Cycle safety for HGV drivers

The London Borough of Hackney has introduced an HGV driver training scheme focusing on cyclist awareness. As well as classroom discussions, drivers will gain first-hand perspective on cycling in the Hackney area, with participants heading out to cycle the roads with National Standard cycling instructors. Hackney Council is offering the free course to any freight or HGV drivers travelling through the borough.

Trevor Parsons, the London Cycling Campaign coordinator is “particularly looking forward to this training reaching construction-related haulage firms, whose vehicles are disproportionately involved in serious and fatal collisions.” If successful, the free scheme could also be rolled out for HGV and freight drivers across the UK, with London also likely to see the safety benefits during the 2012 Olympics.