Direct Vision Scheme – Have you Registered?

Are you responsible for one of the 250,000 trucks over 12 tonne GVW who go into Greater London?

If so, then you need to read on!

The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is the first legislation of its kind to be applicable for vehicles over 12 tonne in Greater London, aimed at improving road safety of HGV’s.

The purpose of the standard is to improve safety on London roads as evidence has shown HGV’s are involved in a disproportionately large amount of collisions with vulnerable road users, especially cyclists, due to the poor vision from conventional truck cabs.

The Direct Vision star rating is based solely on how much a driver can see from the cab through the windows.  Vehicles will be required to have a minimum of 1-star Direct Vision rating leading up to 3 stars by October 2024, otherwise they will be banned unless they have a ‘progressive’ safe system fitted.

Jan Evans, Managing Director of Jets GPS, Blackburn explains the mandatory equipment to be fitted to a vehicle would include mirrors, side guards, camera, ultrasonic sensors, audible warning system and signage on the read of the vehicle.  Many vehicles who already have Silver or Gold FORS status will probably be compliant with the safe systems however permits will still need to be applied for.

Whilst there is some investment required in upgrading the equipment to be fitted to a vehicle the actual cost of the permit is free of charge.  Failure to comply could result in fines of £550 per day per vehicle for the operator as well as a fine for the driver.

Jan expressed his concern over meeting the demand, due to only 10% of vehicles having been issued with a permit as of May 2020.  His concerns lie around the availability of fitters as many are already fully booked at the weekends and into the evenings with a view of avoiding operational clashes.

The DVS commences in October 2020 covering the same geographical area as the existing Low Emission Zone and will be enforced by Transport for London as of Feb 2021.

If you would like to find out more about whether your vehicles have the required minimum equipment or further information about the cost of the equipment, then please contact us for further guidance.