If you are looking into buying a van for the first time, or maybe you are considering van hire, then it is not a million miles away from your experience driving a car. However, there are a few things to be aware of when taking on a van.
Ensure all the doors are closed securely
This is even more important if you are carrying a load as vans can have side cargo doors well as the rear doors. Ensure that all doors are closed securely and cannot come open while the van is moving.
Has the load been secured?
Ensure that the load has been firmly secured as an unsecured load can slide around a lot in a spacious van which can be incredibly dangerous.
Vans are larger than cars
Be aware of the length, width and height of your van, especially if you are new to driving a van.
- Take care when you are reversing or parking
- Vans are not usually known for being tall, but the height of your vehicle should be clearly displayed just above the driver’s side of the windscreen. Be aware of low bridges etc. which will usually be clearly marked with a height restriction. Also watch out for trees with low-hanging branches.
Vans are designed to transport loads, not handle like sports cars
- Take corners slowly and if possible give them a wider birth. Vans often need more room to turn, and can tip over if you take a corner too fast.
- Remember the heavier or larger the vehicle, the longer it takes to stop, particularly in icy or wet conditions.
- Watch out very carefully for cyclists and bikers as they can get lost in your blind spots and can be tempted to overtake on the blind side.
Written by Ricky May on behalf of Compare Van Hire, offering cheap van hire to the UK.
