A new road safety campaign has been introduced to help drivers navigate motorways more safely, especially when travelling near heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). The initiative, developed by National Highways in collaboration with RED Driver Training, is aimed at both recently qualified motorists and those with years of experience behind the wheel.

The campaign underlines the dangers of driving close to lorries, pointing out that HGVs have significant blind spots. These include areas directly in front of the cab, immediately behind the vehicle, and diagonally behind the driver on both sides. Motorists are being reminded not to drive too close, to avoid lingering alongside lorries, and to always position themselves where they can be seen by the HGV driver.

The launch comes as thousands of new drivers take to the roads during late summer, with official figures showing more than 68,000 passed their test in August last year alone. Worryingly, one in four serious or fatal accidents involving HGVs involves a driver under the age of 30. National Highways said greater awareness of lorry blind spots and road positioning could help reduce risks significantly.

Colin Stevenson, road safety lead at National Highways, stressed that “understanding how to share the road with large vehicles is vital.” RED Driver Training’s CEO, Seb Goldin, added that extra motorway practice with an instructor could be invaluable for learners and newly qualified drivers in building confidence and experience.