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Free Fresnels are handed out in attempt to end sideswiping
Page 10
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The Highways Agency hopes that distributing Fresnei lenses to drivers at ports will help prevent blind-spot accidents. Chris Tindall reports.
THE HIGHWAYS Agency and Vosa are trialling a special type of magnifying window lens that they hope will eliminate accidents caused by blind spots on left-handdrive trucks.
In 2005 there were 1,164 'sideswiping' accidents — caused when an LGV driver attempts to change lanes and collides with a vehicle travelling alongside it. Transport Minister Dr Stephen Ladynaan says the government is determined to tackle the prob le m,which mostly affects left-hand-drive vehicles.
Last week about 40,000 Fresnel lenses were being handed out free to UK-bound drivers at Coquettes. Dunkirk and Calais in France with instructions on how to use them in five languages.
Intended to remedy the blindspot problem by offering drivers a wider field of vision. they are expected to reduce the number of sideswiping incidents in the southeast of the UK.
A Vosa spokeswoman says the initial response from LGV drivers has been positive and they have been encouraging other drivers to have them fitted.
Ladyman says he hopes the trial will reveal how the lenses might improve truck safety. "As well as being frightening and dangerous for those involved, such incidents can cause frustration. delays and congestion for other drivers.
The Highways Agency says that a report on their performance will be drawn up in spring 2007.
• Watch out for CM's own report on Fresnel lenses in January.