Getting behind the wheel of a van can be tough, especially when you’re not used to, or aware of the handling changes and travel restrictions that come with larger vehicles.
Although cars and vans may be similar in mechanics, they do differ in handling and manoeuvrability. So, if you’re looking to get behind the wheel of a larger vehicle, it’s important to be aware of these differences to keep you and other road users safe.
That’s why the experts at Vansdirect have unveiled their top 5 tips you need to know when driving a larger vehicle, one of which could even save you from a £300 fine or court summons.
Load size
When you are upsizing to a van you need to consider what it’s going to be used for. This will help make sure that you purchase the right van for you based on your particular needs and requirements.
Van weight limits are there to provide you with a guide and pushing these will affect your steering, braking and acceleration speeds. You also need to take more care with potholes if you have a laden van as your suspension will be stiffer. So, it’s crucial to plan by knowing your load size and the maximum amount you’re going to be transporting.
If you are found to be over your vehicle weight load limit by just 30% then you risk a fine of up to £300 or even a court summons.
Load distribution
When loading up your van you need to make sure you consider how this will affect your driving. To help weight distribution, place the heavier items at the bottom of the bay and closer to the bulkhead. You should also tie down any objects if possible as this will prevent them from moving and sliding. It’s important to make sure that everything is spread evenly across the bay, as low as possible, as this will reduce the risk of the load affecting your handling.
An uneven load will change the vehicle’s centre of gravity, leading to varying stress levels on tyres, suspension systems and brakes. The impact of this could be something as simple as poor fuel efficiency, but it can also lead to something serious, like a vehicle tipping.
Speed limits
Vehicles loaded with less than 2 tonnes may qualify as a ‘car-derived van’ or ‘dual-purpose vehicle’ so they can travel at the regular speed limit. However, vehicles over this weight may have to follow revised legal limits on certain roads.
For those wanting to take to carriageways with their van, it’s important to note that the speed limit is 10mph lower than it would be if you were in a car. This means you should be travelling at 60mph on dual carriageways and 50mph on single carriageways.
On the other hand, when you are using your van in built-up areas and on motorways, you shouldn’t be affected by speed limit changes as these are the same between vans and cars.
Stopping distance
Stopping distances change with larger vehicles so, to stay safe on the road, it’s important you’re aware of how much space is between you and the vehicles in front and behind.
A study from Volkswagen reports that a heavy, packed van needs an additional two metres to stop, compared to an empty van – even when driving 30mph. This distance grows to five metres, if you double the speed to 60mph.
Size restrictions
Some vehicle sizes will face travel restrictions, so it’s important to know the exact size of your van if you’re looking to travel freely.
The height of your van could affect your ability to park in multi-storey car parks as most require you to pass under restriction barriers. It will also affect travel in more rural areas that are likely to have low bridges and overhangs.
You also need to be more aware of your vehicle’s width, particularly when driving, as it will affect your vehicle when turning corners. On narrow roads, you may need to consider slowing down to manoeuvre properly and safely around tight bends as your turning circle will be much wider.