Direct Vision Standard for HGVs to reduce road danger and save lives
TfL has strengthened the requirements for its “world-leading” Direct Vision Standard (DVS), which is playing a vital role in helping to save the lives of vulnerable road users in the capital. DVS measures how much an HGV driver can see directly through their cab windows and sets minimum standards, to promote visibility and safe driving practices. TfL is now strengthening the minimum safety requirements for vehicles in the capital to reduce the level of risk that HGVs can pose to all road users, especially people walking and cycling.
HGVs over 12 tonnes will now require a minimum three-star DVS rating or to fit an updated system of enhanced safety features – the Progressive Safe System (PSS) – to operate in Greater London. Operators will receive a penalty charge notice of up to £550 if they operate an HGV over 12 tonnes in Greater London without a valid HGV safety permit, or do not meet the permit conditions. TfL has introduced these changes to further enhance the safety standards of HGVs operating in the capital, helping them to reduce road danger for everyone.
The DVS and HGV Safety Permit Scheme is a key part of the Mayor of London’s Vision Zero plan to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s transport network, and this next phase of the scheme harnesses new technology to make London’s roads safer. The PSS has been designed specifically to eliminate the most common causes of fatal collisions between an HGV and those who walk and cycle where vision is a factor, such as when a vehicle moves off from stationary or is turning left.
TfL data shows that the DVS is already saving the lives of vulnerable road users. In 2023, there was a 62 per cent reduction in the number of fatal collisions involving an HGV, compared to the 2017-19 baseline, as well as reductions in serious injuries. However, more work is needed to keep Londoners safe. Six people were killed and 32 people were seriously injured in collisions involving HGVs in 2023, with devastating consequences for families, friends and communities.
The capital’s DVS is a world first and is having an impact across the UK and EU. The work TfL has undertaken with manufacturers has already seen the EU incorporate direct vision into safety standards. The European Commission expects that this, along with other safety measures being introduced, will save an estimated 25,000 lives by 2038.
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