A survey conducted by Driver Hire has revealed that HGV drivers don’t think UK motorists understand the skills required to operate an HGV, creating potential safety risks on UK roads.
The survey was conducted amongst Class 1 and Class 2 HGV drivers currently working for Driver Hire’s nationwide network of recruitment offices. The views come from an experienced group of professionals, with almost half of respondents having held an HGV licence for more than 20 years. In total, 168 drivers responded.
Greatest risks on the road
Motorists cutting in (75%), blind spots (71%) and stopping distances (66%) are HGV drivers chief road safety concerns. According to 64% of respondents, the most underestimated aspect of HGV driving is the amount of space large vehicles need to manoeuvre safely.
Just 7% of respondents felt road users understood the profession well.
The findings highlight growing concerns among professional drivers that misconceptions about HGVs are contributing to risky behaviour on UK roads. Nearly eight in ten said driving standards on UK roads have worsened over the past five years, with more than half describing standards as “much worse”.
Making improvements
When asked what single piece of information they would like every motorist to understand about HGVs, the overwhelming response was that all key safety considerations, including blind spots, stopping distances, turning circles and vehicle weight, are equally important.
Rather than calling for tougher penalties, respondents overwhelmingly backed education as the best solution. Many also supported increased practical skills for learner drivers and greater public awareness campaigns to enable them to better understand HGVs.
Many respondents also feel undervalued, with more than half saying HGV drivers are either fairly or very disrespected by the public despite the vital role they play in keeping supply chains moving.
Driver Hire comment
Richard Owen-Hughes, Driver Hire’s Group Marketing Director said, “These findings show there is still a significant gap between what professional drivers experience every day and what many motorists understand about driving around HGVs. Blind spots, stopping distances and turning requirements are not minor issues; they are fundamental safety considerations that drivers encounter on every journey.”
“The positive message from this survey is that HGV drivers believe education is the answer. By helping motorists better understand how large vehicles operate, we can improve safety for everyone who uses the UK’s roads.”