Vans caught by new blind spot mirror rules

blind_spot.jpgAll goods vehicles grossing at above 3.5 tonnes and first registered after 1 January 2000 must now be fitted with blind spot mirrors or equally effective aids to better vision on the passenger side.

The aim is to stop drivers hitting pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists because they failed to see them. The new rules came into force on 31 March as a consequence of 2007/38/EC; the EU's Retrofitting of Mirrors Directive.

The new rules are mainly aimed at heavy trucks, but a considerable number of large vans are also caught in the net. If you're not sure whether your vehicles comply or not, talk to your franchised dealer immediately.