DVSA Van Statistics

The UK uses more that three and a half million vans for business activities. As part of targeted roadside checks, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) stop around 15,000 vans each year to carry out spot checks on vehicles and issue prohibitions if necessary. A prohibition prevents van drivers from using the vehicle until the problem is fixed and can cost owners and operators up to £4,000 per day, per vehicle.

59.9% of vehicle prohibitions were due to a mechanical defect / failure and 83.9% of vans were overloaded.

The top three mechanical defects for light goods vehicles that resulted in a prohibition were: 1. Tyre condition 2. Lights and indicators 3. Steering linkage.

The other reasons for light goods vehicles that resulted in a prohibition were: 1. Overloaded 2. Driver hours.

You must make sure that any drivers you use or employ have the correct licence and training. As an employer, you must monitor your employees working time and keep records of these times for at least two years. The DVSA encourages all van drivers to take a 45 minute rest for every 4.5 hours of driving. Employers should also record speed limits and ensure drivers don't go over the limit.

All vans have a gross weight limit (gross vehicle weight, laden weight) which should not be crossed. The weight limit is on the vehicle identification number (VIN) plate in the van. The gross weight is the total combined weight of: vehicle, driver (and any passengers), fuel and the load the van is carrying. Driving an overloaded van will affect its safety, putting you and other road users in danger. It will put a strain on the suspension and the steering will be heavier and feel askew. If an overloaded vehicle results in a death, the driver or operator could also be prosecuted for Manslaughter or Death by Dangerous Driving

All drivers should use an operator checklist to help ensure you fleet vehicles are roadworthy and compliant. Carry out a daily inspection before using a van and record any defects or advisories. Repair any major defects before vans are used and keep a record of your van repairs.

The introduction of a systematic vehicle maintenance and safety programme allows fleet managers to receive a signed and dated vehicle inspection which can be used as evidence of an active and up-to-date maintenance programme in the event of an accident. Some of the basic vehicle checks include the engine department for oil, screen wash, battery etc; whilst lights, mirrors, tyres and documentation are amongst the various external checks and it even includes details on the driver to ensure their license is in date and that they are fit to drive – all of which can be seen to cover many of the considerations listed above in one simple and affordable solution.

Using either Good to Go Safety or TakeAIM to inspect your vehicles (whether for work or personal use) should be part of your daily routine. Never overlook the importance of checking it as it could save your life and the lives of others. Taking a few extra moments to complete some basic checks could mean the difference between making it to your destination or not.