A new video focussing on basic pre-drive checks has been launched to support businesses who operate vans as part of their fleet of vehicles.
The film, timed to coincide with a national campaign, highlights the importance of having a properly maintained and correctly loaded van.
Presented by South Yorkshire Police’s acting sergeant Martyn Micklethwaite, it shows how simple pre-drive checks can keep drivers within the law, improve road safety and help save time and money.
Joanne Wehrle, manager of South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership (SYSRP), said: “Issues such as insecure loads, dangerous goods, bald tyres and using a mobile phone while driving, all contribute to making our roads unsafe.
“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.”
The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) commercial vehicles campaign runs from 11-24 July.
Throughout the campaign, SYSRP will be sharing information on loading of goods, how to check the weight of a vehicle and securing loads.
The SYSRP 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.”
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