The government is considering the case for peak-hour bans on HGV’s in cities. In response the Freight Transport Association (FTA) says a ban isn’t the right way to improve vulnerable road user safety.
David Cameron has said he will ask the Transport Secretary (Patrick McLoughlin) to investigate several measures that might improve cyclist safety, including possible HGV bans.
But we think the government should consider these points:
- It would take 10 vans to replace a medium-sized lorry – which means more traffic increasing emissions and congestion and increasing rather than reducing safety issues.
- Customers need goods at the start of the working day – which is why early deliveries are made at this time.
- While cyclists are vulnerable in the early rush hour pedestrian traffic increases later in the morning so forcing deliveries outside morning peak time would just increase the danger for pedestrians.
We think there are a number of measures that could make busy city roads safer.
- Increase enforcement against HGVs and drivers that do not comply with safety regulations
- Improve road infrastructure, particularly at junctions
- Create incentives to make lorries use and fit better visibility possibly with government grants towards the cost.
- Allowing deliveries outside the peak times, like the London Lorry Control Scheme (that ends at 7am each morning)
- Improvement of safety standards for vehicle equipment
- Better training and awareness courses for drivers
It is worth remembering the number of HGVs involved in fatalities in the UK has halved in the last 12 years, but as always we agree improvements can be made and support positive change.