Tag: cheapest van insurance

Should We Be Cautious Of Driverless Vans?

Posted on by News Desk

You may have heard the recent rumors of the latest government plans surrounding driverless cars.

If you haven’t, allow us to help:

The UK plans to legalise driverless cars later this year.

However, there are some people out there who fear this could bring a whole range of additional headaches.

While some people feel that this move aims to keep drivers safer out there.

others feel it could be distracting.

The government believes road safety could be improved by a reduction in human error,

which causes over 85% of road accidents.

However, necessary training will need to be deployed for anyone considering using self-driving vehicles,

which could bring about a busier workload to some industries.

At the moment, there are only plans for driverless cars to allow assistance for speeds that go up to 37 miles per hour,

and on motorways.

However, just like with cruise control options on some motors,

handing over control to your vehicle doesn’t mean you will be free to do something else.

The same laws apply,

so you can’t use your mobile phone (unless hands-free),

or start eating that KFC you just picked up from Peterborough services.

You will still need to keep full attention on the road.

Should the requirement be there, drivers will need to be able to take control of their vans immediately. 

At the moment, we are waiting for changes to the Highway Code,

and other laws to come into place before any of this can happen.

Others say vigorous testing needs to happen before allowing these plans to come to fruition, too.

Some argue that self-driving vehicles aren’t always the safest options, as a recent Tesla crash has shown. 

So, should we allow technology to fully take control of our wheels?

How do you think it might affect your industry?

If you drive a van for your job, you might welcome this information.

On the other hand, do you feel autonomous vans might be a step too far?

Let us know your thoughts!

For us, vans with drivers, or without, we’re concerned with giving you the best deals.

So, you can bet that we’ve got you covered with the cheapest van insurance deals around.

£17k For Using Your Home Toilet? Every Little Helps…

Posted on by News Desk

Okay, so Tesco is not paying their delivery drivers £17,000 to use their home toilet, unfortunately.

If they were, well then sign my partner up, because I’m certain he would end up bankrupting the company.

I’m sure all delivery drivers have been there.

You’ve still got a couple of deliveries to go, and you’re suddenly bursting to use the loo.

What do you do when these situations arise?

Especially if you work for Tesco, whose vans have tracker systems fitted.

This means they can check up on you every 5 minutes or so, alongside monitoring your speed and location.

Well, for one Tesco delivery worker, his solution was his home toilet.

Nothing too crude here, thank you.

This week’s tale fuels itself with justice and a hefty £17k package.

Tesco’s Scottish branch awarded Billy Fitzsimmons £17k in compensation after his unfair dismissal.

Due to his ailments, he required to use the toilet far more than your average person.

An employment tribunal ordered Tesco to pay Mr Fitzsimmons for not taking his medical problems into consideration.

His employer penalised him for using his toilet at home, even though he only stopped by between deliveries.

After discovering these stops, his boss learned about his urinary tract infection and enlarged prostate, which required urgent restroom access.

However, Tesco bosses claimed they were not aware that Mr Fitzsimmons also experienced incontinence.

Although they were aware of his other illnesses.

Unfortunately, he’d also had to visit home on some occasions to change. 

After conducting his business at home, Mr Fitzsimmons would wait in his delivery van until he had to drop off groceries to the next client.

Nothing wrong with that, right?

Deliveries were always made in a timely manner, and not a single person ever made a complaint against him.

Discrimination against disability isn’t a joke.

Fortunately for Mr Fitzsimmons, the judges agreed with him.

Hopefully, many of you will not have faced an illness or a situation like this, but I’m sure we can relate to needing the toilet after a long drive.

We wish Mr Fitzsimmons the best, and if he ever requires cheap van insurance for another role, we’re here to help!

Long Drives? Back Pain? Here’s Some Advice.

Posted on by News Desk

Long Drives and Back Pain

How to Stay Comfortable On The Road

We’ve all felt the burn of a long drive.

Whether it’s in a shiny new van or a reliable old one, those hours take a toll.

Sitting in the same position for hours isn’t easy.

And, let’s be honest, back pain doesn’t care about age.

But here’s some good news.

Simon Reynolds, a former driver performance manager at Formula One McLaren,

knows a thing or two about avoiding back pain.

Now a sports therapist, Reynolds has shared his best tips to help you stay comfortable on those long drives.

