The research, conducted by insurers Allianz, showed that UK commercial vehicle drivers were not alone, with similar findings reported in France (54%), Germany (50%), Spain (48%) and Italy (47%).
The reasons given include that the systems are ‘impractical’, ‘annoying’, ‘unnecessary’, or that they sometimes do not work properly. Christian Sahr, head of the Allianz Centre for Technology (AZT), which commissioned the study, said: “What use are the best driver assistance systems if they are not switched on? It is crucial that fleet operators and drivers receive comprehensive training on how to use these systems.”
He added: “Our recent study of 700 road accidents shows the significant potential of modern driver assistance systems, but also the need for structural changes to improve driver visibility in commercial vehicles. We estimate that one-third of the accidents we studied could have been avoided if the truck driver had been able to see other road users in time due to a direct line of sight or if the truck had been equipped with an active blind-spot assistant.”
Lucie Bakker, head of claims at Allianz Versicherungs-AG, said: “The risk of mobile phone use is particularly high for delivery vans because, unlike traditional post vehicles, they don’t drive from door to door but have to keep an eye on their mobile device for the next stop. This is particularly noticeable in the urban delivery sector.
“We see a 20% higher frequency of motor liability claims for courier, express and parcel services compared to vehicles in other industries.”
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