Driving a van for the first time might be intimidating but trust us when we say it’s a lot easier than you would imagine. Most current vans have the same safety equipment as ordinary automobiles, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, steering-wheel airbags, and sound systems. It does, however, pay to be prepared. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our top tips for driving a van, so you can confidently hit the roads this summer.
Prepare the Route Ahead of Time
Planning and preparation are essential when it comes to driving a van for the first time. Make sure you have your route – as well as an alternate route – written out on your sat-nav before you go. Driving on unfamiliar roads or being lost can raise stress levels, compromising your safety – so make sure you know how to get from point A to point B!
Think About Roof Clearances
While some rental vans are equivalent in size to ordinary automobiles, the biggest group of vans may be too tall for the lowest bridges and other overhanging barriers. As a result, be cautious when entering parking lots and multi-story parking lots! You don’t want to demolish the roof.
Handle Corners Carefully
For the bigger vans, such as the VW Transporter Sportline, width might also be a concern. It may seem self-evident, but the larger the vehicle, the more room you’ll need to allow when entering a corner or turning around an obstruction. Remember that there are more vehicles behind you than you are accustomed to! It’s all about forward observation once more. If you’re unsure, slow down or come to a complete stop to analyse any potential hazards.
Full Load or Empty
You must also understand the difference between driving an empty vehicle and a completely loaded one. For starters, a van’s vast storage bay and hauling capacity allow it to transport extremely big cargo. All areas of performance, from acceleration to braking and handling, are significantly improved. In brief, when driving full, err on the side of caution, provide even wider gaps for other road vehicles, check your speed, and allow extra room for stopping.
Load It Correctly
A vehicle that is overweight or underloaded might be risky. Take note of the van’s maximum load capacity and ensure all objects and supplies are loaded safely, evenly, and as low as feasible in the bay to guarantee safety and damage minimisation. Loose materials may be a severe concern, and the higher goods are stored, the more likely they are to cause stability issues, break loose, and become damaged.
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