Trade Van Drive 0008

master of its craft

MAGAZINE

We put the load-lugging Volkswagen crafter through its paces

issue 8, march 2013www.tradevandriver.com

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3 TVD lssue 4 2012

Contents

EditorialManaging Editor: Matthew EiseneggerAdditional reporting: Matthew EiseneggerJohn Threadgold

Editorial Address: Commercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd, 4th Floor, 19 Capesthorne Drive, Eaves Green, Chorley, Lancashire. PR7 3QQTelephone: 01257 231521. email: [email protected]

PublisherCommercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd,4th Floor, 19 Capesthorne Drive,Eaves Green, Chorley, Lancashire. PR7 3QQTelephone: 01257 231521

AdvertisingAdvertising sales: David JohnsTelephone: 01388 517906 / Mobile: 07590 547343Email: [email protected]

DesignDesign Manager: Matthew EiseneggerDesigner: David JohnsTelephone: 01388 517906 / Mobile: 07590 547343Email: [email protected]

PrintingPrecision Colour Printing LtdHaldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire. TF7 4QQTelephone: 01952 585585Web: www.pcpltd.net

NoteThe publisher makes every effort to ensure the magazines contents are correct. All material published in Trade Van Driver is copyright and unauthorised reproduction if forbidden. The Editors and publisher of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised in this edition. Trade Van Driver is published under a licence from Commercial Vehicle Media & Publishing Ltd. All rights in the licensed material belong to Matthew Eisenegger or Commercial Vehicle Media and Publishing Ltd and may not be reproduced whether in whole or in part, without their prior written consent. Trade Van Driver is a registered trademark.

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Follow us on

News round-up: 4-7

Vans of the future? 12

How to beat the thieves: 20

VW Crafter on test: 8-9

Rack right for safety: 14-15

Fiat Ducato evaluated: 24

821

Do you like bad weather?Probably not if you work on a site and you are stuck waiting in the van until the rain as abated. But every black cloud has a silver lining, especially in our trades.

Rain and wind are a roofer’s delight. A cold snap for plumbers can mean a gold rush fixing burst pipes, followed by plastering to fill the hole the burst has made and painters and decorators to finish up. I was listening to Radio 2 the other week and in the first of what could a succession of ‘article blasts’ due to hit the UK over the winter, they were talking to a central heating expert who was offering a phone-in clinic to diagnose faults, as for many it was the first time the system had been used to it maximum and was beginning to fail.

To be fair, the advice the ‘specialist’ was giving was good, but it does make you wonder why the callers weren’t contacting their local central heating engineers to seek the same quality advice. So where is this rant going?

And how is related to vans? Well, just picture the situation: phone rings, customer with water pouring through the ceiling of a multi-million pound Victorian terrace, lady in distress, a massive job for all the trades concerned. Super Plumber (you) answers: “Madam, I’m on my way”. Runs out to the van, jumps in and a number of things could happen.

If the van has not been properly looked after it could fail to start due to a flat battery.

Even worse, the vehicle could start but because of the poor state of the tyres or lack of oil, the van won’t move from outside the house. Imagine the poor lady in distress already knowing that the repair is going to cost a fortune and then being let down by you, who have been recommended by a friend for your skill and professionalism.

Sounds a bit dramatic but it happens. Remember, look after your wheels ‘cos they look after your business.

3 TVD lssue 8, March 2013

News

4 TVD Issue 8 2013 XX TVD lssue xx 2013

Real-Time Vehicle Tracking¥ÊFREEÊforÊÞrstÊ3Êmonths

¥ÊThenÊ£22.90/month

¥Ê12ÊmonthÊcontract

¥ÊFREEÊinstallation

¥ÊOn-siteÊwarranty

0870 013 [email protected]

www.quartix.net

VanÊFleetÊWorld

includes

DRIVING-STYLE MONITORING

One of the country’s largest commercial fuel card resellers, The Fuelcard Company, is launching the UK’s first pre-pay fuel card, Diesel Advance.

