Get Ready for “Cycle to Work Day”

The HGV Training Centre is one of the largest and most reputable providers of professional driver training in the UK. From operating facilities in London to providing HGV training in the Isle of Wight, we cover nearly every region regardless of its traffic volume and industry level. In that regard, we consider ourselves experts of sorts when it comes to training drivers for different types of conditions. In light of that, we want to encourage professional drivers to be prepared for the upcoming Cycle to Work Day. Those who drive in London need to be especially prepared.

Fleet New UK is reporting that Transport for London (TfL) is strongly urging city residents to set aside their usual means of commuting on Thursday 3 September and ride a bicycle to work instead. Those who want to participate despite not owning bicycles will have free access to Santander Cycles for the day. That access can be obtained by visiting the official event website. TfL is also reminding businesses with a staff of five or more that they are eligible for up to £10,000 in incentives if they are willing to encourage cycling among their employees.

Slow down and Be Careful

Safety around pedestrians and cyclists is something we routinely talk about at the HGV Training Centre. However, on Cycle to Work Day, the safety first mindset is even more important. Drivers need to be aware they will encounter a larger number of cyclists than normal throughout the day; the greatest number will be observed at the peak commute times in the morning and evening. Increased cyclist volumes will probably be found in all the UK’s major cities.

We want to encourage drivers to slow down and take their time so as to prevent as many accidents as possible. If you are travelling through London, please bear in mind the difficulty of sharing the road with cyclists in congested conditions. Before making left-hand turns, make sure to look out the windows and check your mirrors carefully. Also, be sure to keep your mind focused on the task at hand so that you can keep track of any cyclists who might be operating near your vehicle.

Cycle to Work Day is a great opportunity for our industry to show we can share city streets with cyclists safely. There is no need to be afraid of HGVs if both drivers and cyclists pay attention and use good common sense. A successful and accident-free day would go a long way toward improving relations between drivers and cyclists.

Train for Your License

The HGV Training Centre provides high-quality HGV training in the Isle of Wight along with nearly four dozen additional facilities scattered throughout the UK. We can provide the training you need to earn your professional licence, a licence that will enable you to drive a lorry, box truck, tipper truck, coach, bus, or other heavy commercial vehicle. Please contact us for more information about classes, location, and pricing.

Sources:

1. Fleet News UK – https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/fleet-industry-news/2015/08/28/transport-for-london-encourages-residents-to-take-part-in-national-cycle-to-work-day