07/10/2020
Direct Vision Standard: What do you need to know?
From the 26th October 2020, all HGVs weighing more than 12 tonnes GVW entering or operating in Greater London need to hold a valid safety permit, following the introduction of the new Direct Vision Standard (DVS).
Designed to protect vulnerable road users, the permit application process (which opened on 28 October 2019) gives vehicles a star-rating based on how much the driver can see from the cab. If your vehicles do not meet the minimum rating, Transport for London will not issue a free permit.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, permit enforcement will not begin until March 2021 at the earliest, but vehicles will still need to comply with the rules.
When the rules come into force, vehicle owners that fail to comply may be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice of £550 (which will be reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days).
The scheme will ultimately be enforced across Greater London, 24 hours a day, 7-days a week.
Will DVS affect my insurance?
There are concerns within the haulage industry regarding how non-compliant vehicles will be treated by insurers in the event of a road traffic incident, questioning and whether insurance claims may be invalidated.
DVS is a legal requirement, so it is natural for operators to have these concerns.
As an independent insurance broker, we have relationships with all leading motor fleet insurers, and work with many national haulage operators. As such, we have undertaken research to learn more about how it will affect our clients.
The insurers approached indicated that non-compliance with DVS standards will NOT negatively impact claims because there are no claims conditions that refer to compliance with Traffic Orders.
At this time, there are no insurance concerns, but we will stay close to developments and provide updates as necessary.
Want to discuss your Haulage Insurance?
If you would like to discuss DVS and how it affects your policy in greater detail – or if you need any insurance advice – please get in touch.
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