Don’t linger around lorries; know your HGV zones

National Highways has launched a new road safety campaign aimed at educating drivers on how to safely navigate around heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). These large vehicles, including trucks and HGVs, are significantly longer, heavier, and more powerful than standard vehicles, requiring extra caution. Drivers often misjudge the size and position of HGVs, their blind spots, and the stopping distances they need. Due to the substantial weight differences, collisions with HGVs are more likely to result in severe injuries or fatalities. This campaign is designed to raise awareness and knowledge among road users about the blind spots and limitations of HGVs.

Truck drivers face four potential blind spots or zones: the front, rear, and both sides of their vehicle. While lorries are now equipped with additional mirrors as standard, which have enhanced driver visibility, they have not completely eliminated blind spots.

To keep you safe on the road when driving near lorries and other large vehicles, remember these three simple tips:

• Stay Visible: Avoid lingering in HGVs’ blind spots. If you can’t see the vehicle’s external mirrors, the driver likely can’t see you. HGVs have larger blind spots than regular vehicles.

• Pass with Care: Ensure you have enough space to complete your overtaking manoeuvre before committing, as it takes longer to pass a large vehicle. After overtaking, make sure there’s ample room in front of the HGV before pulling in, so the driver can see you and brake safely if needed.

• Know the Zones: HGVs have four areas with limited visibility: the front, back, and both sides. If you’re unaware of these zones, you could be in one without even realising it.

• Leave a large gap: Never tailgate an HGV. It will prevent the HGV driver from seeing you and mean you can’t stop safely if there’s an incident.

IAM RoadSmart’s Chief Examiner Richard Gladman said: “Driving safely around HGVs is crucial due to their size and the potential risks they pose. Always be mindful of their four blind spots: the front, back, and both sides. Remember, if you can’t see the driver in their mirrors, they likely can’t see you. Give HGVs plenty of space by extending your following distance to improve your view, avoid cutting in front of them, and be patient when they are manoeuvring. The motorway and major A-road network managed by National Highways is vital for economic growth, with tens of thousands of lorries relying on it daily to connect products to people and businesses.”

For more information visit https://www.nationalhighways.co.uk/KnowTheHGVZones

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