Common Van Driving Mistakes & How To Avoid Them

Vanaways
Vanaways
2nd Jun 2022
Common Van Driving Mistakes & How To Avoid Them

Sadly, no matter how hard we try, accidents happen. Even the most cautious of us can’t avoid mistakes all of the time, particularly on the road, with many factors playing their part for a driver’s attention to be diverted away from what’s in front of them. We can, however, make sure we provide ourselves with the best possible chance of avoiding them. Below we take a closer look at common van driving mistakes and how to avoid them.

Breaking Speed Limit

Speeding may seem obvious, but in truth, exceeding the speed limit is often only noticeable when it’s severe. Most of us, however, are guilty of speeding, even if we don’t always realise it. Fleet drivers, in particular, are expected to follow the designated speed limit for a given area, to avoid accidents or collisions on the road caused by a lack of control over the vehicle from driving too fast.

A simple way to avoid this is to fit your vehicle with a speed limiter, or through owning a vehicle with a cruise control function, to avoid the risk of unknowingly exceeding the speed limit. Equally, many satellite navigation systems will notify the driver of the current speed limit of every road to further prevent this issue.

Driving When Tired

We should all be aware of the dangers of driving when tired, and this is particularly important when it comes to fleet operators. Van driving often requires long hours, working through the night and a need to continually be on the go. This can naturally lead to tiredness, which is well-documented to dramatically reduce a driver’s ability to react in a similar way to that of alcohol. Before driving a van, you should ensure you are well-rested and that you are taking regular breaks when needed to prevent the risk of falling asleep at the wheel. As the famous adage goes; tiredness can kill, take a break.

Distracted On Road

Distractions can be a real problem when driving, particularly for long-distance fleet operators, with everything from your phone, to your radio, sat-nav and even your speedometer requiring your attention at different moments. Of course, it’s illegal to use your phone, take calls, send texts or take photos when driving, but this will also extend to simply switching songs or using sat-nav on your phone.

The use of a mobile device when driving can have a serious impact on your ability to react, control your speed, correctly judge distances between the vehicle ahead and even your own lane position.

Looking for new, used or electric vans for sale? At Van Sales UK, we’re the home of low-cost vans. We have everything you need to suit your requirements, no matter what type of van you’re searching for. Find out more, or get in touch today.

Vanaways Reviews

   
Paul

Paul

29 April 2025

"Overall dealings were good. Broadly speaking, response to emails could've been more timely. Joe, Snr Cust Service advisor in particular, was very good indeed. Sorted out the paperwork issues promptly. Overall, would recommend."

Mark Carter

Mark Carter

01 April 2025

"First class service, I must mention Adrian & Ash on an excellent deal & swift turn around under the short notice I had to buying a new van. Slight delay in the delivery of the van from manufacturers end but Adrian agreed to cover the cost of a hire van until my new van was delivered which allowed me to continue working. its the first time i've purchased a van without physically entering a dealership and i wouldn't hesitate to do it again."

Jackie Lee

Jackie Lee

28 March 2025

"Excellent service from start to finish. Jake Wheelock was professional, efficient and really genuinely helpful. Had my truck in less than 2 weeks. Great communication and reliable. Would highly recommend!"

Terry Huckstepp

Terry Huckstepp

02 May 2025

"Thank you once again for the great customer service received. It was an easy purchase. Great communication and especially thank you to Steve Catley and Abigail Bush."

Jessica Allard

Jessica Allard

11 March 2025

"From start to finish Morgan and the team have been fantastic in sorting 2 new defenders out for us from the quote 3 weeks ago to them being delivered they have been brilliant the deal they got us was unbeatable thank you Lewis @ steve Allard and son stonemasons"

4.9 out of 5 from 447 reviews
Back to top