Introducing the latest in-van tech to improve road safety

Government statistics indicate that van fatalities have dropped by 38% since 2007. It's good news, but there's always room for improvement.

If you're in the market for a new van, it's worth getting wise to the various safety options that many manufacturers now offer as standard with their latest models.

To give you a helping hand, we've compiled our list of top five safety technologies. And If your van has already got a few miles on the clock, don't worry, we've included a couple of add-on options that will give your safety credentials a boost.

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  1. Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA)

One of the emerging in-van technologies is Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA). This feature helps drivers to avoid exceeding the speed limit and automatically slows the vehicle down when the limit drops.

This safety feature can be found in most new vans and is definitely something to consider if you are looking to make a purchase that helps you cut down on the speeding tickets.

  1. Drowsiness and distraction monitors

For drivers that spend long stretches of time on the road, nodding off at the wheel can be a genuine danger. In-vehicle drowsiness and distraction monitors are designed to alert you when you're feeling tired by detecting movements like slow eyelid closure, the rate of blinks, and a nodding head.

Audi, BMW, Bosch and Citroën have the top-rated drowsiness detection systems on the market so if this technology appeals to you it's worth checking out their latest models.

  1. Autonomous Emergency Braking

From 2022, all new cars and vans will need to have Autonomous Emergency Braking as a safety standard.

Vans fitted with this technology collect data through light detection and camera sensors, identifying how likely a dangerous situation is to arise. The feature will then warn you to take action and if you don't your van will apply the brakes automatically.

  1. Dash camera

The premise of a dash camera is very simple, but highly effective if you get into an accident. The dash camera records driving footage on a constant loop that you can save and use if you need it for evidence or an insurance claim. An added advantage of dash cameras is that they can help to deter dangerous drivers who know that they're being recorded.

There are plenty of dash cams available to suit your budget and needs. For example, the IIWEY Dash Cam and APEMAN Dash Cam were both well-rated in 2020.

  1. Reverse detection and camera

Reversing cameras and detection are a must-have on all modern vans and help you reverse safely by feeding the rear camera image through to your dashboard. This feature helps when parking and aims to reduce rear collisions, alleviating your blind spot.

Most new vans are equipped with a reverse camera but if not, there are plenty on the market that can be easily installed yourself, including the AUTO-VOX M1W Wireless Reversing Camera Kit and TOGUARD Reversing Camera Kit.

Ed Bevis, Commercial & Marketing Director at The Van Insurer, says: "Investing in safety technology is really starting to pay off for many drivers. Not only does it deliver peace of mind for those who spend a lot of the time on the road but, in some instances, it can also reduce your insurance premiums."

See how much you can save

Compare van insurance quotes today!