Driving In London – Blind Spot Information Systems

In 2021 a scheme was introduced where HGVs over 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight would require a permit to enter Greater London. Operators of relevant vehicles entering the area without a permit can be fined.

The scheme aims to improve safety for vulnerable road users and reduce collisions. Under the scheme, vehicles are allocated a star rating based on how much the driver can see directly through their cab windows. This is known as the Direct Vision Standard and ranges from zero stars (limited vision) to 5 stars (good vision).

Over time it is intended to steadily raise the standards that a vehicle must meet in order to obtain a permit. With effect from October 2024, vehicles with a zero, one or two-star rating have been required to install progressive safe systems in order to obtain a permit.

Progressive safe system requirements include:

• Camera monitoring systems on the nearside of the vehicle to eliminate blind spots
• Suitable mirrors or cameras on the front and nearside of the vehicle
• A blind spot information system (BSIS) to detect vulnerable users down the nearside of the vehicle
• A Moving Off Information System fitted to the front of the vehicle, to warn the driver of the presence of a vulnerable road user in the front blind spot
• Side underrun protection
• Audible warnings when the vehicle is turning left (or turning right for left-hand drive vehicles)
• External warning signage on the vehicle

Where retrofitting systems to older vehicles it is important to ensure compliance with MOT standards. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) have recently published guidance on where BSIS equipment can be installed on a vehicle in order to meet these requirements.

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