Author: News Desk

How Van Racking Can Save You Money on Insurance

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Introduction

Let’s face it, when you have van racking –

Having van insurance is absolutely crucial, especially when you’re transporting valuable equipment from one place to another.

But here’s the twist:

Van racking doesn’t just keep your tools organized; it can actually slash your insurance premiums in the long run.

Curious how?

Let’s dive into why it can work wonders for your insurance costs.

Racking – Efficient Use Of Space And Vehicle Size

First things first—

It can help you organize and store tools safely.

With a well-organised van, you might realise you don’t need that large vehicle anymore.

Downsising to a smaller van means lower purchase costs, cheaper maintenance, and yes, reduced insurance premiums.

Why does this matter?

A smaller van with a smart racking system maximises space, making every inch count.

It’s all about getting the most out of what you have, and that’s a win for your wallet.

Racking Helps Prevent Transit Damage

Think about it:

Without racking, your tools and equipment can easily shift and bounce around during transit, increasing the risk of damage.

That’s not just annoying—

It’s costly.

But install it, and suddenly, everything stays put.

Your gear stays secure, and you avoid the expensive damage that leads to insurance claims.

And guess what?

Insurers love this.

They know it keeps your equipment safe, drastically lowering the risk of damage while on the road.

Less damage means fewer claims, and fewer claims mean lower premiums for you.

It’s that simple.

Reduced Risk With Racking And Improved Safety

Here’s the deal—

Insurance companies aren’t just looking at your van—

They’re assessing risk.

When insurers spot racking, they quickly recognise that the van owner takes safety seriously and is committed to minimising risks.

Additionally, by keeping everything securely stored, you significantly lower the chances of tools becoming hazardous projectiles during sudden stops or unexpected accidents.

The payoff?

Reduced risk means insurance companies might offer you lower quotes.

In fact, it can reduce your premiums by an average of 5-10%.

It’s all about showing insurers that you’re committed to vehicle safety.

Enhanced Security Features

But wait—

There’s more!

When you’re setting up your racking, why not add some extra security?

Locks on storage compartments protect your valuable tools, making theft less likely.

And that’s music to any insurer’s ears.

Better security doesn’t just safeguard your tools—

It also lowers the perceived risk of theft.

While security features might increase your van’s value, the drop in theft risk means lower insurance costs.

You save money, and your gear stays safe.

Win-win.

Van Racking Is A Game-Changer

But don’t stop there.

Here are a few more tricks to keep those premiums low:

  • Add Signage: Signage increases your van’s visibility, making it less appealing to thieves.
  • Name Your Drivers: Listing individual drivers instead of opting for “any driver” cover shows insurers you’re selective, which can lower your premiums.
  • Secure Your Van: Parking in locked garages or monitored lots further reduces risks, proving you’re serious about keeping your van safe.

Conclusion

Van racking isn’t just about organisation—

It’s a strategic move to cut insurance costs.

From maximising space utilisation to boosting security features, racking plays a crucial role in helping you save on insurance premiums while ensuring your tools remain safe and organised.

Moreover, when you combine racking with additional strategies like adding signage, naming specific drivers on your policy, and securing your van with safe parking options, you set yourself up for even greater savings on your insurance costs.

Bottom line?

Investing in van racking isn’t just good for your equipment—

It’s great for your insurance budget.

So, why wait?

Start racking and watch those premiums drop.

Van Owner Fined And Vehicle Crushed After Fly Tipping

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Fly-tipping…

Authorities fined a man £800 and crushed his vehicle after he used his van to fly-tip in Redbridge.

The Consequences Of Fly-Tipping 

Fly-tippers harm the environment and communities and is a criminal act.

Unfortunately, some individuals continue engaging in this illegal activity despite severe penalties.

In Redbridge, authorities fined a man £800 for dumping tyres and old carpets in an alleyway after successfully tracking him down.

Tracking Down Fly-Tippers

The article highlights how Redbridge Council and the Police actively investigated and seized two vehicles involved in fly-tipping incidents.

The owner of the van was traced, admitted to fly-tipping, and fined £800. The seized van was crushed due to non-collection.

This incident serves as a reminder that engaging in fly-tipping is a serious offense, carrying harsh consequences such as substantial fines and possible imprisonment.

Moreover, it highlights the importance of disposing of waste responsibly and legally to avoid such penalties.

Fly-Tipping is An Illegal Activity

As such, it is unlikely that an insurance company would cover any damage or loss resulting from it.

In addition, the owner of the van may also face higher premiums or difficulty in obtaining insurance in the future due to their involvement in criminal activity.

Van owners should actively act responsibly and adhere to legal practices to prevent any negative consequences on their insurance policies.

