PROBLEM: Cyclists among the vulnerable
Road safety charity Brake are offering guidance to help fleets prevent crashes with pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists by addressing blind spots.
The publication – ‘Protecting vulnerable road users from vehicle blind spots’ – aims to reduce risky manoeuvring and raise awareness of the issue among drivers, and includes expert insights, best practice case studies and sample advice sheets.
It has been published through Brake’s Fleet Safety Forum in conjunction with insurers Aviva.
In 2012, 866 cyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists were killed and 13,781 were seriously injured on UK roads.
Brake claim such road users are particularly vulnerable to vehicles manoeuvring, as they are more easily missed in drivers’ blind spots.
Indeed, 75% of cyclist collisions in Britain occur at or near junctions.
The guidance report advises fleet managers on steps they can take to reduce the dangers to people on foot and bike, including technology, risk assessments, driver engagement, and vehicle selection.
It includes a case study from a company that have addressed their blind spot risk, and information on technological developments.
The report and driver advice sheets are available for free to Brake subscribers, can be purchased for £5 by non-subscribers or will be available for free to Aviva’s commercial customers.
Laura Woods, Research and Information Officer at Brake, said: “Brake believes people have a right to be able to walk and cycle without being endangered.
“Employers and drivers have a key role to play in making our streets safer for walking and cycling and preventing tragedies.
“Addressing and managing the risks caused by blind spots, and ensuring drivers are manoeuvring with the utmost care, is essential.
“This report sets out vital steps managers should take – whatever types of vehicles they run – to minimise blind spots and ensure drivers know how they can best protect vulnerable road users.
“Our subscribers have already been sent their copy; we’d urge other employers to order theirs today and ensure they’re operating in line with our best practice recommendations.”
