LBH&F News: Free CPC training now available

Cycle-lorry danger awareness campaign

Never cycle on the inside of a lorry

The road safety team at H&F is putting a spotlight on the dangers faced by cyclists sharing London roads with large lorries. This is because approximately half of all cyclists killed in London involve collision with lorries, even though lorries make up just 5% of London traffic. Many of these fatalities happen as the lorry turns left at a junction, trapping the cyclist on the inside.

The approach is called Changing Places and is aimed both at cyclists and lorry drivers. The aim is to get cyclists into the cab of a lorry, and lorry drivers onto bikes, so that each gets a better view of the other’s perspective.

Cyclists

Cyclists are invited to visit a h&f lorry cab and talk to the driver, then spend 10-15 minutes with a cycling instructor who talks them through, with visual demonstrations, the issues of visibility and correct positioning, blind spots, mirrors. Meanwhile a professional mechanic will perform a free Dr Bike check-up and service on your bike. Free maps and puncture kits available too!

Lorry drivers

We are also training lorry drivers. Our one-day Safer London Driving course is now Driver CPC certified and has a new name. The day starts with a classroom session in which drivers are encouraged to empathise with cyclists through discussion – a structured, interactive session led by an experienced urban cycle instructor.

Course delivery

The Safe Urban Driving course focuses on driving in London and vulnerable road users, including cyclists. Funded by TfL and LBH&F, this accredited course includes practical on-road cycle training for drivers and will count towards the 35 hours DPC that professional lorry drivers need to complete by September 2014.

The course consists of two 3.5 hour modules, one classroom based and one practical module where drivers can get on bikes and get a cyclists view of the road. Up to 20 drivers can attend each session, and the course can be held at any suitable location (subject to site approval).

This is an excellent opportunity to receive DCPC training at a discounted rate and help to reduce the number of dangerous incidents with cyclists.

For more information contact:

Richard Evans
Highways Division, Environment Services Department
London Bourough of Hammersmith and Fulham
5th floor, Town Hall Extension, King Street, London, W6 9JU

020 8753 3344
E: sta@lbhf.gov.uk
W: www.lbhf.gov.uk