Improving road safety through truck visibility

By Pippa Batchelor - Download Here

A leading university study in Germany found that more than 95% of night time accidents from the rear or side of a truck could be reduced by using outline vehicle visibility markings . A truck, defined as a vehicle over 7.5 tonne gross weight, with outline reflective markings is recognised earlier than an unmarked truck. Using this visual information, a road user can deduce the likely type of the vehicle ahead, proximity and probable speed, giving them the best chance and more time to manoeuvre safely. 

There are several other studies that provide compelling results for the introduction of vehicle markings. The US introduced mandatory vehicle markings in December 1993 to all new heavy vehicles. A study commissioned by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration assessed the effectiveness of these vehicle markings in reducing truck accidents, with the study area covering Florida and Pennsylvania. They concluded that tape reduced side and rear impacts by up to 44% in dark conditions. The paper found that the tape was effective in all adverse weather conditions (except fog).

Additionally, the study estimated the number of fatalities that could be saved, as well as other injuries, if tape was applied to all heavy vehicles. This conclusion lead to the mandating of retrospective application of reflective markings to all heavy vehicles and their trailers in 1999.