How To Avoid Falling Foul Of The Law

The article offers several useful tips to help homeowners avoid breaking the law.

First and foremost, hire only licensed waste removal services and conduct thorough research to find reputable companies or individuals.

Additionally, actively record the vehicle’s registration, use traceable payment methods, and obtain a waste transfer note and receipt as evidence to safeguard against fly-tipping.

By following these steps, homeowners can better protect themselves from legal issues.Conclusion

The article serves as a reminder of fly-tipping’s severe consequences: environmental harm, community impact, fines, and imprisonment for offenders.

Van owners who use their vehicles for fly-tipping may face even harsher penalties, including difficulty in obtaining insurance in the future.

Disposing of waste responsibly and legally is crucial, and the tips provided in the article can help homeowners avoid legal troubles.

Furthermore, by taking responsibility for waste disposal and following legal procedures,

we not only avoid penalties, but also contribute to a cleaner and safer environment for everyone.

Car or Van? How To Ensure Your Insurance Policy Fits Your Vehicle

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Today, knowing the difference between a car and a van is crucial for tax and insurance.

The Definition Of Cars And Vans: Understanding The Difference

Cars and vans are both vehicles that we use daily, but what exactly distinguishes the two?

Understanding the difference between cars and vans is important for several reasons,

including taxation, insurance, and practicality. 

Car-Derived Van: A Grey Area

Car-derived vans are a unique type of vehicle that often confuses people.

According to HMRC, a car-derived van is a goods vehicle that is constructed or adapted as a derivative of a passenger vehicle.

These vehicles are vans that you can buy as a car, such as the Ford Fiesta or Vauxhall Corsa.

From the outside, they look like a cars, but inside, they function like vans with no rear seats and a large payload area.

However, they typically have no side or rear windows.

Double Cabs

The area that causes the most confusion is double cabs, also known as crew or kombi vans.

These are vans such as the Volkswagen Transporter or the Ford Transit that have a second row of seats.

To qualify as a commercial vehicle for tax, a van needs a minimum payload capacity of 1000 kg.

But if the load space is small and the second row of seats takes up more room, it may be seen as more suited for passengers than goods.

Pick-Up Trucks: The Payload Predicament

Pick-up trucks like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Nissan Navara can cause confusion with classification.

The key thing for a pick-up truck to become a commercial vehicle is if the vehicle’s payload is over 1000kgs.

Most double-cab pick-ups have a carrying capacity over this, but it’s important to ensure it stays over this figure.

Small payload vehicles are considered passenger-carrying vehicles and are taxed and insured as cars.

What happens If My Commercial Vehicle Is A Car?

If your commercial vehicle is classified as a car, it may affect your insurance.

This could leave you without coverage in an accident.

You also won’t be able to reclaim VAT on the purchase or lease unless you prove 100% business use.

And you’ll lose the Benefit in Kind taxation, resulting in a higher rate of tax.

How To Determine If Your Vehicle Is A Car Or A Van

Your V5 logbook can offer guidance on whether your vehicle is a car or a van.

Manufacturers must declare the class of the vehicle at the point that it leaves the factory gates, using four classifications:

M1 for cars, M2 for minibusses, and N1 and N2 for commercial vehicles.

However, this doesn’t account for car modifications after the vehicle leaves the factory.

It’s also worth remembering that modifying your vehicle could invalidate your insurance.

HMRC and your insurer may have different views.

Weigh your vehicle and check guidelines from governing bodies to be sure.

The Differences Between Car And Van Insurance

Van and car insurance are different, with each having its level of risk, features, and cover.

Your vehicle requires the correct insurance, and you cannot drive a car on your van insurance.

MultiCar insurance can help cover both a car and a van.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between cars and vans is essential for practicality, taxation, and insurance purposes.

Double cabs, car-derived vans, and pick-up trucks often fall into grey areas.

Checking payload capacity, modifications, and guidelines can clarify your vehicle’s classification.

Ensure that you have the correct insurance coverage for your vehicle.

Be aware of the potential impacts on your taxation and insurance coverage if your vehicle is misclassified.

Understand the distinctions between cars and vans.

You can make informed decisions about your vehicle use and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Using Van As A Weapon In A Road Rage Attack

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A road rage incident left a man with life-changing injuries when two vehicles crushed him

Francesco Ippolito received a nearly 10-year prison sentence for the brutal attack

How Road Rage Turned Violent

The road rage incident occurred on Banwell Road near Hutton Garden Centre in Weston-super-Mare.

Ippolito became enraged when his Volkswagen Transporter’s wing mirror hit another van driver.

