Author: News Desk

Oopsie Daisies Committed by Van Drivers

Posted on by News Desk

There have been a few stories circulating around the web recently over UK van drivers making some silly mistakes. However, we’ve got your back. We’ve decided to call them Oopsie Daisies. 

These things can happen to anyone. Can’t they…? Why don’t you read on and be the judge?

Delivery Driver Working for DPD Gets Stuck Inside His Van – TWICE

Forgot your keys in the van and locked yourself out before? Fair enough. It happens. However, this unfortunate DPD driver managed to get himself trapped in the back of his van, not once, but twice. 

Thankfully, after making a ruckus to get the attention of anyone who may have been around him, he was rescued by a nearby student. He used his horn and hammered – which we guess is definitely difficult to ignore.

Now, we get that this is the type of situation that may happen to someone once. But for it to happen twice? You may want to wedge your van doors open a bit mate, especially if you have no choice but to go in and get parcels.

Can you relate? Or has something similar happened to you? Let us know. We promise not to laugh.

If you’d like to watch the viral TikTok that caused the van driver’s unfortunate event to become famous, you can watch it here.

Van Driver from Exeter Drives Off with Roof of Car Park

Not quite the exit he meant to make, we’re sure. An unfortunate van driver in Devon somehow made the unlucky call and misjudged the manoeuvre. 

Helping a friend move in, the driver must have been very surprised to discover he now had an additional roof strapped to the top of his van. 

Witnesses say they are surprised there haven’t been more incidents like this, as the car park roof is quite a low one. 

An oopsie daisie, for sure.

If you’d like to read more about the unfortunate event, you can do so here.

I’ve Committed an Oopsie Daisie, What Should I Do?

We’re quite sure we’d rather have the first oopsie daisie happen to us, but perhaps you’d prefer the second?

Of course, in an ideal world, there would be no oopsie daisies at all. However, these things do happen, and in events like this, it’s best to be prepared.

That’s why we offer cheap van insurance deals, especially for you. We will have the lender for you, so why not fill out this quick form, and see what we can do to help.

Delivery Drivers’ Dirty Motives

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Delivery drivers… Don’t be this guy.

Sometimes, women despair.

And when you hear what these dirty delivery drivers have been up to, the despair is felt strongly, and rightly so.

Not The Right Idea Of Romance From Delivery Driver

A former model living in Wolverhampton has been left fearing for her safety. 

How?

Well, let’s just say it’s a little creepy.

A delivery driver from Iceland felt it was a good idea to send her a romantic proposal by text message.

This was following a delivery slot when he dropped off her groceries. 

The lady in question was clinically vulnerable and didn’t feel comfortable shopping in-store at groceries during the height of the pandemic.

She found herself feeling vulnerable in other ways, too. 

Now, the scenario might sound harmless to some, but to a woman living on her own, it can be quite frankly, rather scary.

This delivery driver not only knew her name, and her number but due to the nature of his work, also knew where she lived.

Yet, she knew nothing about him.

Whilst it may sound like a good idea on paper, these sorts of messages should really be thought through properly.

Especially if your idea of a lovely date is proposing to meet in the local park the next day.

Not dodgy at all, mate.

The poor lady felt so vulnerable and overwhelmed by the situation that she sought legal action.

Whilst nothing has come of it so far, let’s hope it’s certainly enough to scare off others from a copycat scenario. 

Another Day, Another Deliver Driver Inappropriate Advance

Over in Fife, a van driver has had to go to court.

Yep, you guessed it – another shady proposal made to an innocent woman.

This time it was in broad daylight. 

This delivery man thought he’d try his hand at a far more sinister request, and went straight to asking for an exchange in monies, and well…

We’ll let you guess the rest.

He then had the audacity to pretend he had a brain tumour and didn’t have long to live.

We didn’t think people actually used that as a line in real life. 

Let’s Keep Things Professional

If you are also disgusted by the above story and abhor this kind of behaviour, then you’re probably one of the good ones.

