Driving a van vs. driving a car: understanding the key differences

Published 15 October 2024
Last updated 16 October 2024

In this blog we explore the differences in size, visibility, handling, and behaviour between vans and cars, with an additional note on how these differences can affect your insurance.

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The growing appeal of vans

Whether you need extra space for road trips, outdoor adventures, or transporting goods, a van can offer the flexibility that a car might not. However, driving a van is not the same as driving a car. Understanding what makes them different can help you make the transition smoothly and safely.

Size and weight: managing the bigger bulk

One of the most noticeable differences between a van and a car is the size and weight. Vans are generally larger and heavier, which directly impacts how they handle on the road. This increased size means:

• Longer braking distances: Vans require more time and distance to come to a complete stop, especially if they’re fully laden. They also take longer to pick up speed
• Manoeuvrability: Navigating through tight spaces, such as narrow streets or car parks can be more challenging
• Height restrictions: Vans may be too tall for height barriers into car parks or even very low bridges
• Weight restrictions: Vans, like cars, have a maximum authorised mass (MAM). Make sure you do not exceed this when loading the vehicle and look out for weight restrictions over weak bridges.

For those new to driving vans, it’s essential to take time to adjust to the vehicle’s size and to know it’s height and weight.

Visibility: seeing the road differently

You often have a higher driving position in a van, which improves your view of the road ahead. However, the absence of rear windows in many vans and the reliance on wing mirrors can alter your perception of the road and surroundings.

In general, vans have:

• Larger blind spots: Vans typically have bigger blind spots compared to cars, especially towards the rear and sides. This means you must make full use of the wing mirrors and, if necessary, invest in blind-spot mirrors or cameras to enhance visibility
• No rear-view mirror: The lack of a rear window in many vans requires drivers to depend entirely on wing mirrors. Adjusting these mirrors correctly and checking them frequently become critical for safe driving.

Adapting to these changes in visibility is key to avoiding accidents, especially when changing lanes or reversing. If you find it hard to reverse safely when parking, ask someone to guide you.

Handling and stability: a different driving feel

Vans handle differently to cars thanks to their larger size and higher centre of gravity.

They typically have a large turning circle, making tight turns more difficult. This means you’ll need to take wider turns and allow more space when navigating corners.

The taller profile of a van also makes the vehicle feel less stable when it’s windy - especially at higher speeds. The best policy is to keep your speed down or, if you feel that conditions are making it difficult to carry on, find a safe place to stop.

When loading a van, you need to make sure the load is evenly distributed and secured so that it will not move when you’re driving. A badly loaded van will be unsafe and less stable.

Speed limits

Vans have different speed limits to cars. Make sure you know the limit for the road you’re on and do not exceed it.

Important insurance considerations:

Insurance considerations play a crucial role in your overall costs and peace of mind on the road. This is just as true of vans (due to their size, use, and other risk factors) as it is of cars.

For example:

• Cost differences: Insurance for vans can be more expensive than for cars, particularly if the van is used for work. Factors such as the vehicle's size, engine power, and the value of goods carried can influence the insurance premium.
• Commercial vs. personal use: If you’re using a van for business, carrying tools or goods, you’ll likely need commercial van insurance, which provides coverage for these additional risks. On the other hand, if the van is for personal use, standard van insurance might be enough, but it’s important to check the policy details carefully.

Vanishing point

Well, that’s about all we’ve got room for in this post, but before we go, we’d like to ask you to help us. If you have 5 minutes spare, head over to our socials and let us know if you found this post useful. Oh and do not forget to tell us if there’s anything else you think we should cover…just make sure it’s about safe driving! 😊

Until next time…

This blog:

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