Archives January 2022

Using mobile phones whilst driving was banned way back in 2003. However, even today we still find people using their phones whilst behind the wheel. Whilst checking the road traffic news or a quick look at your messages may seem harmless, these actions can be life threatening.

One in four road accidents are caused in some way mobile phone usage. A split second distraction from the road can cause multiple fatalities if you’re not careful, especially if you are driving a heavy goods vehicle.

Any LGV driver found using a handheld phone whilst behind faces losing their licence and therefore their livelihoods. Is it really worth it?

Employers are also responsible for making sure there is no mobile phone usage behind the wheel. Employers must have clear mobile phone policies in place.

If you need to make contact with someone or use your phone, it is vital that you stop your vehicle fully in a safe place to use your mobile. It’s just not worth the risk.

For more information about our CPC courses, contact WeTrainCPC on 01582 383033 or rue@wetraincpc.co.uk.

Roads come in all shapes and sizes! And at times, LGV drivers will find themselves faced with driving on VERY rural roads! Roads like this can be very different from motorways – here’s what to expect when driving on rural roads.

The roads can be narrow! Narrow roads can make it difficult to see around corners and to pass oncoming traffic safely. And sometimes narrow roads can be deceptively so! Take it slow and use your height as a benefit to see over bushes where possible.

Subsidence. Rural roads are often the victim of less maintenance and given they are in less built up areas over time roads will subside, leading to potholes and uneven surfaces. Try to stay away from the edges of rural roads where possible but thankfully for most LGVs general potholes and uneven surfaces won’t cause too much trouble.

Mud. Oh yes! As rural roads are often used by tractors and other farming vehicles they’ll often pull mud onto the road, leaving surfaces slippery. In poor weather conditions take extra care when driving across muddy surfaces.

Lack of lighting and road marks. Rural roads have far fewer road markings and lighting than most urban roads and motorways, so be aware of this and stay alert when driving at night.

For more information about our CPC courses, contact WeTrainCPC on 01582 383033 or rue@wetraincpc.co.uk.