Friday, 25 April 2014

Road Safety

This article is based on my personal opinion and has not been discussed with the police or safety experts 

Police brought a large Lorry cabin to Tolworth Broadway's round about to demonstrate the restricted view from a Lorry and the effect it has on the driver.

The idea is great and I am very much in favour, because the knowledge will help to avoid accidents.

A quick Summary which applies to motorists and cyclists alike:

  1. Do not overtake a lorry on  any side, when approaching a corner or a bend in the road. The lorry driver needs the extra room to negotiate round abouts, bends and turns in the road.
  2. Even when you are on a straight road, remember the long vehicle can only see you through his/her wing mirror
  3. Beware the dead angle, so it helps to move into the "other" or "spare" lane well before you start overtaking the lorry (the longer the vehicle, the more vulnerable you are). There is no harm in turning your headlights on during day light hours. It will act as a warning sign to alert the lorry driver. 
  4. You (cyclists, motor cyclists and normal car drivers) are more vulnerable than the lorry driver.