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Delivery Driver Writes a Book

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So, what did you get up to during the pandemic lockdowns?

Oh, nothing much, delivered groceries and wrote a book, you?

…is what we would be saying if our name was Paul Lang. 

So, who is Paul Lang anyway?

Ever heard of a book called From Hollywood to Cricklewood? It’s been out since last year and you can purchase it through Apple Books for a few quid.

It follows Paul Lang on his adventures of being a delivery driver during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Whilst this is an interesting fact anyway, what makes it even better is that Paul Lang used to be a documentary filmmaker. 

When his usual documentary work came to a halt due to lockdowns and restrictions, Paul decided to become a delivery driver to Tesco. He quickly discovered the job was far more eventful than most people realised. As his day-to-day progressed, his occasionally challenging journeys led him to meet an array of people. 

Paul’s documented experiences are sometimes wholesome, and sometimes difficult. Not what most people would expect happens in the day of a delivery driver.

Certainly a stark difference to what he used to do; filming in locations like Angola, Iraq and Dunkirk. Don’t let anyone say life as a delivery driver doesn’t come with its risks and joys – especially during a worldwide pandemic!

Share your experiences with us

So, who here has read Paul Lang’s book then? Whilst we maybe didn’t have as exciting jobs as Paul prior to becoming delivery drivers, perhaps you may have read about his experiences.

If so, what did you think? Are you able to relate to any of the events in his book? Did you experience similar situations during lockdowns? Meet anyone in a hazmat suit, or share a teacake with a lovely, old lady?

We’d love to hear all about it and perhaps share your stories. So please leave a comment and let us know.
In return, we can offer something valuable, too. How about some cheap insurance for that ol’ van of yours? With some of the cheapest van insurance deals around, you can get started by completing this form. It takes just 3 minutes!

Flames, Frames and Freemen

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Should Freeman pay for Van Insurance?

We’re only two weeks into January, yet the headlines surrounding van drivers seem to become stranger and stranger…

Let’s start with news from Wales.

This story isn’t as weird as it is disturbing, so get ready to grit your teeth. 

Flames And Frames In Wales

Unfortunately, desperation can often get the best of us, but for Mr Sean Clarke, it’s safe to say it consumed him. 

In a hopeless bid to cash out on an insurance claim, Mr Clarke thought he would try to frame one of his friends for setting a van alight.

Not just any old van mind, but a lovely Vauxhall Combo van.

The clearly troubled Mr Clarke had hoped his story of his giving the van’s keys to his friend would suffice with the authorities, but of course, it wasn’t.

The police followed up quite thoroughly and came to the obvious conclusion that Mr Clarke had, in fact, set the van on fire himself.

With 12 offences under his belt already, we sincerely hope Mr Clarke gets the help he needs to turn his life around.

To read more about this story, you can catch it here.

Freemen Of The Land Should Pay For Their Van Insurance Too

So, here is where it starts to get strange.

The first thing we should do is disregard the plural here.

This story is more about a ‘Freeman’ rather than a bunch of them. 

In Staffordshire’s Woodville, police had a laugh after stopping a van driver without insurance.

The driver claimed that as a “Freeman of the land”, he did not require van insurance.

In his head, simply refusing to consent to the laws in the UK meant he didn’t have to follow them. 

Sure, sure… Makes total sense.

Unfortunately for the “Freeman”, the police officers did not see it his way.

This inevitably led to a lot of police time wasted after he refused to exit the van, but he was arrested in the end. His lovely black Vauxhall was also seized, too.

If you’d like to read more about the “Freeman”, you can do so right here.

I’m No Freeman Or Flameman, But Would Like Cheap Van Insurance Deals, Please

Well, it’s good to have you on board, friends.

If you’re a simpler person like us and would rather avoid the hassles of flames, framing and Freemen, then you’re in the right place.

We’re here to treat you to the best and cheapest van insurance deals around.

All it takes to begin your journey is to complete this quick 3-minute form.

