Sometimes, it’s easy to forget: not everyone has your driving experience.
But here’s the kicker:
Rushing or losing patience with slower vehicles can turn you into a dangerous statistic.
Van drivers, especially those driving for business, spend countless hours on the road.
It’s easy to become complacent.
But think about this:
At just 30mph, taking your eyes off the road for TWO seconds means you’ve traveled 90 feet.
That’s the length of two double-decker buses.
And during those 90 feet?
Your focus isn’t on the road. It’s elsewhere.
Now, let that sink in.
Scary, right?
This makes it crucial to familiarise yourself with your vehicle—especially if you’re transitioning from a car to a van.
All Vehicles Are Not Created Equal
The first thing you’ll notice in a van?
No rear-view mirror.
Obvious, right? Vans don’t have a rear window.
But here’s the good news:
You’ve got wing mirrors. And not just any wing mirrors—most come equipped with blind-spot mirrors.
Forget about looking over your shoulder. In a van, it’s all about using those mirrors.
Here’s something cool:
Ford has developed a “smart mirror.”
It looks like a rear-view mirror but shows live footage from a rear camera.
It adjusts brightness based on the time of day and provides a wider viewing angle.
Perfect if you’re still getting used to your van’s size.
Adjusting To Van-Specific Features
Brakes in a van?
They’re a whole different beast.
Light load? No load? You’ll notice they feel sharper than car brakes.
Take your time. You’ll adjust.
Now, let’s talk speed.
Vans follow different speed limits.
On single or dual carriageways, they’re often 10mph slower than cars.
But here’s the thing:
Just because it’s the limit doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Always drive to the road conditions.
Arrive safely. Every time.
If you are transitioning from a car to a van, you might want to ensure you’re adequately insured by completing this quick 3-minute form.
