When it comes to transporting goods or moving furniture, many people opt for a long wheelbase hire van due to its spacious interior. However, driving a long wheelbase hire van can be quite different from driving a regular car. This guide will provide essential tips on how to drive a long-wheelbase hire van safely and efficiently, especially when using services like Warrington Van Hire.
Understanding the Length of the Van
One of the first things to understand is the size and length of the vehicle you are driving. Long wheelbase hire vans have a longer chassis compared to standard vans, which means they require more room for turns and will have a significant rear overhang. This can greatly affect your manoeuvrability, especially in tight spaces or crowded areas.
Navigating Turns
When making turns, it’s crucial to allow for the van’s extended length. Here are some tips to help you navigate turns safely:
- Wide Turns: Always make wider turns than you would in a smaller vehicle. This will help you avoid clipping corners or hitting curbs.
- Positioning: Position your van correctly in the lane before making turns. This helps eliminate the risk of needing to over-correct midway through the turn.
Being aware of these factors will make your driving experience smoother and safer.
Using Mirrors and Parking Sensors
When driving a long wheelbase hire van, visibility is paramount. Use your mirrors effectively to gauge the distance between your van and other vehicles or obstacles.
Effective Mirror Usage
- Side Mirrors: Always check your side mirrors when changing lanes or making turns to ensure you won’t collide with any obstacles in your blind spots.
- Rear Mirrors: Keep an eye on your rearview mirror more often than you would normally. This is crucial when reversing or checking for traffic behind you.
If your van is equipped with parking sensors, make sure to pay attention to the signals they provide. They can help you gauge distances more accurately, particularly in crowded parking areas.
Allow for Overhang
Understanding the rear overhang of the van is crucial when manoeuvring. This overhang can significantly affect how you drive in tight spaces.
Tips for Managing Overhang
- Reversing: When reversing, take extra care not to hit any obstacles positioned behind the van. Look out for curbs, bicycles, or pedestrians that may be out of sight.
- Slow Movements: Move slowly when in tight spots. This will allow you time to react to any potential hazards, and you’ll have a better chance to correct your path if necessary.
By understanding where the overhang extends, you can better plan your movements and keep your van and others safe.
Defensive Driving
Driving a long wheelbase hire van requires a defensive driving mindset. This means being constantly aware of other road users, giving yourself ample room, and remaining calm under pressure.
Tips for Defensive Driving
- Maintain Distance: Always maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. This will give you more time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic.
- Mind the Blind Spots: Remember that larger vehicles have larger blind spots. Keep an eye on other vehicles and anticipate their moves as best as you can.
- Use Turn Signals: Clearly signalling your intentions can go a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring a smooth drive.
By adopting a defensive driving attitude, you greatly reduce the risk of accidents and improve your own overall driving experience.
Driving a long wheelbase hire van can be a daunting task for those unaccustomed to larger vehicles. However, by understanding the limitations of the van’s length, effective use of mirrors and parking sensors, allowing for overhang, and applying defensive driving techniques, you can navigate the roads with confidence. With services like Warrington Van Hire, you have the opportunity to leverage these spacious vans safely. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering how to drive a long wheelbase hire van. For Van Hire Warrington, Van Hire Runcorn, Van Hire Widnes, Van Hire St Helens and Van Hire Altrincham call our van hire team today on 01925 396 222 for the best prices on Warrington van rental services. Safe travels!