Highway Code Updates Every Van Driver Must Know

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Changes To The Highway Code: What Every Van Driver Needs To Know

Many UK motorists assume The Highway Code applies only to car drivers.

But here’s the truth:

Anyone who qualifies as a “road user” must observe these rules. And yes, that includes van drivers.

If you don’t want surprises when the rules go live on the 29th of January, read on.

What is The Highway Code?

Let’s get straight to it.

The Highway Code is, without a doubt, your essential guide for road safety rules.

Not only does it include valuable advice and clear guidance, but—most importantly—it also lays out mandatory regulations for all road users.

Whether you’re behind the wheel of a van, car, or on two wheels, these rules apply.

For those looking to dive deeper, you can explore the full details of The Highway Code online.

But we’ll break down what you need to know here.

What’s Changing in The Highway Code?

If you’ve heard talk about these updates sparking debate, you’re not alone.

Concerns are rising that these changes might lead to more accidents, especially if drivers aren’t aware.

Let’s break down the main updates:

Pedestrians And Cyclists First

From now on, pedestrians and cyclists—often referred to as vulnerable road users—will, in fact, have priority at both junctions and crossings.

Translation?

Even if you’re running late, they come first. So, pay extra attention.

The “Dutch Reach” For Van Drivers

Here’s an important one:

Van drivers must now use the “Dutch reach” to open their doors.

This method ensures you look over your shoulder before opening, helping to keep pedestrians safe.

More Room For Cyclists

Cyclists need space—minimum 1.5 metres when you overtake them. And if you’re going over 30mph, give them even more.

Stricter Mobile Phone Rules

The rules on mobile phones just got tighter.

Don’t take photos. Don’t record videos. And don’t change songs.

Even if you’re stopped at a red light.

Using your mobile in these ways could lead to a fine.

 

Need a visual guide to these updates?

This tweet from Scots explains the hierarchy, with clear visuals.

What Should You Do Now?

Now that you’re in the know, it’s simple:

Follow these rules once they come into force.

If you find yourself breaking them, you may need decent van insurance.

That’s where we can help – it’s cheap, too.

Simply begin by completing this quick 3-minute form.

New Year, New You?

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This one is dedicated to all those van drivers who are working on New Year’s Day. Bank holiday? What bank holiday?

Whilst we know many of you will be breathing a sigh of relief because the roads should be emptier, it’s easy to become complacent over the festive season. 

So, for that reason, we thought we’d provide you with a few reminders of some lesser-known rules, should the urge to rule break or road rage rise.

Keep the expletives to yourself

Though the roads may be clearer, that doesn’t quite mean that there aren’t some terrible motorists out there. However, no matter how bad you think their driving is, try not to let the swear words be heard beyond your own van.

In fact, if you’re found to be a persistent offender of swearing at other drivers, you could find yourself slapped with a fine of up to £1,000. No one wants to welcome in a new year with that.

Leave the fur babies at home

As tempting as it is to bring your loyal companion out on the road with you, you may want to rethink it. 

If your dog is loose in your van, you could be facing a penalty of up to £200. This is because a loose animal in your vehicle could cause you to lose control whilst driving. Even if old Quincy the poodle naps for 75% of the day, it just isn’t worth it, is it? Plus, you get to keep your lovely van fur free.

Leave the horns for the musicians

Here’s one that isn’t known that well at all, and it’s one that we believe a lot of people may be guilty of. 

Ever felt the need to thump down on that horn incessantly? Or seen anyone else do it? Tying in nicely with road rage antics, beeping the horn excessively will result in a lovely fixed fine of £30. 

Now, that doesn’t seem like much, but it all adds up. Especially when we’re tentatively driving into the new year. 

This year, I’m wishing for cheap van insurance deals

As helpful as ever, we’re also providing assistance for those of you looking to purchase cheaper van insurance deals this year. 

Start the new year off right—and just in time for 2022. You can get started right now by completing this quick 3-minute form. 

Christmas Cheer from Cheap Van Insurance

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It’s that time of year again. 

