Tag: van drivers

Why UK Tradespeople Are Travelling Further For Better Pay And More Work

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

The world of van-driving tradespeople is changing fast.

New research reveals a clear shift across the UK.

More and more tradespeople are travelling further than ever before.

Why?

Because the rewards are too good to ignore.

Higher pay.

More jobs.

Bigger opportunities.

But with this shift comes a new challenge.

More miles means more risk — and that makes van insurance more important than ever.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

  • Why tradespeople in the UK are driving further for work.
  • The biggest reasons for this dramatic shift.
  • How longer journeys impact van insurance costs.
  • The smart strategies every tradesperson should use.
  • Why cheap van insurance matters more than ever.

The Rise Of The Travelling Tradespeople

UK tradespeople are on the move.

According to a new survey, 63% of van-driving workers now travel over 30 miles more than when they started their current role.

That’s a massive increase.

But it doesn’t stop there.

The research, based on 500 tradespeople, shows that most are willing to travel an average of 31.7 additional miles for work.

Let that sink in.

This isn’t a small shift.

It’s a complete change in how tradespeople operate.

In fact, nearly 70% of those surveyed said they expect to widen their travel radius even further in the next five years.

Why is this happening?

Let’s take a closer look.

Why Are Tradespeople Willing To Travel Further?

The short answer?

Money.

Better pay was the number one reason given by 61% of respondents.

But that’s not all.

Many tradespeople also cited increased job opportunities (56%) and a desire to grow their client base (43%).

It makes sense.

As a result of higher competition in local areas, tradespeople are now forced to expand their reach.

After all, why stay local when the bigger jobs — and better pay — are further away?

It’s a clear trend.

And it’s only going to accelerate.

But it doesn’t come without challenges.

The Impact On Van Drivers

More miles mean more expenses.

It’s not just about fuel.

Longer journeys put extra strain on your van.

Tyres wear out faster.

Servicing costs rise.

And let’s not forget about van insurance.

The more you drive, the higher your risk.

That’s exactly why tradespeople need to stay one step ahead.

Flexible working brings flexible risks.

Your insurance should reflect that.

Want to check if your policy is still right for your driving habits?

A guide on checking your insurance policy is here.

Temporary Van Insurance Could Be The Answer

For tradespeople taking on occasional long-distance work, there’s a smart solution.

Temporary van insurance.

This type of policy offers flexible cover for short-term needs.

No need to commit to a full annual policy if you’re only taking on the odd far-away project.

It’s fast.

It’s cost-effective.

And it can save you serious money in the long run.

But that’s not all.

Temporary van insurance can also give peace of mind for unexpected jobs or one-off projects.

Want to know more about how temporary van insurance works?

Find out how new drivers can access van insurance options here.

How Tradespeople Can Prepare For Longer Journeys

Of course, travelling further isn’t just about jumping in your van and hitting the road.

Instead, it requires a smart plan.

After all, longer journeys can quickly drain your time, money, and energy.

That’s why tradespeople need to take action before those miles add up.

Here’s how to stay ahead:

  • First, use route-planning apps to avoid traffic and wasted fuel.
  • Secondly, group nearby jobs together to cut down on unnecessary driving.
  • Moreover, always factor travel time and fuel costs into your quotes.
  • Finally, schedule regular van maintenance to avoid breakdowns miles from home.

As a result, these small steps can save you money and protect your van from wear and tear.

Even better?

They help you stay competitive while taking on long-distance work.

Want to cut costs further? See the essential insight into soaring van costs.

Why Cheap Van Insurance Matters More Than Ever

Because tradespeople are travelling further, risks on the road increase too.

More miles mean more exposure to accidents, breakdowns, and theft.

Therefore, having the right van insurance has never been more important.

Without it, you could lose far more than just fuel money.

This is exactly why cheap van insurance UK policies are essential.

Not only do they protect your van, but they also protect your income and your reputation.

Even so, not all insurance deals are the same.

That’s why you should compare policies regularly to find cover that fits your changing needs.

