Driving in an inner city is almost a law unto itself. Most of the accepted ‘rules of the road’ seem to be soundly ignored as commuters and locals alike jostle for pole position to get to where they need to be. Most towns have predictable rush hours and busy-times but the traffic hosted by inner cities seems to ebb and flow independently of the usual regulations. This may be due to the number of commuters who drive to work, as opposed to using public transport, as well as the larger volume of cars found in inner cities. Leicester County Council is conducting a survey to try and establish the patterns of its city’s traffic, in the hope of establishing a new bus service.
According to new research by Volvo, most accidents occur at speeds of less than 20 miles per hour, which would seem to account for the high number of accidents that occur within the confines of the UK’s cities. As a result, those living in or travelling to work in these areas can often find themselves facing higher insurance premiums than those who live in more rural areas; as well as the increased likelihood for accidents, there is also a greater potential for the theft of a driver’s vehicle, adding to the cost of vehicle insurance.
As a van driver, either acting as a courier or someone who uses their van to transport their work-tools, you are often likely to find yourself driving in an inner city area. There are a number of precautions you can take to minimise the likelihood of accident and theft. These range from security devices for your van to driving tips. These can not only save you unnecessary stress and bills, they can also help you to reduce the cost of your van insurance.
As a van driver, you may find yourself in an unfamiliar part of the city. Cities are notorious for their poor sign-posting and lack of visible road-names. It may be worth investing in a satellite navigation system to ensure that you can get to where you need to be, without having to slow down or crane your neck in order to establish your whereabouts. While the addition of this device won’t make you instantly eligible for cheap van insurance, it could help improve your driving-history and, over time, help to reduce your premiums. However, do ensure that when you leave your van, it is always placed securely out of sight, as satellite navigation systems are a popular prize among thieves.
Parking-assist technology will keep you aware of the proximity of other vehicles that are behind you, whether you are intending to park or not. You can buy vans with these already fitted or, alternatively, have them installed to your existing vehicle. There are also front-parking sensors available, which will keep you alert to traffic and obstacles all around you. Anything that reduces your accident-potential will translate to your insurance company as a good driving-history; the longer this lasts, the lower your commercial van insurance is likely to be.
According to the Department for Transport, most inner-city accidents happen at crossroads and junctions. If it’s at all possible, familiarise yourself with any such circumstances before you take the route, using a map. Being aware of the road in advance will see you prepared for unfamiliar road-systems.
Vehicle security is of great importance, both for the protection of your van and the cost of your van insurance. There are a variety of devices you can buy to enhance your van’s security, from simple steering-locks to electronic alarm-systems. Using these and letting your insurance company know that you are using them can have a positive effect on your commercial van insurance premiums.
Driving in a city can be a stressful experience. Taking the necessary precautions to ensure that you get to where you need to be, safely and on time, can not only save you a lot of hassle, but also a lot of money.
Julia Niven – Van insurance service providers.