Whilst the majority of Brits are feeling festive, most delivery drivers are fighting a war against thieves.

You only have to turn on the news to hear about several delivery drivers once again being attacked by thieves. Unfortunately, the seasonal holidays increase this danger. 

In Birmingham, just last week, nearly 100 packages were stolen from a Hermes delivery van. You just know that the van was undoubtedly full of Christmas gifts, too. Thankfully the driver was left unhurt, but she is most likely right in thinking she was targeted, as well as followed.

This comes from a string of reports of parcels also being stolen from many customers’ doorsteps. Some people just want to watch the world burn, don’t they?

Remember folks, it’s best to keep your van locked and keys secured at all times. Even if it’s a 5-second jolt to the customer’s doors. A thief can use any amount of time to their advantage.

Delivery drivers haven’t had the kindest treatment this year, so here is another post dedicated to you, and your vans.

Below, you will find a Christmas poem that will hopefully provide you with some cheer, but it’s also a dedication to our delivery driver heroes. 

Enjoy, and from all of us here at Cheap Van Insurance, a very Merry Christmas to all our readers and customers! 

P.s. if you have wished for cheaper van insurance deals for Christmas this year, use this form to see what cost-busting deals you can get.

A Delivery Driver’s Christmas

In the lead up to Christmas Day

Many are at home, awaiting deliveries

Busy delivery drivers are working away

Hitting impossible targets, but how?

It’s a mystery

We applaud their vigour

And vigilance too

For thieves will be watching

Awaiting their cue

Criminals will try to steal your gifts

But delivery drivers stand firm,

Work crazy shifts,

and provide lifts

To your children’s presents

Making burglars hiss

They fight off the thieves,

Through staying alert

And protecting your package

Though some may get hurt

So this Christmas

We salute the true Santa Claus

They are our delivery drivers

Who deserve rounds of applause

Holiday Hazards: Why Dogs Are a Real Threat to Delivery Drivers

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The Hidden Hazards Delivery Drivers Face During The Holidays

It’s a story as old as time:

The family dog charges at an unsuspecting postman.

When we think of dogs and Christmas, this probably isn’t the first image that comes to mind.

More often, people say, “Dogs aren’t just for Christmas.”

But for delivery drivers, the holiday season can bring a different kind of worry.

Why Dogs Pose A Unique Threat To Delivery Drivers

No matter how cute or friendly a dog might appear, their instincts can still take you by surprise.

For certain dogs, the sight of a delivery driver’s fingers slipping through the letterbox quickly registers as an unwelcome intrusion.

In fact, just recently, we stumbled upon the story of a Scotsman who has learned this lesson firsthand.

Real Stories: When Friendly Fidos Turn Fierce

Glen Morgan, a veteran delivery driver for Hermes, has had his share of run-ins with canines.

In his eight years on the job, he’s been attacked four times.

His first encounter was especially severe—requiring stitches and a tetanus shot.

A Neighborhood Hazard That’s Hard To Avoid

Most delivery drivers know which homes in their neighborhood have aggressive dogs.

But here’s the thing:

In most cases, there’s very little a driver can do aside from hoping that the owners will keep their pets secured and out of reach.

Not exactly what you’d want on your Christmas wish list, is it?

The Unexpected Danger Of Surprise Attacks

And then, there are the sneak attacks.

Unpredictable and startling, these can be the most nerve-wracking of all.

For many, non-contact delivery during the pandemic brought a sense of relief.

According to Royal Mail, dog attacks on their delivery staff dropped by 31% with non-contact delivery.

Staying Safe: Resources And Advice For Drivers

Royal Mail has a helpful resource—the “Dog Awareness” page—for posties looking to stay safe.

Here, you’ll find:

  • Tips for drivers on handling dog encounters
  • Advice for dog owners to prevent incidents
  • Case studies like Glen Morgan’s

You can even see which areas in the UK are the worst for dog attacks on delivery drivers.

A Final Word Of Caution For The Holiday Season

As the Christmas rush ramps up, delivery drivers work harder than ever.

