all HGVs over 12 tonnes to have a permit showing how much the driver can see directly through the windows of their cab. The goal of the DVS is to improve the visibility of vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, around HGVs and ultimately make roads safer for everyone.
The DVS was introduced in London in 2020 and is part of the larger Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads by 2041. The DVS is a key component of this initiative because HGVs are involved in a disproportionate number of fatal collisions with vulnerable road users. In fact, although they make up only 4% of the traffic in London, HGVs are involved in 63% of fatal collisions with cyclists.
Under the DVS, all HGVs over 12 tonnes must apply for a permit to operate in Greater London. The permit is based on a star rating system, with vehicles receiving one to five stars depending on how much the driver can see directly through the windows of their cab. Vehicles with a one-star rating have the poorest visibility, while those with a five-star rating have the best visibility. HGVs with a zero star rating are banned from operating in Greater London unless they undergo significant safety improvements.
To improve their visibility and obtain a higher star rating, HGV operators can make modifications to their vehicles, such as installing additional windows, cameras, and sensors. These enhancements not only help drivers see better but also alert them to the presence of cyclists and pedestrians in their blind spots. In addition to improving visibility, the DVS also requires HGV operators to fit side guards and sensors to detect vulnerable road users near their vehicles, further reducing the risk of accidents.
The DVS has been successful in reducing the number of fatal collisions involving HGVs in London. Since its introduction, there has been a 43% reduction in the number of fatal collisions between HGVs and cyclists. This is a significant achievement and demonstrates the importance of improving the visibility of HGVs on the road.
While the DVS is currently only mandatory in London, other cities in the UK are considering implementing similar standards to improve road safety. In fact, the government has announced plans to make the DVS a national requirement for all HGVs, with the hope of reducing the number of accidents involving HGVs across the country.
In addition to improving road safety, the DVS also has environmental benefits. By reducing the number of accidents involving HGVs, the DVS helps reduce traffic congestion and air pollution in urban areas. This is important not only for the health and well-being of residents but also for meeting national and international climate change targets.
Overall, the HGV Direct Vision Standard is a crucial safety measure that aims to make roads safer for everyone. By improving the visibility of HGVs and reducing the number of accidents involving vulnerable road users, the DVS is helping to create a more sustainable and resilient transport system. As more cities across the UK and around the world consider implementing similar standards, it is clear that the DVS is a key tool in the fight against road traffic accidents and fatalities.