Thinking of leasing a van? Do you know your obligations when it comes to your licence, speed limits and weight restrictions?
Read our guide below:
Licence requirements
You can drive a van up to 3,500kg if you have a standard car driving licence however if you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997you might need to take extra tests before you can:
· drive vehicles weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg
· tow a trailer with your van
You can be fined up to £1,000 and get 3 to 6 penalty points for driving without the right licence. Before you drive it is your responsibility to check!
Insurance
Of course, you must have vehicle insurance to drive a van and you must check the level of cover required. Tell your insurance company whether your van is for social or business use, as this will affect your policy. Your insurance company can assist with what you require if you are not sure.
Speed limits
Did you know that vans have lower speed limits than cars and car-derived vans Here’s a guide:
|
Type of van
|
Built up area*
|
Single carriageway
|
Dual carriageway
|
Motorway
|
|
Van
|
30 mph
|
50 mph
|
60 mph
|
70 mph
|
|
Car-type van
|
30 mph
|
60 mph
|
70 mph
|
70 mph
|
|
Van and trailer
|
30 mph
|
50 mph
|
60 mph
|
60 mph
|
*The 30 mph limit usually applies to all traffic on all roads with street lighting unless signs show otherwise.
You can be fined up to £1,000 (£2,500 for motorway offences) and get 3 to 6 penalty points for speeding.
Weight limits and loading
Your van has a maximum weight limit – what it is allowed to weigh when loaded.
This is called the ‘design gross weight’, which you can find on your van’s vehicle identification number (VIN) plate.
It’s sometimes known as the ‘gross vehicle weight’ or ‘laden weight’ but means the same thing.
It is your responsibility to double check this.
What the weight limit includes:
· the van itself
· driver and passengers
· fuel
· load
Secure your load
Some vans don’t have a bulkhead and in the event of an accident, the contents of your van could end up in the cab if they aren’t secured properly – this could cause injury! Therefore you must ensure that you load your goods evenly throughout the cargo area, with the heaviest items at the bottom. Don’t overload the individual axles and use appropriate restraints to secure your load, like netting and straps.