In this post, we will cover our 8 top guidelines that will help you to successfully drive a FridgeXpress van for your business.
Table of Contents
1. Get comfortable
Whenever you need to drive a vehicle that you’re unfamiliar with, you should spend some time getting comfortable. This means adjusting your seat and mirrors so that you’re comfortable while driving. Additionally, be sure to find out where the lights, indicator, and wiper controls are located as well as go through the different gears while the engine is turned off. This will definitely help you to get a better feel of the vehicle before you actually start driving.
2. Take as much time as you need
For the most part, large vehicles take a bit longer in order to stop, drive as well as turn. Therefore, you’ll need to get used to this if you want to remain safe. Make sure that you start slowing down a bit more than you typically would especially if you have to go around corners or other tight turns. Also, make sure that there is enough space between you and the vehicle that is in front of you at all times.
Make sure that you review speeding consequences.
3. Become familiar with the limits
Next, you’ll have to become more familiar with the van’s limits. In many cases, large vehicles typically have capped speed limits and you should figure out these limits as soon as you can. Additionally, you should also figure out your load limits so that you don’t overload the van which would make it unsafe to drive and be on the road.
4. Always know the route you’re driving
Like most things, driving becomes quite easy once you know the roads you need to drive on to reach your destination. So, make sure to take the time to plan your route before you get on the road. This will give you a great deal of confidence while driving. Additionally, you should find out if there are any difficulties or issues you may run into while driving. This will help you to improve your plan as well as figure out where you need to park.
5. Lookout for blind spots
Keep in mind that when you’re driving a van, there will be blind spots that you need to be aware of. For example, when you need to pull over or switch lanes, make sure that you check your shoulders to ensure there are no vehicles, persons, motorcycle riders etc in your blind spot.
6. Pay attention to the weather
This is important no matter what type of vehicle you’re driving, but it is very important if you’re driving a van. This is due to the fact that certain types of weather can adversely affect your driving. For example, if the weather is very windy, then this is quite bad for high vehicles like vans which are empty. So, if you happen to be driving and the weather gets very windy, you should make sure to drive slower and ensure that there is enough space between your van and other vehicles on the road. Make sure to check out our guidelines on how you should drive while it is raining.
7. Pack properly
In order to safely transport your cargo, you need to pack them properly in your van.
8. Parking
Lastly, parking can be quite difficult, especially reverse parking. This is especially challenging if there isn’t a back window or a suitably positioned mirror. However, when you have big mirrors and are much higher than most other vehicles, you’ll be able to see well. So, make sure that you take your time when it comes to parking or even ask someone or a passenger to help.