EXPERT: Sally Hubble, of Signs Express
In our latest Expert Blog, Sally Hubble, of Signs Express, addresses the positives of investing in high-visibility livery…
It’s that time of year when the nights are really drawing in.
It’s cold and dark when we leave for work and it’s cold and dark when we come home from work.
Let’s face it – it’s miserable out there.
And with the darkness comes the age old issue of visibility on the roads.
We’re all aware of Chapter 8 and the road safety and high visibility markings legislations, but are we putting in to practice what they preach?
And although Chapter 8 only applies to vehicles that intentionally stop on high speed roads, I believe that conspicuous markings are something that all fleets should seriously consider, and here’s why:
1) High visibility markings have been proven to reduce night time collisions by up to 40%
2) They therefore increase both your employees and your vehicles road safety
3) Enhances your reputation as a responsible and caring corporation
You might be of the belief that because your vehicles aren’t operated at night then high visibility markings are not necessary, but in these long, drawn out winter days I’d urge you to reconsider.
With the sun setting earlier and earlier I don’t believe there is one business out there who operates on the system of working from sunrise to sundown in the winter months (and if there is, please pass on my CV to them, would be lovely to start late and leave early between now and Spring), so vehicles will be spending a few hours each day driving in low visibility conditions – whatever your industry.
With this in mind, it really is worth considering the application of reflective chevrons.
The initial cost for the graphics to be correctly applied could actually save you considerable money compared to the costs in repairs you may have to fork out because of road traffic accidents and damage to your vehicles (not to mention insurance premiums rising in the light of a claim).
Remember; it’s important to choose a signage company who understand the legislation and can advise on the correct use of both reflective and non-reflective materials.
Ensuring the width and angle of the chevron pattern meets the requirements is often overlooked through lack of knowledge and this can be a costly mistake, so make sure you research your applicator before making an investment.
