Every year, the UK roads get busier.
With more drivers on the road, there is more congestion building up in certain areas of the UK. This can also mean more drivers getting frustrated, overwhelmed or complacent on the road or behind the wheel. Thus, more incidents and collisions occur.
Forgetting some of the core rules regarding driving is common (such as continuously checking your mirrors, or indicating when turning) but Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) drivers must take more care and pay extra attention, as well as being conscious of the restrictions that implies to commercial drivers. But how do LGV drivers handle the limitations faced?
How to Handle Limitations
Because of the rigorous training implemented throughout your journey, you are aware of the damage you can do behind the wheel of a lorry.
But with larger populations comes an increase in other road users. There are more pedestrians and cyclists. And since the pandemic, more have enjoyed the simpler way of commuting.
This poses more threats towards other road users, as well as increase the responsibilities a commercial driver has. It seems as if the more time that passes, the more frequent accidents occur.
The Campaign Supporting Road Users
National Road Victim Month brings awareness to those who have been killed or injured on the road. The month August was designated for the awareness, as Princess Diana was killed on 31st August 1997, and Bridget Driscoll, being the first known death by a motor vehicle on 17th August 1896.
The Stats
Supplied by the Department for Transport (DfT) the top vehicle contributory factor for these collisions in 2022 is that the driver/rider failed to look properly, with a total count of 6,156. Then, reckless and careless driving came second at 2,364. These are big numbers, even for today’s standard. You’d think that in the technological world, many would understand the relevance of proper and safe road use.
Over the period of 2018 and 2022, 8 pedestrians died on average per week. 385 pedestrians were killed in 2022.
It has also been identified that serious injuries were up in 2021. These road incidents, although significantly reduced since 2004, are still happening throughout the country. 58% of pedestrian fatalities involved a single car.
These facts don‘t consider the ramifications in which you, as the vehicle operator would have to face. And those who are injured still have to live with the consequences of the trauma. The recovery process could take months, sometimes years.
The psychological impact of a road collision could be worse than the physical impact. Having to live with the event in your mind is challenging, potentially making the victim change their habits, routine or work.
How 2 Start Combat Unsafe Practices
As an LGV Driver, there are more risks. In the unfortunate event of an accident and let’s say a lorry collides with another road user, the lorry is going to do significantly more damage.
This is why 2 Start reinforce the importance of safe LGV driving throughout our training courses.
Our experienced instructors teach students how you must be extra considerate when out on the road. The visibility in an LGV is significantly reduced, so this makes blind spots larger. The cab of an LGV is also a lot higher up than most vehicles, which means that this also the view in front of you is reduced.
LGV Driving is all about ensuring there is enough space around you to aid in visibility. However, another driver or road user must also be conscious of the limitations LGVs and you, as the driver will face.
Why are road incidents still prominent?
Poor observations/excessive use of electronic devices
In the modern age, the use of mobile phones and electronic devices is a lot more common. You will likely see plenty of individuals on their phone or listening to music walking down the road. Has the excessive use of mobile phones increased the risks on the road?
We can’t assume that this is a direct answer. Although, with more using electronic devices on a regular basis, many more have little awareness to our roads.
Lack of education
Road traffic incidents can happen to anyone at any time. Don’t assume you are an exception. This is why educating yourself on the dangers of roads, as well as what different types of roads, crossings and vehicles there are can help you watch out and keep yourself safe.
Weather
In some cases, weather can play a part in road traffic accidents and collisions. From torrential downpours, to icy weather and reduced visibility. These types of weathers can have detrimental effects towards the increased likelihood of a collision.
What can both drivers and pedestrians do to help with the prevention of these incidents?
Wear bright coloured clothing
This tip is mainly for cyclists, motorbikes and pedestrians. Wearing fluorescent items of clothing in the winter or when you are travelling at night will help drivers see you clearer. You can also wear bright clothing which is just as vibrant at night.
Consider all times of the day and how you are driving
From early in the morning, to more unsociable hours, all drivers need to be vigilant of any pedestrians, cyclists or motor cyclists. Pedestrians could step out in the road abruptly, or a cyclist could be passing on the inside.
You must make sure that you are actively aware at all times.
Drive to the speed limits and conditions of the road
When driving conditions are good, dry and clear, ensure that you only drive to the speed limit. You don’t have to rush to reach your destination, as it is not worth the risk.
Also, remember to take care in adverse weather conditions. Leaving double the gap you normally would when it’s raining, and 10 times more when icy or reduced vision (such as fog).
Final Thoughts
To ensure safety on the roads, pedestrians and drivers should follow the Highway Code. They should also stay aware of their surroundings and use mirrors to check for other vehicles.
Even more so as an LGV driver, ensuring that road users are aware of the reduced vision these drivers have on the road, including being much higher up and having larger blind spots, will benefit all drivers and reduce the stress that LGV drivers could face when anticipating reduced visibility.
If you are an LGV driver, you can also read our other post on the HGV driving Do’s and don’ts, and learn how you as a driver can reinforce safe practices in your work.
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