A new video showing how basic pre-drive checks can increase compliance and cut van fleet time and money is now available for operators.
The online guide – which has been launched to coincide with a national campaign – reminds drivers and businesses about the importance of having a properly maintained and correctly loaded van.
Presented by South Yorkshire Police’s Acting Sergeant Martyn Micklethwaite, the film shows how simple pre-drive checks can keep you within the law, improve road safety and help save you time and money.
It’s been filmed by South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership (SYSRP), which said that issues such as insecure loads, dangerous goods, bald tyres and using a mobile phone while driving, all contribute to making our roads unsafe.
Joanne Wehrle, manager of SYSRP, added: “Through this film, we are urging anyone who drives a commercial vehicle or operates a fleet, to consider the important safety implications.
“If your vehicle is not properly maintained or correctly loaded, or if you are driving while not fit for the road, not only are you risking causing severe disruption to the network, but you are putting your life, as well as the lives of others at risk.”
It forms part of the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Commercial Vehicles campaign, which runs from Monday 11 July to Sunday 24 July in the UK.
SYSRP’s video shares information on loading of goods, how to check the weight of a vehicle and securing loads.
“All these things impact on a vehicle’s handling and ability to stop, which can severely affect its safety on the road,” added Joanne Wehrle.
“Insecure loads also risk causing harm to the driver or other members of the public if they become loose and fall from the vehicle. If stopped by the Police, drivers could risk hefty fines and their vehicles being prohibited from being moved until the faults are rectified.”
The film also looks at the role of the driver and the need to have the correct documentation including the right insurance cover and driving licence entitlements.
A/Sgt Martyn Micklethwaite said: “The person behind the wheel is the most important part of the pre-drive checks.
“Ask yourself are you fit to drive, properly rested, are you taking any medication that may affect your ability to drive safely or are you under the influence of alcohol?
“Do you know the speed limits that apply to your vehicle and are you driving to that speed limit and the conditions of the road?
“All the things covered in this video are ultimately about keeping people safe and preventing unnecessary harm to all South Yorkshire road users.”
To access the video, click here.