The moral of the story?

Be cautious and aware of your surroundings—especially when dogs are nearby.

One last tip:

Don’t let your van insurance renewal ruin Christmas, either.

We’ll leave you with a helpful tip.

Don’t let your van insurance renewal ruin Christmas either. Get it out of the way and check out our cheap van insurance deals. It takes just 3 minutes.

Meet the Green Drivers Enjoying Van Life

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A pair of mates from Southend are currently living their best lives in a van.

Now, they’re encouraging you to do the same. 

If you’re a user of Instagram, you may already be aware of the van-loving Southend duo.

Their page “themtbvanlife” has amassed nearly 13 and a half followers (as of this moment).

Their purpose is to try to inspire people to go on adventures with minimal items — for example, just their van and electric bikes. 

They are also setting a good example.

Their van has been modified to include solar panels, making it easier to get their e-bikes charged, and the van to run more efficiently.

You gotta love it when we’re kinder to the planet, don’t ya?

The men, who are in their late twenties, work in the IT sector.

Since converting the van to be a good runner, and a decent place to live in as they travel.

They have travelled all over the UK and even into Europe (mainland). 

Their main goal isn’t to promote vehicle use (unless you’re exceptionally eco-friendly).

Instead, they encourage exploring by e-bike once you reach your destination.

Sensible, we think, especially as the bikes continue to be charged in the super van.

Being off-grid is what appeals to the lads: Sam Rook and Luke Dokic.

And they seem to be doing it very well, as their Instagram following suggests.

What do you reckon?

Could you go off-grid with just a van and bike as a means for travel?

Then again, if you compare the environmental impact of a plane to this, it’s probably much better.

Susan from next door doesn’t think she could do it.

But then she does have her budgies to think about.

But if you feel like this is certainly something you could consider, then we would highly recommend you follow the boys’ feed.

Lots of pleasing van stuff, too. 

Oh, and Sam and Luke, if you’re reading this…

Did you know we could save you a load on your van insurance?

In fact, we can save any van owner a bunch.

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Unruly Van Drivers Give Us a Bad Name

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Stop. Please, stop. You know who you are. 

This week, we’ve heard of quite a few instances that have been rather… Well, out of the ordinary. Let’s start off with one that’s perhaps slightly more light-hearted.

Asda Delivery Driver Down in the Dumps

Yet another viral video has been doing the rounds across the internet involving an unfortunate van driver. 

This time, it isn’t in favour of the delivery driver either, unlike this lucky fella.

Let’s cut to the chase. When we’re referring to ‘dumps’, we mean a very certain kind. Try it as a verb, and in the colloquial sense. Yep, it’s true. 

This unlucky delivery driver for Asda was caught doing his business (a number 2, to be precise) OUTSIDE A CUSTOMER’S HOME. No, we’re not kidding. He even had a handy roll of toilet paper sat on the front seat of his van. Makes you think, doesn’t it? Does he make a habit out of this? We truly hope not.

Although he thinks he may have got away with it, the poor driver was unaware he’d been filmed by the customer. And so, he went viral across various social media channels. Asda picked up on it, of course, and is now trying to locate the driver. 

Be honest. Is it you?

Bolting from the Police in Bolton

Look, if you fancy yourself as one of the drivers in the Fast and Furious, it’s best to hire out a car and take it to a track. What we don’t recommend, is using your van to try to run from the police, of all people. 

This bold driver from Bolton tried to get away from the police and ignored all signs to stop. We don’t think that’s what the manufacturers had in mind when they made Ford Transit Vans, mate. No wonder he got caught.

Naturally, the van driver has been fined and had points added to his licence. Next time, we recommend just renewing your licence, and perhaps you won’t be stopped. So, let’s not go getting any ideas, yeah?

Good Van Drivers Keep Reading

If we’ve got you thinking about your licence and how it may need renewing soon, then hey, you’re already in the right place! 

We have the cheapest van insurance deals here for you. Begin by completing this quick 3-minute form.

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Complete your quick and easy quote

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