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Van drivers challenge ‘dangerous drivers’ reputation

Date: Wednesday, October 19, 2016   |  

According to the new o a poll, 9% of van drivers have been involved in accidents in the last year, while but 54% have their driving performance monitored by employers; and a third receive driver training, suggesting that van drivers may be safer than the original poll implied.

The findings of this research go against a previous TomTom survey from the company where van drivers finished at the bottom of the table when it came to which road users are considered the safest or most careful.

“The traditional ‘white van man’ stereotype may no longer be a fair one with a great deal having been achieved over recent years to help raise driving standards among LCV operators,” said Jeremy Gould, vice-president, sales Europe at TomTom Telematics.

“Van drivers are often unfairly maligned and, in some quarters, continue to shoulder an undeserved reputation. Initiatives such as the Freight Transport Association Van Excellence scheme have been embraced by the industry, demonstrating its commitment to improving standards and increasing best practice awareness,” said Mark Cartwright, head of vans at the Freight Transport Association.