He got out of his vehicle to confront the other driver and two other men, before driving his van at one of them.

The Devastating Impact Of Road Rage On The Victim’s Life

Ippolito fled to Bristol, where authorities later arrested him.

The victim, who suffered fractures to both legs and a broken pelvis, has had to undergo multiple operations.

In a statement, the victim said that the attack had ruined his life.

It left him unable to go out unaided or play with his children.

Ippolito initially denied the charge of grievous bodily harm.

But he changed his plea to guilty two weeks before the trial was set to begin.

At Bristol Crown Court, he was sentenced to nine years and four months in custody.

Previous Conviction: How The Past Caught Up With Him In Court

Ippolito has a history of driving incidents.

In 2009, authorities convicted him of causing a man’s death through careless driving.

As a result, he has been classified as a dangerous offender.

He will remain on licence for an extended period of five years following his release from prison.

Sentencing

Judge William Hart described the attack as an “insignificant everyday event” that led to extreme violence.

He told Ippolito that he had lost his self-control with devastating consequences.

The judge also highlighted the severity of the victim’s injuries, stating that the consequences were “very grave indeed.”

Investigation And Aftermath

Detective Sergeant Rachel Walls commended the investigation team for their thorough work in locating Ippolito and securing the evidence needed for his guilty plea.

She expressed sympathy for the victim and his family, who continue to live with the physical and emotional aftermath of the attack.

Conclusion

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of road rage and the need for self-control when behind the wheel.

It highlights the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions and ensure justice for the victims of violent crimes.

Negligent Workman Causes Collision When Ladder Falls Off Van

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Safety first….

The incident that happened on the Coast Road in Walsall.

It serves as a reminder of the importance of securing loads properly before setting off on the road.

Negligence in this regard can cause serious accidents and pose a threat to the safety of other road users.

Absent-Mindedness And Road Safety

The workman hadn’t secured the ladder to his vehicle when he travelled along the busy main road.

The case is an example of how a moment of absent-mindedness can have serious consequences.

Although nobody was injured in the crash caused by his ladder falling off the van, the incident could have been much worse.

It is fortunate that there were no injuries and that the damage caused was limited to the two vehicles involved.

The workman’s lawyer highlighted that his client had been going through a period of absent-mindedness at the time of the incident.

This was likely due to the stress of his mother’s illness.

While this may have been a contributing factor, it is essential to emphasise,

all van drivers have a responsibility to ensure that their loads are secure before taking to the road.

Penalties For Failing To Secure Loads

The court fined the workman £150 and gave him three penalty points.

This is a reminder that drivers who fail to secure their loads can face penalties under the law.

A Wake-Up Call For Road Safety

The incident highlights the need for awareness and caution on the roads.

It is easy to become complacent and overlook safety measures, especially when we are preoccupied with personal issues.

However, it is essential to prioritise safety at all times, as the consequences of a moment of carelessness can be severe.

Conclusion

The incident caused by the absent-minded workman is a reminder of the importance of securing loads properly,

and the dangers of negligence on the road.

Unsafe loads can invalidate any driver’s van insurance in the event of an accident claim.

It is vital for drivers to remain aware of their responsibilities.

And take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety and that of others on the road.

Why Proper Vehicle Compliance Is Crucial For Road Safety

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Road safety..

Wilts specialist ops #RPU stopped this van on M4 as it appeared overloaded.

The van was over 20% overweight, the driver had no insurance, and held a license for automatic vehicles only.

Furthermore, this van was definitely a manual!

As a result, the driver was fined and reported.

There are several reasons why this incident is important.

Road Safety

Overloading a vehicle can cause significant safety risks for the driver and other road users.

Consequently, it is crucial to address this issue to ensure road safety.

It can affect the handling of the vehicle, therefore increasing the stopping distance.

Moreover, it can potentially damage the brakes and suspension.

Insurance

Driving without insurance is illegal and can result in significant fines and penalties.

It’s important for all drivers to have appropriate insurance coverage to protect themselves and others in the event of an accident.

Licensing

Driving a vehicle that is outside the scope of a driver’s licence can result in fines, penalties, and potentially legal action if an accident occurs.

It’s important for drivers to ensure they have the appropriate licence for the vehicles they are operating.

Enforcement Of Road Safety

This incident highlights the importance of enforcement efforts by the police .

They ensure that drivers are complying with the law and not putting themselves or others at risk on the road.

By stopping this van and taking appropriate action, the police are helping to improve safety and reduce the risk of accidents on the road.

Conclusion

This incident involving an overloaded van driven by an unlicensed driver with no insurance highlights several important issues related to road safety.

