Drivers urged to be aware of sideswiping
20 August 2007
- Foreign lorries have offside blindspot
- Can't always see cars overtaking them
- Drivers asked to be vigilant for such lorries
Drivers are being urged to be more aware of foreign lorries on UK roads to avoid 'sideswiping' incidents.
There are over 1000 such incidents each year, where drivers of left-hand-drive lorries can't see cars that are overtaking them and move out, causing a sideways collision.
The warning comes from the Freight Transport Association (FTA), one of a number of bodies including the Highways Agency, that are participating in National Motorway Month (August 6-31) to encourage safer motorway driving.
The FTA's Geoff Dossetter said: 'Car drivers should be alert to lorries' special needs, particularly at junctions and roundabouts.'
'Look out for foreign numberplates. Take special care when close by a foreign lorry and, after checking your own mirrors, be prepared to accelerate, decelerate or change lane quickly if the need arises.'
To combat the problem, the Highways Agency has been handing out special Fresnel lenses to foreign lorry drivers entering the UK at Dover.
These lenses are placed on the passenger-side window of HGVs, and give the driver a magnified view of overtaking vehicles.
Derek Turner, director of traffic operations for the Highways Agency, said: 'The early indicators are that these have a benefit in reducing sideswiping incidents.'
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