The card allows users to ‘pay as you go’ through advance online top-ups via a credit or debit card or weekly direct debit set at a chosen rate.

A large number of businesses are still unable to pass credit checks to obtain a ‘traditional’ fuel card with an appropriate limit, leaving them without access to valuable monitoring tools and savings at the pump.

Diesel Advance is The Fuelcard Company’s solution to this problem, negating the need for pre-qualification credit checks and opening up the benefits to all businesses.

The competitive pricing is based on the bulk fuel market and offers a weekly fixed price, which will be lower than the national pump price nine times out of ten, and the only fee is an annual card charge of £12.

Diesel Advance is available at 1,700 sites nationwide including Tesco and Morrisons, with an online site locator and free smartphone app allowing customers to explore the network.

n Visit: www.dieseladvance.co.uk, or call 0845 456 1400

First ‘pay as you go ‘fuel card is launched

More and more vans are being released with additional stowage areas under the passenger seats, allowing the storage of longer items inside the van.

So that this valuable “extra” space remains accessible when an aftermarket bulkhead is fitted, Van Guard has introduced a new variant of steel bulkhead which includes an opening or sliding hatch.

Opening bulkheads are particularly relevant to smaller vans (like the Partner and Berlingo) to maximise storage of longer items inside the van. It is equally relevant to vans where a mid- section bulkhead is fitted like the Transporter T5 or Vivaro which shortens the length of the load area.

The position of the hatch will vary according to where the space is available under the seats in front.

As a British manufacturer, Van Guard has the capability to include this opening hatch feature in its full range of solid, punched or window bulkheads across various makes and models of vans.

Along with the network of distributors, Van Guard will be able to advise on what bulkheads with a load hatch are available for your van. Or they could tailor a new product for you, using your van as a template.

n Call 08000 191 930, www. van-guard.co.uk or email [email protected]

New bulkhead from Van Guard

Van Guard has introduced a new variant of steel bulkhead which includes a opening or sliding hatch

Isuzu Truck UK continues the expansion of its dealer network, this time making a further new appointment in the South-West. It has now appointed AK Commercials of Albert Crescent, St Philips, Bristol, as its latest parts and service dealer.

Keith Child, marketing director at Isuzu Truck UK, said: “Ideally located close to the important M4/M5 corridor, AK Commercials is a significant addition to our presence here in the West Country. Complementing our existing dealer arrangements, we are now in an even stronger position to further develop and maintain the Isuzu vehicle parc in this region.”

New Isuzu parts and service dealer

News

6 TVD Issue 8 2013 7 TVD lssue 8 2013

Toyota Motor Europe and PSA Peugeot Citroën have announced a new agreement on light commercial vehicles for the European market. Under the plan, PSA Peugeot Citroën is to supply Toyota with light commercial vehicles for sale in Europe under the Toyota brand.

Toyota stopped selling the Hiace, its only panel van in the UK, at the end of 2011.

PSA Peugeot Citroën will supply medium size vans derived from its existing vehicles Peugeot Expert and Citroën Dispatch. The supply of vehicles will commence from mid-2013.

The agreement also includes collaboration on next generation vehicles which are to be produced by PSA Peugeot Citroën.

Toyota to join with PSA for new van

The unique folding Step Lift tail lift has been upgraded by Penny Hydraulics to enable maximum working loads of 500kg and offer operators even more load handling versatility.

The device provides continuous full access to the rear doors and load compartment of a van and is particularly suitable for operators with a diversity of loads who want to add handling capability without compromising the general utility of their vehicles.

It can also be specified to meet fleet and tender requirements that call for tail lifts with 500kg load handling performance. The new version complements an existing model with 250kg maximum load.

Unlike conventional tail lifts the

Step Lift 500 folds away below door level to replace or provide a full-width rear step without obstructing the van doors.

It does not need to be deployed to allow access to the vehicle and can be used when folded as an adjustable-height step or as a shallow tail lift for handling loads.

