Please don't turn a blind eye to safety
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I RECALL A tragic air collision three decades ago over Yugoslavia where (later) it was pretty obvious how it happened. One civil aircraft was climbing, heading towards another aircraft flying above, and neither could see one another.
What has this got to do with road haulage? Everything, if like me you value learning from the experience of others, especially where lives have been lost. Road users do not have the benefit of traffic control to ensure adequate separation only the naked eye! All vehicles have blind spots and, generally, bigger vehicles have more of them.
The car driver entering a motorway who collided with the tanker that was already there [Arclid YouTube, CM 25 March] and numerous other collisions suggest that until everyone adopts defensive driving attitudes, unnecessary collisions will continue to occur.
Keeping a safe distance in all directions, not just from the vehicle ahead is a proven lifesaver.
A cycling helmet may sometimes be useful, hut a decent cycling mirror is essential. Passing a push hike leaving the same clearance as you would pass a skittish horse costs you little.
Checking the wing mirrors before pulling out is sensible, but glancing over your shoulder is vital. Being aware of the blindspots of others is just as important as knowing your own limitations As those road maps in the sixties used to say: "The life you save may be your own.
Anthony G PhiUips
Salisbury Wiltshire