Firstly, overloading a vehicle can pose significant safety risks to both the driver and other road users.

Moreover, driving without appropriate insurance coverage or a valid license is illegal and can result in substantial fines and penalties.

By taking appropriate action, the police are helping to improve safety and reduce the risk of accidents on the road.

Road Rage Incident On M6 Goes Viral And Sparks Criticism

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One driver’s actions often trigger road rage incidents.

A road rage incident on the M6 motorway in Cheshire has gone viral on social media after a video was captured of a van driver threatening another driver with a steering wheel lock.

A Tense Scene Of Road Rage Unfolds

The road rage incident took place on March 31st.

It was on the M6 motorway when traffic was preparing to leave the slip road, and a large queue of vehicles was trailing behind the van.

A man in a fluorescent jacket with the words ‘gas’ on the back approached the van and seemingly attempted to unlock the door.

As a result, the van driver brandished a bright yellow steering wheel lock..

Viral Video Sparks Criticism

Critics slammed both drivers for their behavior

The video, which people widely shared on TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube, has drawn criticism as many have slammed both drivers for their behavior.

It remains unclear what occurred between the pair that made them so irate.

However, the incident lasted just 30 seconds, and both drivers then returned to their vehicles and drove off.

The use of violence in this incident is concerning, as it could have escalated into a more serious situation.

Road rage incidents are not uncommon, and they can be dangerous and even deadly.

In 2019, the UK government introduced new legislation that increased the penalties for dangerous driving.

This includes road rage incidents, which can result in fines and even imprisonment.

The Dangers Of Road Rage And The Need For Calm And Patience On The Road

It is important for drivers to remain calm and patient on the road, especially during traffic jams or other stressful situations.

If you feel threatened by another driver, avoid confrontation and report the incident to the police.

It is also important to ensure that your own behavior is responsible and considerate of other drivers,.

One driver’s actions often trigger road rage incidents.

Conclusion

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the potential dangers of road rage.

It is essential for all drivers to remain calm and patient on the road.

Avoid engaging in confrontations that could lead to violence or other dangerous situations.

Essential Van Insurance Tips Every Tradesman Should Know

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Introduction

Van Insurance…

Tradesmen rely on their vans to transport their tools and equipment, and to travel to different job sites.

This makes van insurance an essential requirement for anyone running a business where their van plays a crucial role.

Protect Your Business

Van insurance is a type of commercial vehicle insurance that covers vehicles operating for business purposes.

It protects the policyholder in the event of an emergency or damages caused to their vehicle.

In addition, typical van insurance covers a range of risks.

For example, these include collisions, third-party liability, medical payments, rental reimbursements, and roadside assistance.

Furthermore, coverage extends to customized equipment, uninsured motorist protection, and business use.

Why Tradesmen Need Van Insurance

There are several reasons why having van insurance is essential for tradesmen.

Firstly, your van may meet with an accident on the road or catch fire due to internal machinery problems or some other external events.

In such cases, your insurance company will provide you with the required safety and security and cover all the losses or damages.

Another prime importance of van insurance is that it covers the loss or damage of your vehicle while in transit by air, roads, railways, or inland waterways.

Understanding The Coverage Of Van Insurance

Your car may get involved in an accident where it has caused damage to any third parties.

Under these circumstances, the third party will claim the money from the tradesman, which can be a significant amount.

Having van insurance protects you in case a car accident involving your vehicle results in the injury or death of a third party.

With a personal insurance cover, you get compensation with a predetermined amount.

The personal cover protects you from the loss of your life or bodily insurance.

In case you receive a fatal accident with great damage to your body, personal insurance can provide you with protection.

Insurance can help the family fight out the loss with fiscal stimulus.

Hassle-Free Coverage For Busy Tradesmen

Many insurance companies offer online customer service to service holders.

They provide live chat and email support, allowing you to get answers to your queries and confusions regarding the insurance policy without problems.

Assurance comes with quality, and insurance provides you with it.

Van insurance is easy to access and provides automated renewal.

You don’t have to worry about policy expiry as it automatically renews.

This is particularly helpful for busy tradesmen who may forget to renew their policy on time.

Get cheap van insurance from cheapvaninsurance.co.uk and save yourself from the odds in life.

Conclusion

Small businesses are crucial to a country’s economy, and tradesmen play a significant role in developing it.

Therefore, it is important for tradesmen to keep themselves and their assets secure for sustenance.

Van insurance provides a shield against any mishaps, ensuring that you can focus on growing your business without worrying about any unforeseen events.

So, if you are a tradesman, get yourself insured and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your van is protected.

