Road Safety - Distractions

Driving around in your van probably takes up a huge chunk of your day so it’s essential that when you take to the road you don’t put yourself or other road users in danger.

According to Think! Road Safety, up to 1,000 lives are lost on the road each year when someone is driving for work. Although speeding is a key factor in road accidents, there are a number of things which can affect your safety when you’re on the road.

Let’s take a look at some of them and the things you can do to minimise the risk of harm to yourself and others.

Drink and drugs

Drink and drugs can affect your driving skills so you must not drive whilst under the influence of either. Remember to check whether any prescription drugs or other medications could impact on your ability to drive. Also, if you’ve had a heavy night out then you could still be over the legal limit the following morning. If in doubt, don’t drive.

Tiredness

Driving whilst tired can kill. If you’re feeling sleepy then don’t take to the road. Make sure you’re fully rested before setting off in your van and take regular breaks, particularly on longer journeys.

Horses, cyclists, motorcycles, pedestrians

Horses and riders, cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians can all be hazards on the road so keep a close eye out for them. Give them all plenty of space and time to make their move.

Mobile phones

Conversations can be distracting and it is now illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. If you must use the phone, ensure you have a hands-free kit. Watch out, though, because if you are distracted when using such a kit then you could still be prosecuted.

Maps

It could be safer to use an in-car navigation system to listen to directions rather than a conventional map which involves looking away from the road and making frequent stops to check the details.

If the worst happens...

You may have been driving as carefully as possible but accidents can still happen. By ensuring that you have appropriate commercial vehicle insurance you can rest safe in the knowledge that if the worst were to happen you’re adequately covered.

If you’re an iPhone user and you’re involved in an incident, you could benefit from our free On the Road App.

Being alert to dangers on the road and changing your driving behaviour and social habits could reduce the likelihood of you being involved in an accident. However, in the unfortunate event that you are caught up in an incident then knowing you have adequate commercial vehicle insurance in place should give you some peace of mind.

The information contained within this article is for general information purposes only, it does not constitute advice. Direct Line endeavours to keep the information up to date and correct but does not make any representation or warranties of any kind about its completeness, accuracy, reliability or suitability. Any reliance you place on the information is strictly at your own risk. Direct Line will not be liable for any direct or indirect loss or damage arising out of or in connection with the use of this information.