Volvo: HGV Drivers Not Using Safety Belts

One would expect HGV drivers who invest a lot of time in training would observe safety regulations at all costs. Apparently, that’s not the case, at least according to Volvo. The Swedish car and truck manufacturer claims only about half of Europe’s HGV drivers use their safety belts as the law requires.

Volvo’s Carl Johan Almqvist told HGV Ireland that as many as 7,000 lives could be saved every year if drivers in the EU were more conscientious about safety belt use. Almqvist believes professional drivers should set the example for all road users by complying with the law.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the chances of surviving a serious accident doubles for both drivers and passengers who wear safety belts. WHO backs up that assertion with the latest statistics compiled in their 2013 road safety report.

Currently more than 100 countries around the world require safety belt use among drivers. In the EU, it has been a requirement since 2006. Every car and truck on the road, regardless of the size, is required to have passengers and drivers restrained with working belts.

An Issue of Safety

As always, the HGV Training Centre stresses a safety-first mindset. Whether a driver receives his or her HGV training in Devon, Gwent, or any of the other 40+ facilities we maintain around the country, he or she graduates our courses being thoroughly versed in all issues of highway safety and regulation.

While it’s true that many HGV drivers find the safety belt to be somewhat uncomfortable after many hours behind the wheel, there is no denying that the chances of surviving a serious accident are dramatically increased. Therefore, it becomes a question of comfort versus survivability. If a driver knew he/she was to be involved in a serious crash later in the day, he or she would likely be found wearing their safety belt.

Train with Us

The UK’s professional drivers have many options to choose from when it comes to training. So why train with us? We can give you several reasons:

• Multiple Locations – The HGV Training Centre is one of the largest training companies in the UK with more than 45 facilities. No matter where you live, there is a training centre within a reasonable distance of your location.

• Expert Assistance – Our highly trained and professional staff prides itself in offering you expert assistance every step of the way. We will help you with your paperwork, prepare you for your theory test, and provide you with the best practical skills training in the business. We will even send one of our trainers with you for your practical skills test.

• Training Programs – Our list of training programs is not confined to articulated lorries only. We offer training for all sorts of commercial vehicles including cargo trucks, heavy construction equipment, coaches, buses, horseboxes, and more. We even offer caravan and forklift training.

If you need commercial driver training, you need the HGV Training Centre. Call us to get started right away.