Lorry drivers are being urged to exercise extreme caution on the roads this winter, as a new study has revealed the most dangerous driving manoeuvres for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). The warning comes after data analysis from Ovoko, an online car parts marketplace, highlighted the increased risks associated with winter driving conditions for larger vehicles.
The study, which reviewed road traffic accident data from the Department for Transport between 2013 and 2022, identified slowing or stopping as the most hazardous manoeuvre for HGV drivers. On average, 349 accidents occur each year as a result of HGVs either slowing down or coming to a halt. As lorries are significantly heavier than cars, their stopping distances can be 50% greater under normal conditions. This risk is exacerbated in wet or icy weather, where stopping distances can double, creating a heightened danger during the colder months.
As the UK braces for a winter predicted to be wetter and colder than usual, with more snow and heavy rainfall expected, HGV drivers are being reminded of the importance of taking extra precautions when on the road.
The top five riskiest manoeuvres for HGV drivers, according to the study, include slowing or stopping, turning right, and changing lanes to both the left and the right. Negotiating right-hand bends also featured prominently in the rankings. These findings are particularly relevant as weather conditions deteriorate, increasing the likelihood of skidding and reduced visibility on the roads.
The Top 5 Riskiest Manoeuvres for HGV Drivers:
- Slowing or stopping – 349 average yearly collisions
- Turning right – 261 average yearly collisions
- Changing lane to left – 255 average yearly collisions
- Changing lane to right – 241 average yearly collisions
- Going ahead on a right-hand bend – 200 average yearly collisions
While slowing or stopping is the most dangerous manoeuvre for HGVs, it is also the second riskiest manoeuvre for all types of vehicles, contributing to 15,641 accidents each year across the UK. However, the most dangerous manoeuvre for all vehicles is turning right, which causes an average of 21,347 accidents annually.
Top 5 Riskiest Manoeuvres for All Vehicles:
- Turning right – 21,347 average yearly collisions
- Slowing or stopping – 15,641 average yearly collisions
- Waiting to go (held up) – 12,402 average yearly collisions
- Moving off from a stationary position – 10,102 average yearly collisions
- Going ahead on a right-hand bend – 7,739 average yearly collisions
At the other end of the spectrum, the safest manoeuvre identified in the study is waiting to turn left, which resulted in just 1,065 collisions on average each year.
Vytas Palovis, VP of Growth at Ovoko, commented on the findings: “Lorry drivers undergo rigorous training to ensure they are fully aware of the dangers posed by certain manoeuvres. However, other road users, including car drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, may not be as knowledgeable about these risks. This data serves as a crucial reminder for all road users to remain vigilant, especially as we head into a potentially treacherous winter.”
With winter weather on the horizon, all drivers are being urged to take extra care on the roads, particularly when sharing them with HGVs.