Start With Seat Ergonomics

Before you even step into your vehicle, take a moment for seat adjustments.

Why?

Preventing back and neck pain begins with full visibility of the road and easy mirror access.

Check your mirrors—they should require just a simple, comfortable glance.

Recline For Spinal Support

Next, consider reclining your seat back just enough to support your spine.

An unsupported head leads to tension, and an unsupported upper spine only adds to the discomfort.

Above all, remember lumbar support.

Without it, the pelvis can shift backward, putting stress on your lower back over time.

Choose The Right Seat Cushion

Did you know that seat cushions come in various shapes and padding options?

Surprisingly, many car seats don’t provide adequate lower back support.

By adding a thin cushion, however, you can help maintain the natural curve in your lower back.

This small adjustment may not only reduce discomfort but also help prevent medical issues over time.

Perfect Your Leg Position

Leg positioning is crucial.

The seat should support your legs without forcing them to stretch too far.

Contrary to popular belief, your leg shouldn’t be fully outstretched when pressing the pedal.

Instead, aim for a slight bend in your leg when braking or accelerating.

And keep your bottom snug against the driver’s seat.

Find Your Best Steering Position

For optimal steering, keep your elbows slightly bent.

But lock your shoulders back against the seat.

If this feels off, adjust the steering wheel height for a more natural fit.

Take Regular Breaks For Physical And Mental Health

The most important tip?

Take breaks.

Ideally, stop every hour for a quick stretch or a short walk.

These breaks help prevent aches and keep your body in good shape for the road ahead.

With these tips, you’re set for a more comfortable, healthier drive.

So, will you be trying these tips?

Whether it’s in your comfy new van or an old banger, we hope it helps you in some way.

At least you can rest easy and search for cheap van insurance deals with us, without breaking the bank (or, your back).

Transit Drivers, Get Ready for Smart Mirrors

Posted on by News Desk

Why Ford’s New Smart Mirror Is A Game-Changer For Van Drivers

When you’re behind the wheel of a van, you often have a limited view behind. Think smart mirror.

Even with side mirrors, there’s always that lingering question: is something lurking just out of sight?

Whether it’s a cyclist, a pedestrian, or a car sneaking up behind, these blind spots create real challenges.

But here’s the good news:

Ford has developed a solution to make driving safer and easier.

They call it the Smart Mirror.

Meet The Ford Smart Mirror

Ford’s Smart Mirror is designed specifically for their Transit vans and Transit Custom vans.

Unlike regular mirrors, this one shows a live video feed from the back of your van.

You might ask, why does this matter?

Most vans have limited rear visibility—especially when loaded with cargo or missing rear windows.

Blind spots can make driving tricky, especially for van drivers.

With the Smart Mirror, you’ll see exactly what’s behind your van in real-time, giving you peace of mind.

How Does the Smart Mirror Work?

The Smart Mirror replaces the standard rearview mirror with a digital display.

A camera mounted on the van’s rear door sends a live feed directly to the mirror.

This setup allows you to monitor everything trailing behind your van without obstructions.

Even if your van has opaque rear doors or a packed cargo area, the view stays clear.

And there’s more.

Automatic Brightness Control For Any Time Of Day

The Smart Mirror adjusts brightness automatically.

This means no more struggling with glare from the sun or dim lighting at night.

You’ll always have a clear view, whether it’s daylight or dusk.

Twice The View Of A Standard Mirror

Ford’s Smart Mirror offers double the visual range of a typical rearview mirror.

This increased range means more visibility and a better sense of your surroundings.

And when you’re aware of what’s around you, you can drive with more confidence.

What’s The Cost Ff Enhanced Safety?

Like any advanced tech, the Smart Mirror isn’t cheap.

If you’re interested, be prepared for a price tag of around £675.

Yes, it’s an investment, but for the added safety and visibility, many drivers may find it worth every penny.

How To Save On Van Insurance And Upgrade Your Safety

Considering the Smart Mirror?

You might want to start by reducing other expenses—like your van insurance.

With savings on insurance, you could invest in this cutting-edge mirror, adding an extra layer of safety to your daily drive.

Safety on the road starts with visibility.

And with Ford’s Smart Mirror, you’ll have more of it than ever before.

