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Researchers at Loughborough University have revamped the design of lorry cabs to minimise the size of blind spots, a process that could save the lives of hundreds of cyclists and pedestrians.
In Europe, lorries are involved in about 4,200 fatal road accidents every year and almost 1,000 of these involve cyclists or pedestrians. The Loughborough research, which was co-funded by Transport for London and industry think-tank Transport & Environment, analysed 704 accidents involving lorries. It found that 31% of fatalities were caused by drivers pulling away, 19% by left turns, 7% by right turns, and 25% by drivers reversing. Vehicles changing lanes were responsible for half of accidents, but no fatalities.
The analysis showed that critical blind spots in current lorry models can’t be compensated for by the use of mirrors because of the time lapse between checking them, making observations through the window, and then pulling away.
Researchers designed a ‘Direct Vision’ lorry, which features an 80cm-longer cab with a rounded nose, smaller dashboard, expanded glazed areas and a slightly lowered driver position. It would increase the driver’s field of view in front and to the side of the lorry by 50% compared with current truck designs.
In recent years, truck manufacturers have been focusing on using cameras and mirrors to tackle blind spots. “The problem with cameras is where you put the monitor – nobody knows how to implement that system safely,” said Dr Steve Summerskill, one of the report’s co-authors. “Cameras are being discussed at a European level, but it’s our opinion that if you increase direct vision then you are using the ability of the driver to be able to identify things in close proximity to his vehicle, instead of adding yet another piece of technology in an already heavy-workload environment.”
Summerskill told PE that the university is talking to the manufacturers, but that it could be a while before any of the design concepts are on the road. “Manufacturers have a vehicle lifecycle of about seven years and they will all be at different phases. They have just redesigned their vehicles to meet Euro VI emissions standards and, quite understandably, they are reticent to go through yet another design process.
“Some manufacturers are very positive and want to work with us, to see which of the features they could implement.”
Swedish lorry manufacturer Scania said it has followed the research. Phil Rootham, sales engineer at Scania, said: “The design looks at how to improve direct vision, but it doesn’t address other factors, such as living and sleeping in a cab.”
The ‘Direct Vision’ design has also won support from cycling charities. Roger Geffen, campaigns & policy director of national cycling charity CTC, said: “This new design is what CTC and its partners persuaded MEPs to support earlier this year, only to be blocked by the French and Swedish governments.
“We’re hoping the EU’s dispute resolution processes will allow safer lorries to be built soon, and not get delayed for another eight years.”