Moreover, you may want to explore flexible options like temporary van insurance if your workload varies.

Want the best deals on very cheap van insurance?

Start comparing now at Cheap Van Insurance UK.

Conclusion

In summary, tradespeople across the UK are travelling further than ever before.

Why?

Because better pay and bigger job opportunities often lie beyond their local area.

However, longer journeys come with extra responsibilities.

More miles mean more risks.

Therefore, it’s essential to stay organised, plan smarter, and review your van insurance regularly.

After all, protecting your van is protecting your livelihood.

For even more ways to save money and stay safe on the road, check out these useful guides:

Negligent Workman Causes Collision When Ladder Falls Off Van

Posted on by News Desk

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.

Van Insurance Rates Soar by 15.5% – What’s Behind the Spike?

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

Van insurance has become significantly more expensive in the past year.

With an increase of 15.5% for new business customers, according to the latest Consumer Intelligence Van Insurance Price Index.

Why does this matter?

Rising Costs And Regulations Drive Up Van Insurance Prices

The average quoted cost for van insurance in the UK is now £1,129.

But wait, there’s more…

Prices have dropped 3.3% in the past three months and are below the record high hit in September 2022.

A Recent Dip In Van Insurance Prices

So, what’s the catch?

Despite this recent dip in prices, the overall trend remains upward.

Being driven by rising claims costs and new pricing regulations by the Financial Conduct Authority.

You’re probably wondering why…

The cost of claims is increasing due to the impact of inflation on parts, labour, and replacement vehicles,

as well as the increase in traffic on the roads after the pandemic lull.

What does this mean for you?

In response, insurers are raising premiums to cover these costs, with overall market premiums up 30.8% year-on-year.

Older Van Drivers Pay Significantly Less Than Their Younger Counterparts

Here’s a shocking truth:

The ban on “price walking” was introduced by the FCA a year ago.

It prevents insurers from quoting higher renewal prices to existing customers than new customers.

How does this affect you?

This has led to higher renewal prices for all van drivers.

However, older van drivers aged 50 and over are still paying significantly less than their younger counterparts.

With an annual policy costing just £691 compared to a prohibitively high £3,153 for drivers under 25.

Business Users Paying Higher Premiums

Wondering if this applies to business van users?

Average premiums have now increased 52.4% since April 2014 when Consumer Intelligence first started collecting data.

With prices peaking in September 2022 and now sitting just 5% below the all-time high.

But here’s the kicker…

Business users are now paying slightly higher annual premiums than those who use their vehicles as a car substitute under ‘social, domestic,

and pleasure’ policies, likely due to spending more time on the road and their vehicles being more technologically advanced.

So, what can you do about it?

Despite rising prices, van insurance remains a necessary expense for many drivers, particularly those who use their vans for business purposes.

However, it is worth shopping around to find the best deal and considering ways to reduce the cost of premiums,

such as increasing the voluntary excess, improving security measures, and building a no-claims bonus.

Conclusion

Van insurance prices have increased significantly in the past year due to rising claims costs and new pricing regulations by the FCA,

But don’t lose hope!

There are some signs of improvement with a recent drop in prices.

The bottom line?

Older drivers are paying significantly less than younger drivers.

It is important for all drivers to shop around for the best deal and consider ways to reduce their premiums.

Van Drivers “Twice As Likely” To Use A Mobile While Driving

Posted on by News Desk

Introduction

The use of mobile phones while driving is a growing concern.

Recent studies have shown that van drivers are “twice as likely” to use their phones while behind the wheel compared to car drivers.

This dangerous behaviour puts the lives of drivers and other road users at risk.

It could also have significant consequences for van drivers’ insurance policies.

Demands Of The Job Versus The Dangers Of Distracted Driving

One of the main reasons for the high rate of mobile phone use among van drivers is the demanding nature of their job.

Van drivers often need to make calls, send text messages, or use GPS navigation while on the road.

They may feel that they need to be constantly connected to perform their job effectively.