White Van Driver Dangerously Undertakes At 90mph On M4

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The incident of a white van driver dangerously undertaking at 90mph on the M4.

This is just one example of the dangers of reckless driving on motorways.

The Dangers Of Reckless Driving On Motorways

Video footage captured by an unmarked police car shows the van driver swinging from the outside lane to the inside lane.

Overtaking several vehicles on the way, and then moving back into the middle lane.

This is a clear violation of traffic rules and puts the lives of other drivers at risk.

Speeding And Undertaking: A Lethal Combination

Speeding on motorways is a common problem.

But, when combined with reckless overtaking, it can lead to serious accidents and injuries.

Drivers who undertake and exceed the speed limit reduce their reaction time.

This increases the force of impact in case of a collision.

According to road safety experts, the risk of death or serious injury doubles for every 10 mph over the speed limit.

Undertaking, which involves overtaking another vehicle on the inside lane, is illegal in many countries including the UK.

It is an extremely dangerous behaviour, especially when the driver being overtaken is unaware of the other driver’s presence.

The video footage of the white van driver on the M4 is a stark reminder of the importance of following traffic rules on motorways.

The police officers in the unmarked car were able to witness the dangerous driving and take appropriate action.

The Importance Of Following Traffic Rules On Motorways

However, not all reckless drivers are caught, and many accidents go unreported.

It is important for all drivers to be responsible and avoid behaviours that put their lives and the lives of others at risk.

There are several steps that drivers can take to ensure their safety on motorways.

First and foremost, it is important to obey the speed limit and avoid overtaking on the inside lane.

Drivers should also maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

It is also important to avoid distractions, such as mobile phones or eating while driving.

These can lead to loss of concentration and delayed reactions.

Steps To Ensure Safety On Motorways

In addition to being responsible on the road, drivers can also take advantage of technology to enhance their safety.

Many modern vehicles come equipped with features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warnings, which can help prevent accidents.

GPS navigation systems can also provide real-time traffic information, helping drivers avoid congestion and potentially dangerous situations.

Conclusion

The incident of the white van driver dangerously undertaking at 90mph on the M4 is a clear example of the dangers of reckless driving on motorways.

It’s important for all drivers to be responsible and avoid behaviours that put their lives and the lives of others at risk.

Follow traffic rules by maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.

By being aware of their surroundings, drivers can help ensure their safety on the road.

Urgent Warning Issued To Van Drivers As Tool Theft Soars

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Van drivers across the UK should implement extra security measures because tool theft rates have soared by 57 percent.

Tackling The Rising Cases Of Tool Theft In The UK

New research shows that only 10 percent of vans in the UK stay in a garage overnight

This according to experts, is a significant concern as tool theft has increased.

Thieves target vans for expensive tools kept inside.

The Metropolitan Police data reported 13,677 cases of tool theft from vehicles between March 2021 and March 2022.

This equates to 37 cases of theft per day.

This article discusses the importance of increasing security measures and some precautionary steps to protect your van and its contents.

The Importance Of Additional Safety Features

The research carried out on 100,000 van insurance policies revealed the importance of additional safety features to deter thieves and improve security.

Even if your vehicle comes with basic security systems, factory-fitted immobilisers, and alarms, they may not be enough.

Modern thieves can evade them with key fob cloning and blocking.

It is crucial to implement additional safety features such as GPS tracking, reinforced locks, and secure shelving to protect your van’s contents.

Installing CCTV cameras and motion sensors can also help prevent theft and provide evidence in case of a break-in.

Precautionary Steps To Protect Your Van And Its Contents

The experts stress that van drivers need to take precautionary steps to keep thieves away.

This would include things such as not leaving valuables in plain sight or in the van overnight.

It is essential to park in a well-lit location and avoid drawing attention to the fact that there may be tools inside the vehicle by not displaying external branding and logos.

Adding decals and signage to a van can increase your insurance premium for that reason.

Thus, it’s better to avoid displaying your van’s content and make sure it looks like an ordinary van.

Checking Insurance Policy Coverage

It is also essential to double-check that your tools are covered by your van insurance policy.

They are not always included as standard, so it is essential to ensure that you have comprehensive coverage for your van and its contents.

In the event of a theft, having the right insurance policy can help keep your business running and minimize financial loss.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rising tool theft rates across the UK should be a significant concern for van drivers.

Implementing additional safety features such as GPS tracking, reinforced locks, and secure shelving can help deter thieves and improve security.

Furthermore, taking precautionary steps such as parking in a well-lit location, not leaving valuables in plain sight, and avoiding external branding and logos can help prevent theft.

Finally, it is crucial to double-check that your tools are covered by your van insurance policy, as they are not always included as standard.

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