The Transport for London (TfL) Direct Vision Standard (DVS) is a scheme that aims to improve road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users by reducing the number of blind spots on heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the TfL DVS scheme.
The DVS scheme was introduced in London in March 2021 and requires all HGVs over 12 tonnes to hold a safety permit to operate in Greater London The scheme is part of the Mayor of London’s Vision Zero commitment to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads by 2041.
Under the DVS scheme, vehicles are awarded a star rating based on the amount of direct vision the driver has from the cab HGVs are rated from zero stars (the lowest) to five stars (the highest), with zero-star vehicles having the most significant blind spots Vehicles rated three stars or above are considered safe, while vehicles rated two stars or below will need to be fitted with additional safety equipment before they can receive a permit to operate in London.
To obtain a safety permit under the DVS scheme, HGV operators must first apply for a permit using TfL’s online system The application process requires operators to provide information about their vehicles, including their make, model, registration number, and star rating Operators will also need to provide evidence that any vehicles rated two stars or below have been fitted with the required safety equipment, such as sensors, cameras, and mirrors.
Once a permit is issued, operators must display the permit on their vehicles, and drivers must carry a copy of the permit with them when operating in Greater London Failure to obtain a permit or comply with the DVS requirements can result in fines of up to £550 per incident.
The DVS scheme has been widely praised by road safety advocates, who believe that it will help to reduce the number of collisions involving HGVs and vulnerable road users tfl dvs. According to TfL, around 4,000 collisions involving HGVs occur in London each year, with a disproportionate number of these collisions resulting in serious injury or death.
By improving the visibility of HGV drivers and reducing blind spots, the DVS scheme aims to make London’s roads safer for all road users In addition to the DVS scheme, TfL is also investing in infrastructure improvements, such as segregated cycle lanes and improved pedestrian crossings, to further enhance road safety in the capital.
While the DVS scheme has been largely well-received, some industry groups have raised concerns about the cost of compliance for HGV operators Fitting safety equipment to older vehicles can be expensive, and some operators have questioned whether the benefits of the scheme justify the cost.
To help operators comply with the DVS requirements, TfL has partnered with a number of industry bodies and safety equipment suppliers to offer support and guidance Operators can access resources such as training materials, guidance on fitting safety equipment, and financial assistance to help cover the cost of compliance.
Overall, the TfL DVS scheme represents a significant step forward in improving road safety in London By reducing blind spots on HGVs and making drivers more aware of vulnerable road users, the scheme has the potential to save lives and prevent serious injuries on the capital’s roads.
In conclusion, the TfL DVS scheme is a crucial initiative that aims to improve road safety for all road users in London By requiring HGV operators to obtain safety permits based on their vehicles’ star ratings and ensuring that they comply with the scheme’s requirements, TfL is taking bold steps towards achieving its Vision Zero goal While there are challenges associated with compliance, the benefits of the scheme in terms of saving lives and preventing injuries far outweigh the costs.