However, the use of a mobile phone while driving is dangerous and illegal, and it increases the risk of accidents on the road.

The High Cost Of Mobile Phone Use For Van Drivers

The dangers of using a mobile phone while driving are well documented.

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents on the road.

Using a mobile phone takes a driver’s attention away from the road, even for just a few seconds.

This can result in a crash, and it can also result in a fine or loss of points on a driver’s licence.

Furthermore, using a mobile phone while driving can also be a criminal offence.

This can carry a jail sentence and also have an impact on a van driver’s insurance policy.

Insurance companies consider a driver’s behavior when setting policy prices.

They view using a mobile phone while driving as high-risk behavior.

Insurance companies can void a policy if they find the driver at fault.

This might make the driver liable for paying for the damages and injuries from an accident, which could be financially devastating.

How To Reduce The Use Of Mobile Phones While Driving Among Van Driver In the UK

One solution is to increase enforcement of the law through increased police presence on the road.

And the use of technology such as cameras that can detect mobile phone use while driving.

Employers can also play a role in reducing mobile phone use among their employees by setting clear policies, providing training,

and ensuring that employees have the tools and resources they need to perform their job without using their mobile phones while driving.

Another solution is to encourage the use of hands-free technology while driving.

This can include hands-free headsets, voice-activated controls, and dashboard-mounted devices.

These tools can help drivers keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.

Thus reducing the risk of a crash and improving their insurance situation.

Conclusion

The trend of van drivers using mobile phones while driving in the UK is a concerning issue that needs to be addressed by increasing enforcement,

encouraging the use of hands-free technology, and raising awareness.

Van Driver Mistakes That Could Instantly Invalidate Your Van Insurance

Posted on by News Desk

Van drivers: By now you should know what you can and can’t do whilst driving a vehicle.

Any vehicle, not just a van.

It does seem though, that some folks need to be constantly reminded of these facts, as some of our weekly stories illustrate.

Hands-Free Or Not At All

Holding your mobile phone whilst driving is a definite no-no; especially more so since the recent changes to the Highway Code.

However, one driver in Pembrokeshire was recently fined £220 plus costs of £90.

He also had the privilege of having 3 points on his driving licence.

Police charged the driver with “not being in proper control of a vehicle,” a Transit van.

They had spotted him using his phone while driving.

The driver also failed to attend the court hearing!

Dangerous Driving

Thames Valley Police recently sentenced another van driver to 18 months in prison after chasing and finally catching him.

The driver had been speeding at 90mph on the M40 and continued at this speed on the A40 after leaving the motorway.

Driving erratically and endangering other road users, the driver tested positive for drugs.

He also lacked a valid driving licence and van insurance.

Motorists Keeping North Yorkshire Police Busy

A team of officers in an unmarked police vehicle observed a van driver.

They were there to target lawbreakers on the roads, in this case, the A1M near Wetherby.

Not only was the driver in question not wearing a seatbelt, but he was also using his mobile phone.

When he saw the officers filming him, he reacted by sticking two fingers up at them.

Unsurprisingly, authorities fined him £200 and added 6 penalty points to his licence.

On Patrol In Harrogate

North Yorkshire Police recently patrolled and decided to investigate a white van and its driver at a roadside stop.

One officer instinctively sensed something was off, although they initially stopped the van for defective lights.

They investigated further and discovered the vehicle lacked tax, had no valid MOT, and the driver’s licence was revoked.

A definite case of “you’re nicked, sunshine”.

Don’t take any chances, and don’t get caught out without insurance.

Have a quick check for the best and cheapest van insurance quotes for your van.

Simply begin by completing this quick 3-minute form.

Van Driver Fails You Won’t Believe: Stuck in Sand and Under Bridges

Posted on by News Desk

Stuck In The Middle With You

Well, actually, it was more like stuck in the sand for one unlucky AA van driver.

The call seemed straightforward: rescue a stranded van and driver at Porth Beach in Newquay.

But things didn’t go as planned.

The AA van itself got stuck in the sand.

Locals quickly jumped into action.

