The finding came in a seven-day survey by comparison website TrackCompare.co.uk. Asked Would you use proximity sensors on your vehicles to protect vulnerable road users? 52% said yes, 48% said no.
The poll was held shortly after the road safety charity Brake offered expert guidance to fleet managers on steps they can take to reduce the dangers to people on foot and bike from company cars and commercial vehicles.
Kjell Anderton, a TrackCompare director, said: ‘Although there’s much to be done to get everyone on board, it’s encouraging more than half of fleet operators say they are willing to fit proximity sensors.
‘Their comments appear to be a good reflection of current thinking. They include “I'd use proximity sensors to protect my insurance premium more than anything,” “Yes, for sure,” “No, not really. We already have cameras,” “Depends on cost,” “No, it would cost too much to implement,” “Yes, if it stops all the claims in accidents,” “Yes, if it would benefit the business,” “If it saves lives, then why wouldn’t you?” and “It’s something we are thinking about, actually, at the moment.”’
