Lorry drivers and cyclists come together to see each other’s perspectives.

Police officers are on a mission today to encourage mutual respect on the region’s roads at an event in Birmingham’s Victoria Square.

They’re supporting a council-led initiative called ‘Exchanging Places’, where people can compare perspectives of HGV drivers and cyclists in a safe and controlled environment.

Visitors to the event have the opportunity to sit in the cab of an HGV to get a better understanding of what the driver can and can’t see. Meanwhile, mats on the ground around the lorry highlight all of the blind spots − especially with regard to cyclists on the nearside and directly in front of the vehicle.

It forms part of the Chief Fire Officers Association’s UK Road Safety Week, which runs between 9 and 15 June.

Chief Inspector Kerry Blakeman, from Force Traffic, said: “We are delighted to support Birmingham City Council with the Exchanging Places initiative today and have sent police officers along who are also either HGV drivers or cycling enthusiasts. These officers have first-hand experience of dealing with the consequences of collisions involving bikes and lorries, as well as knowing themselves what it’s like to be on a bike or behind the wheel. My hope is that their presence will encourage and promote a mutual respect amongst everyone who uses the road network.

“We are committed to reducing road casualties and today’s initiative is an ideal opportunity to help do that; it will raise awareness of issues and improve road safety for everyone.”