AXA: Quality of Van Driving Better Than Its Reputation

Van drivers in the UK have a reputation for being reckless, careless, and inconsiderate toward other drivers. However, is that reputation truly earned, or is it manufactured by false premises and misunderstandings? According to a recent study by AXA Business Insurance, it could be manufactured. Their research suggests that the quality of van driving is far better than its reputation among the public.

AXA conducted the study to address the ‘white van man’ label that denotes poor and reckless driving among van operators. Researchers now believe van drivers are among the most courteous and selfless on the road. Their research indicates that:

• 75% of drivers would stop to help someone who had been knocked over
• 72% would stop to assist after an accident they were not involved in
• 66% would stop to help someone who appeared to be in trouble
• 65% would stop to help a victim of attack
• 44% would assist the operator of a broken down vehicle
• 28% would intervene to prevent or stop road rage.

Underpinning all of the statistics is one final statistic that should put a smile on the face of every van driver: 56% of van drivers regularly use their vehicles to benefit others. Some 90% are willing to stop and help strangers in need regardless of the tendency of others to keep driving.

Of course, AXA’s research is far from scientific, but the results are impressive enough to encourage the company to say it is time for van drivers to take back the ‘white van man’ label and re-appropriate it to mean something positive. AXA also says their research over the years demonstrates professional drivers are less likely to break the law regarding everything from speeding to drink driving. Their self-assurance on the road means they are also less likely to have accidents.

Quality Driver Training

There are undoubtedly many British drivers who would dismiss the AXA findings in the firm belief that professional drivers are, as a whole, aggressive and discourteous. There is little the industry can do to change those perceptions. However, we can continue to put the best drivers on the road by providing quality driver training at every level. The HGV Training Centre is doing its part by offering industry-leading classes throughout the UK.

We do offer training for van driving, as well as training for HGVs, PCVs, LGVs, heavy construction equipment, horseboxes, and horsebox trailers, caravans, and forklift trucks. Our training includes CPC instruction where required by law. All of our training is conducted by experts with plenty of experience and an unparalleled ability to teach. As evidence, 92% of our PCVs students pass their theory test the first time.

The key to earning a professional driving licence is dedication. The student who commits him/herself to learning and applying is a student who will complete studies quickly and move on to his/her truck or van driving career in weeks.

Sources:

1. Commercial Fleet – https://www.commercialfleet.org/news/van-news/2015/04/22/van-drivers-have-active-concern-for-other-road-users-according-to-axa-survey