Chapter 45: DRIVING TIPS TO VAN DRIVERS

The reason that you drive a van or bus or 4WD is because it can do a job that other vehicles can't. However, the features which allow this mean that it is a different sort of vehicle with some quite unique driving characteristics which you should understand. The following tips can help you. 1. BRAKING IS DIFFERENT FROM PASSENGER CARS Vans/Buses/4WDs often have less weight on the rear axle. Consequently heavy braking is more likely to lock the rear wheels, especially when lightly loaded and may cause it to skid out of control. 2. YOU CAN CARRY A VARIETY OF LOADS OR A NUMBER OF PEOPLE If you are carrying the maximum load for the Van/Bus/4WD, spread it as evenly as possible over the whole floor area. If you are carrying light loads, put them up the back to balance front and rear axle weights as far as possible. This also applies to passengers. Encourage some to sit at the back. 3. TYRE CARE Correct tyre pressures are vital to Van/Bus/4WD safety. Look carefully at the handbook, find out the correct pressures for your use, and check the pressures at least each week. When replacing tyres, fit tyres similar to those originally installed. 4. SEAT BELTS Most Vans/Buses/4WDs have belts for all seats. If yours does not, consult your dealer or an organization such as the Automobile Club in your State. And, of course, always wear your belts. 5. SWIVELLING SEATS Some Vans/Buses/4WDs are fitted with swiveling seats. Make sure these seats are facing forward in the locked position whilst traveling with people in the seats. 6. FRONTAL PROTECTION Vans have less body structure out front to protect if you crash. Keep a little bit further away from the vehicle in front, as braking distances may be longer than for passenger cars. 7. CHILD RESTRAINTS Some vans don't have inbuilt child restraint anchorages. A child restraint must be very securely anchored. If in doubt consult your dealer or an organization such as the Automobile Club. 8. OVERTAKING OTHER VEHICLES Vans/Buses/4WDs are generally not as powerful as cars, and can't accelerate as fast when laden or going uphill. Be very cautious when passing until you know your vehicle, and even then remember when you have a heavy load. 9. VISIBILITY The extra height gives you a good view out front, but don't forget that sometimes you can't see small children. Don't forget either that bicycles or small cars can get hidden on either side or to the rear of your Van/Bus/4WD so that you can't see them. 10. CORNERING Vans/Buses/4WDs are generally much higher than passenger cars and have a higher centre of gravity. You need to take more care when cornering.

(Written by Joel Neilsen, Managing Director, Safe Drive Training)