National Highways is leading a new campaign to boost motorway safety by reminding all young road users of the dangers of riding and driving around heavy goods vehicles (HGVs)
Data shows that road users under 30 years old account for a quarter of all car and van drivers killed or seriously injured in collisions involving HGVs. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable around HGVs.
In response, National Highways has joined forces with RED Driver Training to encourage young road users – and especially young bike riders – to know the HGV danger zones and follow essential safety tips.
It’s important for bikers to remember that HGVs have four major areas of limited vision, and as a result there are three points to remember when travelling near to HGVs:
- Overtake with care: When overtaking, move past the HGV safely and steadily. Don't linger alongside and return to the left lane only when it's safe to do so. Never cut in.
- Avoid tailgating: Following too closely means the HGV driver can't see you, and you won't have time to react if they brake suddenly.
- Be visible: Make it easy for HGV drivers to see you by staying out of their blind spots and using indicators clearly and early.
Motorcyclists should also always be wary of windsheer when overtaking HGVs on the motorway. On windy days, as a motorbike passes an HGV it can be buffeted quite hard as it emerges from the larger vehicle’s shadow, causing the bike to destabilise and the rider to lose control.
Colin Stevenson, road safety information lead at National Highways, said:
"Riding near large vehicles like HGVs can be intimidating. That's why we're urging everyone to understand how to stay safe around them. Knowing the blind spots, giving HGVs space, and staying visible can make all the difference in helping everyone get to their destination safely."
