There are millions of heavy good vehicles (HGVs) a year making vital journeys to help keep Britain running.

The problem? Too many car and van drivers don’t understand how much – or little – HGV drivers can actually see when a car is attempting to pass them.

It’s why National Highways has launched a new campaign to educate drivers about HGV blind spots.

Multi zone

These blind spots are the zones where a lorry driver cannot see your vehicle as you line up to pass before overtaking and then slipping in front of the HGV.

While a recent survey by National Highways revealed that nearly three quarters of drivers take extra care when overtaking an HGV, over a third did not know how many blind spots a lorry driver had and 36% felt nervous when passing trucks.

Blind spots revealed

The new campaign highlights that HGV drivers have four zones of ‘limited visibility’. These are at the front, back and on both sides, especially as you move towards the front of the truck. Even with the massive wing mirrors that lorries have now, such blind spots still remain.

National Highways’ official advice is to pass quickly and safely in accordance with the Highway Code. Importantly, you should not linger next to a HGV as they may have no idea you’re even there.

Also, never tailgate a lorry – when you are directly behind one, the driver has no idea you’re there. Once you have overtaken the lorry, don’t pull in right in front of them either as they still won’t be able to see you.

“Driving a lorry is very different to driving a car. You can’t see anything behind you other than the trailer. Your only vision is in front of you and in the side mirrors. You don’t know if someone is immediately behind you, and they can’t see what is ahead of your HGV or if you are going to have to brake sharply for any reason.”
• Shannan Paterson, HGV Training Midlands and star of BBC’s Queen of Trucks.

Be aware

National Highways is airing its new campaign on radio as well featuring it on TV, streaming video, social media, and more. Check out the campaign ad here.

Know Your Code

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