London’s lorry vision standard saves lives

New data from Transport for London (TfL) shows a dramatic drop in casualties involving large lorries following the introduction of the world-leading Direct Vision Standard (DVS). 

The scheme, which requires Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) to eliminate dangerous blind spots, has resulted in a 51 per cent reduction in the number of vulnerable road users (people walking, cycling, or motorcycling) killed or seriously injured in collisions with HGVs (over 12 tonnes) in 2024 compared to the 2017-2019 baseline. 

Furthermore, the average number of deaths in these collisions has fallen by 37 per cent since the DVS was enforced. The DVS is a core component of the Mayor’s Vision Zero strategy and has had significant policy influence, with the European Union incorporating direct vision requirements into its updated vehicle safety standards for heavy vehicles.