Save on your van insurance costs with us here, and perhaps you can use the rest of your savings on a brand-new sparkling Smart Mirror.

DPD CEO Dismissed Amid Controversy: What It Means for Van Drivers

Posted on by News Desk

Chief Executive Of DPD Waves Goodbye

But if you’re a van driver for DPD, you may be caught off guard by the latest news about the company.

This week, Dwain McDonald, the CEO of DPD, has reportedly been dismissed.

In his place, Yves Delmas is stepping in temporarily until a permanent replacement is found.

Why was McDonald let go?

An internal investigation claims his departure is due to “personal conduct reasons.”

Shocking News For DPD Staff

McDonald has held the chief executive role since 2008.

For many at DPD, the news came as a complete shock.

They were informed by an email from Yves Delmas.

The message stated McDonald’s departure was effective immediately but offered no further explanation.

McDonald’s Long Tenure With DPD

Though he’s leaving, McDonald’s career at DPD has been substantial.

He joined the company back when they still called it Parceline.

At just 22, he started as a sales executive and worked his way up.

Over the years, McDonald earned a £1 million annual salary, a sign of his loyalty to DPD.

Past Controversy Resurfaces

In 2018, McDonald faced scrutiny when a recording surfaced.

In the recording, he admitted to breaking the law.

He claimed he used his mobile phone to photograph a DPD van while driving on the motorway.

For a CEO of a delivery firm, this raised eyebrows.

The Covid-19 Surge In Demand

As the pandemic unfolded, demand for delivery services skyrocketed.

Many Brits, facing layoffs or redundancy, applied for delivery driver roles.

With a surge in online shopping, DPD promised to add 6,000 more delivery drivers to keep up.

DPD: A Delivery Giant In The UK

Did you know you’re part of one of Europe’s largest delivery firms if you’re a driver at DPD?

DPD has 68 locations across the UK.

Each year, it delivers over 250 million packages for some of the biggest retail brands.

The company’s scale is immense, and so are the expectations.

As DPD moves forward, the search for a new leader begins.

DPD uses over 8,000 delivery vehicles, so is your van one of the 8,000 needing cheaper van insurance?

Look no further.

You’re in the right place.

Why More Women Are Joining The Transport Industry Amid Covid-19

Posted on by News Desk

Yesterday marked International Women’s Day.

Is It Time For More Women In The Transport Industry?

Did you take a moment to celebrate the incredible women in your life?

The pandemic, unfortunately, hasn’t helped in closing the gender gap—especially around pay and employment.

In fact, Covid-19 has impacted women’s jobs disproportionately.

Women have been hit harder by redundancy, business closures, and increased home responsibilities.

Many had to become full-time caregivers when schools shut down.

Male-Dominated vs. Female-Dominated Industries

Male-dominated fields saw hiring slowdowns during the pandemic.

But the impact on female-dominated industries has been staggering.

Sectors like beauty and weddings felt a major hit due to restrictions.

This shift may be why more women are now exploring careers as couriers.

When you think of a white van or delivery driver, do you picture a woman at the wheel?

Why not?

The culture is shifting, and Covid-19 is sparking that change.

Leading The Way In Gender Representation

This week, Scotland set an example in pushing for gender equality in transport.

M&H Carriers, a Scottish transport company, is working to improve gender representation.

Even though women make up 47% of the UK workforce, only 20% work in transport.

But M&H Carriers aims to change that.

Women hold over half of the senior roles at the company.

Their goal?

To break down stereotypes of transport as a male-only field.

They hope more women will begin to see it as a viable career.

The Arts Moving Into Transport

The Arts industry also faced huge setbacks due to Covid-19.

Many artists turned to the delivery industry, stepping into key worker roles.

For example, a trombonist took a job at Yodel.

She spoke of the respect she gained for delivery drivers’ hard work.

A violinist also joined the industry, delivering for Waitrose.

Despite qualifying for government grants, she couldn’t sit idle.

Her new role helped her stay motivated, and she even volunteered at a charity shop on weekends.

Delivery Work: Challenging But Rewarding

As many of you know, delivery driving isn’t easy.

The demands have only grown over the past year and show no signs of slowing.

Yet, we welcome more women to join this vital industry.

Let’s continue fighting for gender equality, together.

For any women considering the delivery field, remember:

You’ll need more than standard van insurance to get started.

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