Is there anything more liberating than driving through country roads, quiet city spots, and empty streets? At Van Ninja, we have an array of appealing van leasing offers for you to pick from and enjoy your day-to-day ventures. From sustainable vehicles to models rich in infotainment, there is something for all tastes.
But, whether you are stuck in traffic or cruising along deserted motorways, it is always crucial to make sure you’re keeping yourself within the laws of van driving. Distractions or oversights can lead to unpleasant consequences, and they can seriously put a damper on your journey.
So what regulations should you keep an eye on as a van driver? What rules should you bear in mind to avoid pricey fines and unwanted mishaps?
Speed limit
As mentioned, jumping at the wheel of a comfy and reliable van is a pleasurable experience. Make sure you do not ruin it by exceeding the speed limit.
It is important to remember that vans have lower speed limits than cars. In built-up areas, as well as roads with street lighting, a 30mph limit applies. If you are navigating a single or dual carriageway, then you are required to stick to a 50mph and 60mph limit respectively. As for motorways, you can go slightly faster – but do not exceed 70mph. Firstly, abiding by road speed limits will keep both you and your fellow motorists safe. Secondly, it will spare you from hefty fines.
In fact, drivers who don’t adhere to the speed limits can, if caught, be fined up to £1,000 – £2,500 for motorway offences. Not only, but they are also at risk of losing 3 to 6 points on their driving license for speeding.
Driving hours
Whether for business or personal duties, there is a chance you spend a significant amount of time inside your van on a daily basis. But how many hours can you sit behind the wheel of your van? Disregarding rules on van driving hours can cost you £300, or even spur a custodial sentence if you accidentally cause a road incident.
When driving a van that weighs under 3.5 tonnes, you have a 10-hour limit of daily driving. This applies from the moment you start the vehicle and includes time off-road and with the engine running – both when stationary and moving. If driving all day for work-related matters, you are granted 11 hours of daily duty. This means that you can spend up to 11 hours working, but only 10 should be set aside for driving.
When at the wheel of a vehicle that exceeds 3.5 tonnes, rules and limits change. For instance, you are ‘only’ allowed 9 hours of daily driving and 56 hours of weekly driving. What’s more, you should take a 45-minute break every 4.5 hours and enjoy a minimum of 11 hours of daily rest.
Loading and weight limits
Every van has a maximum permissible weight when loaded. The limit incorporates the weight of the vehicle, the load, the fuel, and the passengers (including the driver).
Wondering how you can learn what your van’s weight limit is? Check your van’s vehicle identification number (VIN) plate. Alternatively, feel free to ask us and we will do our best to help!
If you overload your van, you could impact its performance while also putting your safety at risk. Moreover, if your van is found to weigh more than permitted, you could be either fined up to £300 or get a court summons.
New phone laws
It is fair to say that phones can be a prominent source of distraction and can cause unwanted and dangerous consequences. To combat this, as of March 2022, the UK government introduced stricter rules when it comes to using mobile phones while driving.
As things stand, actions such as texting and calling, unlocking the device, checking the time, taking photos, and scrolling through music playlists are all prohibited by the law. If caught, the guilty driver will have to face a costly fine, which may range from £200 to £1000.
Furthermore, you could receive a six-point deduction from your driving license and lose an extra three if – at the time of the offence – you had limited view of the road ahead.
There is no hiding that being at the wheel of a van offers some truly feel-good moments. Choose the model that best suits your needs and hit the road with confidence!
But to properly enjoy your ventures, stay safe, and avoid undesired fines, it is important to always adhere to the laws of van driving. From weight and speed limits to driving hours and phone regulations, there are a few factors to keep in mind when going about your daily tasks.
