Around half (52%) of fleet operators are willing to fit proximity sensors to their vehicles to help protect vulnerable road users, according to a survey by Track Compare.
The poll was held shortly after road safety charity Brake called on operators of every type and size of vehicle to minimise blind-spot risk.
Laura Woods, research and information officer at Brake, said: "Employers and drivers have a key role to play in making our streets safer for walking and cycling and preventing tragedies.
“Addressing and managing the risks caused by blind spots, and ensuring drivers are manoeuvring with the utmost care, is essential.”
Many respondents could see the benefit of fitting proximity sensors. Comments included:
"I'd use proximity sensors to protect my insurance premium more than anything."
"Yes, if it would benefit the business."
"Yes, if it stops all the claims in accidents."
"If it saves lives, then why wouldn’t you?"
"If it’s something we are thinking about, actually, at the moment.”
But others were concerned about cost:
"No, it would cost too much to implement."
"Wouldn't want to pay for them."
"Depends on cost."
"This could be something we look at. However, we don’t have the budget, and what benefit would it have to us?"
John - 14/07/2014 13:43
If there is such a requirement for all HGV's to spend money to try to save lives, would it not be a good idea for each bike to be sold to have valid insurance, a recognised national cycle test, helmets and lights to be fitted as compulsory and for vunerable road users to be fined / cycle licence to be revoked until the user is retrianed ??