Safety rides at the forefront
Although the mirror problem is well known, the necessary adjustments are easily overlooked or simply forgotten in the hectic and hurry of everyday logistics. Too complicated and too time-consuming are popular arguments for paying less attention to the side mirrors. But every driver should be aware that good vision helps and protects. And last but not least, it saves lives if the worst happens.
Edscha TS - Action for better vision
Reason enough for Edscha TS, market leader in the field of innovative sliding roof systems, to once again draw attention to the general problem and to present a very simple but highly efficient method for perfect mirror adjustment. The purchase of the so-called "Argus mirror plan" supports the organisation "DocStop", which offers truck drivers quick help with health problems on the road.
No uniform rules in the EU
Neither nationally nor at the European level has there been a uniform set of rules in EU traffic law to date. This also applies to the problem of the so-called "blind spot". Everyone is looking for a solution and everyone does it differently. In France, for example, there has been an obligation since 2021 to equip vehicles over 3.5 tonnes with a blind spot marking that is visible from both sides as well as from the rear. And is affixed by stickers or magnetic signs. Expensive technology on a voluntary basis is supposed to solve the problem of blind spots on trucks in Germany. And money is also supposed to help. No subsidies for the purchase of new trucks, for example, if a turn-off assistant is not also installed.
The development of the "ARGUS mirror tarpaulin
Since 2013, a working group of the German Transport Employer's Liability Insurance Association ("BG Verkehr" / "Berufsgenossenschaft Verkehr") has been dealing with the topic of avoiding turning accidents. Especially when turning right at intersections, truck drivers overlook pedestrians and cyclists who want to cross the intersection in a straight line. If a collision occurs, these unprotected road users are often run over. The consequences: serious injuries or death. Due to the impressions at the scene of the accident, truck drivers often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. It is important to know that turning a truck, truck-trailer or articulated vehicle within built-up areas is a very complex process for drivers, who have to observe many areas around the vehicle and make an assessment of the current situation in quick succession. Drivers report a high level of mental stress in this context. For these reasons, the mirror adjustment plans were developed.
How the mirror tarpaulin works
The ARGUS-Mirrorr-Tarpaulin is available in two versions. Firstly, as an ARGUS Safety Tarpaulin "Mobile" in the form of a light but robust film made of net vinyl with mirror areas for optimum adjustment on the road. The second is the ARGUS Safety Tarpaulin "Station" with a film made of "truck PVC tarpaulin fabric" with mirror areas for optimum adjustment on the premises. In a first step, the mirror tarpaulin is spread out on the ground on the passenger side in accordance with the operating instructions. Coloured fields, as well as an attached lashing strap plus measuring tape will later help to position the mirror's sight lines. It's quick, easy and perfect.
DocStop: Project for medical care on the road
... developed in 2007 from the pilot project "Healthy on the Move". In the meantime, more than 700 doctors and hospitals participate in DocStop. The aim of the association is to contribute to greater road safety and the creation of a humanitarian workplace by providing better medical care for truck drivers and professional drivers in the transport industry. The project is supported by many german celebrities, such as pop singer Jürgen Drews, talk show host Markus Lanz or the country band TruckStop, and of course many companies from the traffic and transport sector. A large number of haulage companies are also involved, which benefit not least from healthy drivers.
How to order - How to get 50 euros into the DocStop account
Orders can be placed on the ARGUS website: if you add the words "I Love Edscha TS" or "Edscha-Aktion" to your order by hand, "DocStop" will receive a bonus of 50 euros (per order).
