The coach and bus industry will be consulted on the mandating of safety technologies for new vehicles sold in the UK, linked to the launch today of the government’s Road Safety Strategy.
Trade bodies the Confederation of Passenger Transport and RHA are among the organisations the government has explicitly listed for consultation as part of the wider call for evidence.
Coaches and buses will be affected by most of the 18 safety technologies under consideration for mandatory implementation by manufacturers seeking GB-type approval.
The proposals include technologies to detect drowsiness, inattention and distraction in drivers.
Intelligent speed assistance (ISA) is another of the technologies under review. However, unlike the technology used on some Transport for London (TfL) buses and Stagecoach East buses on the Cambridge Busway, it would be possible for the driver to override the speed-limiter.
Other enhancements being consulted on include blind-spot warning systems and enhancements, and event data recorders.
The new Road Safety Strategy is designed to achieve a 65% reduction in the number of people killed or seriously injured on roads in Great Britain by 2035.
No specific policy recommendations have been made by the Strategy for coaches or buses. However, the paper refers to ongoing work to enhance safety in the industry.
It notes that the DfT-funded Bus Centre of Excellence has established the Bus Knowledge Sharing and Incident Network. It adds that the Bus Services Act 2025, which gives local authorities greater powers over their bus services, could specify safety measures for franchising contracts. TfL is also singled out for its Vision Zero commitment to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries from its network by 2041.
The Strategy also says the government will “explore opportunities to further DVSA’s ‘Earned recognition’ scheme”.
In response to the launch, RHA confirmed its commitment to improving safety standards in the coach and haulage sectors that it represents.
Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, says: “We welcome the government’s announcement of a new Road Safety Strategy to reduce injuries and deaths on our roads.
“The RHA is a champion for the highest standards on our roads and we fully support efforts to make journeys safer. We’ll lead our industry in supporting the government to deliver on its mission to reduce road deaths by 65% by 2035 – a goal that will require genuine partnership with industry.
“We will be responding to consultations ensuring haulage, coach and van sector perspectives are heard as the government presses on with its plans…
“We also welcome the strategy’s commitment to piloting a National Work-Related Road Safety Charter for businesses that require people to drive for them. This aligns perfectly with our upcoming Driver Welfare campaign, making this a very timely commitment. We look forward to working with the government to make sure this charter meets the needs of commercial vehicle operators.”
Alison Edwards, CPT Director of Policy and External Relations, adds: “A concerted effort by the government to improve road safety is a welcome step for all road users – including those who travel by bus and coach…
“Drivers of buses and coaches already face stringent medical standards – including eyesight checks. And while the statutory alcohol limit is the same for all drivers, many operators apply stricter standards for those on duty.
“CPT looks forward to liaising with the Department for Transport to make sure the new road safety strategy is as effective as possible, with a view to safer streets for all – including bus and coach operators, drivers and passengers.”
