Improving Pedestrian Safety by removing the Vehicle Blind Spot
Removing vehicle blind spots and improving pedestrian safety is a crucial concern for any city or transportation authority, and it becomes especially important when it comes to large vehicles such as trucks weighing more than 12 tonnes. With these vehicles, the driver’s visibility is limited, and it can be challenging for them to see pedestrians or other vulnerable road users who may be walking or cycling nearby.
To address this issue, pedestrian detection cameras have become an essential safety feature for trucks. These cameras are designed to detect pedestrians and other vulnerable road users in the vehicle’s blind spots, allowing the driver to take appropriate action to avoid accidents.
In recent years, there has been a growing push for transport authorities to mandate the installation of these cameras on large trucks. In the UK, Transport for London (TFL) is leading the charge, having announced its intention to mandate the installation of blind spot cameras on all lorries over 12 tonnes by 2024.
This move by TFL is part of a wider effort to improve road safety for vulnerable road users in London. According to TFL, large vehicles such as lorries are involved in a disproportionate number of fatal accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians.
By requiring trucks to have blind spot cameras, TFL hopes to reduce the number of accidents caused by blind spots and improve the safety of vulnerable road users.
The benefits of pedestrian detection cameras go beyond improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists. These cameras can also help truck drivers to avoid collisions with other vehicles, especially when changing lanes or making turns. They can also help to reduce the risk of damage to the truck or other property, which can be costly for both the driver and the company they work for.
In addition to the safety benefits, the installation of pedestrian detection cameras can also have financial benefits for companies that use large trucks. Many insurance companies offer discounts for vehicles with safety features such as pedestrian detection cameras, as they are seen as lower risk.
In conclusion, the importance of pedestrian detection cameras on trucks weighing more than 12 tonnes cannot be overstated. Not only do these cameras improve safety for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users, but they can also help to prevent collisions with other vehicles and reduce the risk of damage to the truck.
With the move by TFL to mandate these cameras on all lorries over 12 tonnes, we can expect to see a significant improvement in road safety in the coming years.
For more information on our comprehensive range of vehicle safety solutions please click here