HGVs to have Cyclops mirrors by law

All heavy goods vehicles exceeding 7.5 tonnes will have to have a 'Cyclops' front mirror from 1 October 2012, to cut down on the number of accidents involving HGVs, cyclists and pedestrians, writes Brian Byrne.

The decision comes following a public consultation process and approval from the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.
 
In the 12-year period between 1996 and 2008, 21 deaths and 14 serious injuries on Irish roads can be attributed to the inability of a HGV driver to see the pedestrian or cyclist as they passed in front of the vehicle’s blind zone. 

At present only HGVs registered after 2007 are obliged to have these mirrors, but from 1 October 2012 the HGV annual roadworthiness test will be updated to include a check for conformance with the new regulations.