They worked alongside the AA driver to free both vehicles.

We can only assume the original stranded driver joined the efforts too.

It took nearly an hour to free both vehicles.

But this wasn’t an isolated incident.

It’s not the first time the AA has ended up stuck while responding to a rescue.

On a previous occasion, even a tow truck was required to save both vehicles.

Why Does This Keep Happening?

Over Easter, a Transporter van and a Mazda car met the same sandy fate.

The story doesn’t end there.

Just down the road at Great Western Beach, it’s a regular occurrence.

In the past year, more than a dozen cars have needed rescue from the sand.

Why Are People Driving Onto The Beach?

It’s a good question.

Maybe they didn’t feel like walking.

Hopefully, they’ll think twice before trying it again.

Bridge Over Troubled Water

Now, let’s talk about another kind of stuck.

One unfortunate van driver found themselves in a different predicament.

Not in the sand this time.

But wedged under a bridge.

The road had to be closed.

Despite numerous warnings about the low bridge, the van became firmly lodged.

How Could This Happen?

Above the bridge, there’s bright yellow writing.

It clearly states LOW BRIDGE.

There are also multiple signs alerting drivers to the height restriction.

Yet bridge strikes still happen.

Didn’t They See The Signs?

Some drivers seem to think they can squeeze through.

Or maybe they just don’t notice the warnings.

Reality hits fast.

A van measuring 7’3” simply won’t fit under a 7-foot bridge.

What happens next?

Deflating the tyres is often the only way to get unstuck.

That’s four flat tyres.

If you’re lucky, it might work.

But maybe, just maybe, it’s time to pay more attention to those signs.

Better check your insurance to see if it covers getting stuck in unusual places then.

Luckily for you, it won’t take long at all with our quick 3-minute form.

 

Master The Art Of Van Driving: Safety Tips You Can’t Ignore

Posted on by News Desk

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.

Flames, Frames and Freemen

Posted on by News Desk

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

Posted on by News Desk

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.

Driver Takes His Van For A Swim

Posted on by News Desk

Driver Takes His Van For A Swim?

Yes, you did read what you thought you just read.

And whilst it’s not quite as simple as that, we’re phrasing it that way, so the driver doesn’t feel too bad. 

…But he should. 

This week’s news comes fresh to you from Exmouth.

A lovely English Seaside town in the South of Devon, that can get quite lively, from what we hear.

Well, lively enough for a van driver to park his van on a tidal slipway, slip off for a quiet pint or two, and forget about the van.

The driver went off for a pint, that is – not the van.

Then again, the van did go swimming, so who knows what else it’s capable of…

Unfortunately, this memory loss has cost the driver dearly.

The next thing he knew, town members had spotted his white van bobbing off into the sea.

Regrettably, he was not made aware of this until the next morning, when he returned to pick up his van.

Thankfully, the driver appears to have remained upbeat.

What else can you do, we suppose?

We’re not sure what exactly is in the air and affecting our dear van drivers this week, but similar news also hit the headlines in Cornwall. 

Whilst we don’t think a pint was involved this time, there was some blatant disregard for parking rules.

The unfortunate driver was initially at Newquay Harbour Beach to help launch a boat.

He then ignored signs and protests from the parking attendant about leaving his van on the beach.

Well, karma sure came around for this guy because the next thing he knew, his van was already submerged, having a dip in the sea.

The best thing (or worst thing?) was that he left his van there, just so he could go off and jet ski with a buddy.

That’ll teach him. Hopefully.

Where’s the weirdest place you’ve ever left your van parked?

We’re sure there are some juicy stories out there… So, come on, don’t be shy! 

If, like the unfortunate drivers in this article, you ever find your van needing a float in the form of van insurance, we’re thankful to say we have you covered.

 So whether you’re planning on parking on the beach (let’s hope not),

or somewhere a little more sensible (like the road, or a driveway, perhaps?),

you’ll find we have the cheapest van insurance quotes around.

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Complete your quick and easy quote

Step 2

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Step 3

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