Since October 2024, the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rules have become stricter, requiring HGVs over 12 tonnes to meet a minimum three-star rating or install a DVS Progressive Safe System to operate in Greater London. While the DVS system is designed to improve road safety, it also gives fleet operators an opportunity to enhance visibility, reduce accidents, and improve operational efficiency.
Rather than just ticking compliance boxes, investing in a DVS camera system can make fleets safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective. Here’s how DVS standards keep fleets on the right side of the law and deliver tangible business benefits.
Understanding The DVS System
The DVS is a Transport for London (TfL) initiative to reduce HGV blind spots to improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users. The DVS system assigns HGVs a star rating from 0 to 5 based on how much the driver can see directly from the cab without relying on mirrors or cameras.
- 0-star vehicles: These have poor direct vision and cannot operate in London without a DVS Progressive Safe System.
- 1-2 stars: These vehicles previously met the minimum standard but, as of October 2024, now require additional safety measures.
- 3-5 stars: These vehicles have good direct vision and meet the updated DVS standards without needing modifications.
Key Components of a DVS Progressive Safe System
For 0-2 star-rated HGVs, compliance now requires installing a DVS Progressive Safe System, which consists of the following:
- A camera monitoring system (CMS) to eliminate near-side blind spots.
- A moving-off information system (MOIS) to detect and alert drivers to road users directly in front of the vehicle.
- A blind spot information system (BSIS) to warn drivers of pedestrians and cyclists when turning left.
- Audible warnings to alert vulnerable road users when the vehicle is turning.
- Warning signs advising pedestrians and cyclists to avoid blind spots.
- Side under-run safety bars fitted to prevent road users from being pulled under the vehicle, where practical.
Fleet operators can equip their HGVs with Crystal Ball’s Direct Vision Standard Kit London Progressive Safe System (PSS) to achieve compliance.
Going Beyond DVS Compliance with Fleet Safety Technology
Investing in a DVS system is just the beginning. Fleet operators looking to further enhance safety and efficiency are adopting additional technologies that complement DVS requirements.
One such innovation is Crystal Ball’s Smart 4G Dash Cam, which provides:
- Real-Time Monitoring – Fleet operators can access live vehicle footage, enabling immediate response to potential incidents.
- Driver Behaviour Analysis – AI-powered monitoring tracks driving patterns and identifies risky behaviours, allowing for targeted driver training.
- Incident Documentation – High-quality video evidence supports accurate accident reporting and reduces liability risks and insurance disputes.
How DVS Reduces Accidents and Improves Road Safety
Blind spots are a leading cause of HGV accidents, particularly in urban environments where pedestrians and cyclists are most vulnerable. Large vehicles with restricted direct vision struggle to detect road users in close proximity, increasing the risk of serious collisions.
A recent Fleet News article quoted Tim Rankin, Managing Director of the AA’s Accident Assist, as saying that over the past five years, blind spots restricting the view of drivers have been a factor in 63 road deaths and more than 1,100 serious injuries.
By investing in a DVS camera system, fleet operators can:
- Give drivers a clearer view of their surroundings, reducing blind spot-related collisions.
- Alert both drivers and road users to potential hazards with proximity sensors and audible warnings.
- Improve driver confidence, particularly in congested city areas where vulnerable road users are most at risk.
Operational Efficiency: How DVS Enhances Fleet Performance
Beyond compliance, a DVS system can also bring measurable business benefits:
Reduced Vehicle Downtime
Every accident, no matter how minor, can result in expensive repairs and vehicle downtime. By improving visibility and reducing collisions, DVS cameras help keep fleets on the road.
Less Time Spent on Incident Management
When a DVS camera system is in place, drivers are less likely to be involved in collisions. That means fewer accident reports to file, fewer phone calls to insurers, and less disruption to your operations. For busy fleet operators, saving time can significantly improve overall productivity.
DVS Penalties: What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Since October 2024, it’s been a legal requirement for 0–2 star-rated HGVs to be fitted with a DVS Progressive Safe System before entering Greater London. The consequences can be costly if a vehicle doesn’t meet the standard.
Fleet operators face a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of up to £550 per day, reduced to £275 if paid within 14 days. If the PCN is not paid within 28 days, the charge increases to £825. These charges can stack up fast, especially for businesses with multiple vehicles on the road.
TfL is also stepping up DVS enforcement. Non-compliant vehicles can be flagged through ANPR cameras, CCTV monitoring, and roadside inspections. Operators who ignore fines could face further enforcement, including charge recovery proceedings and bailiff action if penalties go unpaid.
Staying Safe on the Road
The Direct Vision Standard is more than just a legal requirement; it’s an opportunity for fleets to improve safety, reduce accidents, and enhance efficiency. By investing in a DVS system and advanced fleet monitoring technology, operators can ensure compliance, protect their drivers, and reduce costs associated with collisions and downtime.
If you’re looking to upgrade your fleet’s DVS system with AI-powered safety solutions, contact us today to explore how Crystal Ball’s technology can help.