Brake, the road safety charity, is urging fleet managers to sign up for a vital seminar on blind spots and manoeuvring.

Preventing crashes with cyclists and pedestrians, takes place on May 28 in Birmingham and aims to address the causes of collisions between cyclists and commercial vehicles.

More than one in ten (13%) cyclist collisions involve commercial vehicles such as trucks, vans, coaches and buses, and these crashes can have a devastating impact on both the cyclist and the driver.

One sixth (16%) of crashes between commercial vehicles and cyclists kill or seriously injure the cyclist, and up to a third of drivers involved in a crash will suffer from psychological problems for up to a year after the collision, even if their physical injuries were minor.

Crashes with cyclists and pedestrians can have enormous human and financial costs for businesses.

Brake's half-day seminar, which is sponsored by Brigade Electronics, will address the risks associated with vehicle blind spots and manoeuvring vehicles, including reversing, which pose a significant hazard to pedestrians and cyclists.

Speakers from the Institute of Mechanical Engineers and the Metropolitan Police will lead the session, looking at current developments relating to these critical issues, including technological solutions such as vehicle-side cameras and additional mirrors, as well as measures such as driver training techniques.

Roslyn Cumming, professional engagement manager at Brake, said: "Addressing the risks associated with vehicle blind spots and manoeuvring vehicles, including reversing, is an essential part of fleet safety policies and procedures.

“In light of these survey results, it has never been more important for fleets to address the costs of road crashes and build a reputation for road safety. I urge managers of all types of fleets, from cars to commercial vehicles, to attend."

Emily Randall, marketing communications at Brigade Electronics, said: "Our demonstration vehicle will be available at the blind spots seminar to enable fleet managers to see the types of technology available, including Smarteye powered by ASL, our NEW intelligent camera monitor system that provides the driver with a 360° bird's-eye view of the vehicle for effortless manoeuvring.”

The seminar will include a live vehicle demonstration, as well as a best practice case study presented by Cemex, including information and practical advice other fleets can take away and implement.

To book your place for £70 + VAT for Brake subscribers (£120 + VAT for non-subscribers) click here or contact Brake at admin@brake.org.uk or call 01484 559909.
 

More articles on: