Van Drivers

It is neither new nor controversial to have a go at van drivers. But correct me if I'm wrong: are they the newest breed of inconsiderate drivers?

Is there something about these vans that makes the driver:

• a) late
• b) angry
• c) impatient
• d) aggressive
• e) all of the above?

Top three bad vans

I've even got a sub-theory regarding which type of vans are the least considerate to other road users.

In first place, it's the flat bed Transit-type builder's truck - instantly distinguishable by the broom sticking out of the upright behind the cab.

In second place, the ubiquitous Transit Connect. Where once builders were forced to trundle around in Escort Vans "powered" by ancient 60bhp 1.8 normally-aspirated diesels, the latest Transit Connect sports turbo-diesel power up to 109bhp and an unrivalled capacity to produce thick, black smoke on demand.

Third spot goes to Luton's finest: the Vauxhall Vivaro and its clones, the Renault Trafic (the lost 'f' is deliberate, apparently) and Nissan Primastar. Their all-round rear bumper seems to encourage a carefree, myopic driving style which other road users would do well to steer around.

I wonder if there is a difference between those that drive 'company' vans, and self-employed one-man-bands who have a vested interest in their (usually crumbling, rusty and unsafe) asset? I suppose a knackered, poorly maintained older van is just as likely to cause harm as a newer, badly driven one.

King of vans

For van drivers, the top of the van food chain is the aptly-named Mercedes Sprinter. Rarely seen at less than 90mph, the Sprinter clearly has an abundance of thrust.

Why must vans be capable of over 100mph? What purpose does this serve? I understand the need for a heavy-duty engine in case of large loads, but surely these high-riding vehicles aren't safe at these speeds. How would they cope with a sudden lane-change manoeuvre, for instance? Almost certain loss of control, if not loss of contact between tyres and the ground.

When I am in charge* the light van will be limited to 56mph. To combat lengthy tailbacks as van tries to overtake van on dual carriageways, they (and HGVs) will be limited to the nearside lane at all times.

In Singapore, these vehicles have a flashing light on top of the roof. If the speed limit is exceeded, this light starts flashing, informing the (very attentive) law enforcement brigade that a transgressor is in their midst.

What a great idea.







* never