Penny upgrades its folding step lift

Fiat has launched a new Punto Van to replace the old Grande Punto, bringing a number of improvements over the outgoing model.

New van features external styling changes with fully colour-coded front and rear bumpers for a more sophisticated look.

The new model combines the style of both the Grande Punto and Punto Evo passenger cars, so the interior features sportier seat fabrics and on the SX version there is a new dashboard with soft touch materials.

Standard equipment includes ESP stability control, brake

assistance system, remote central locking, electric front windows, electrically adjustable and heated body coloured mirrors, trip computer, driver and passenger airbags, radio/CD/MP3 player, electric power steering, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel and a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

Load capacity is 1.0 cubic metres

and payload is 520kg. The van is powered by a 1.3-litre diesel powerplant with 75bhp, 85bhp or 95bhp. Prices start at £10,990 ex-VAT.

New Fiat Punto Van features a host of improvements

Van drivers targeted in new DVLA scam – don’t get caught!Britain’s van drivers are being targeted with a bogus email asking for verification of details held on the DVLA database.

The scam phishing email claims that the DVLA is updating its database and warns that refusing to supply the information would result in having to take a new driving test.

It includes a link which opens up a fake DVLA form and once

completed the scammers have all the details they need to create false identities, help apply for passports and access bank accounts and credit cards.

If you fall for this, you are likely to find you have great difficulty when trying to obtain legal documents or financial services because the data will have been identified as possible criminal activity.

A spokesman for the DVLA said under no circumstances should a driver complete this scam-link.

He said: “We never request such information in an email. There are some telltale signs it is a phishing email because of spelling errors and hovering your mouse over the link in the email but not clicking on it will reveal a completely different address to the DVLA and Directgov”

Like one? Join the queue!Ford will offer the all-new Transit Custom as a range-topping Sport Van variant featuring a dynamic new exterior style.

The Sport Van will provide UK businesses and owner-drivers with an eye-catching vehicle that stands out. The new model follows in the successful line of Sport Vans that have developed a following among Transit drivers since first being introduced in 2007.

The all-new Ford Transit Custom Sport Van includes a muscular body

kit and a fully colour-coded exterior, with body-colour bumpers, side mirrors, door handles and body-side mouldings.

The bold appearance is finished off with stylish 18-inch alloy wheels on low profile 235/50 tyres, and the signature twin bonnet stripes in a contrasting colour.

Sport Vans are equipped with the most powerful version of the Transit Custom’s Dagenham-built 2.2-litre Duratorq diesel engine, delivering 155bhp and 385 Nm of torque.

The stunning new Ford Transit Custom

Sport VanNissan is introducing a new, affordable entry-level version of its Navara double cab pick-up starting at £17,995 OTR.

The Navara Visia has been developed to offer operators a practical, robust pick-up. The new model introduces a new version of the respected 2.5-litre dCi common-rail diesel four-cylinder engine, producing 144bhp and 350Nm of torque and is capable of up to 39.8mpg on the extra urban cycle.

The interior door handles are finished in black rather than chrome. Similarly the front bumper is specified in body colour rather than having a two-tone element, while the grille struts are painted rather than chromed and conventional wiper blades are used in place of the flat blades found on higher spec versions.

Cheaper Navara


On test: Volkswagen Crafter 2.0 163 MWB HR

Craftymover

Volkswagen’s biggest panel van makes a mighty case for those who need to shift big

loads over long distances. John Threadgold reports

If your business involves carrying bunches of flowers to local shops or delivering feathers to the

nearest cushion maker, to be honest you probably won’t be too interested in the van on test here.

If one the other hand you need a mighty mover to thunder up and down the M6 and keep you safe and comfortable at the same time, read on...

For the Volkswagen Crafter is a vehicle that is very much built for the tougher jobs in life, despite the fact that it oozes a quality feel that a lot of other panel vans can only dream of offering.

For those who don’t know,

the Crafter comes off the same production line in Dusseldorf as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. It is given a different front end and VW’s own set of engines but apart from that the two vehicles are twins.

Whether you value a three-pointed start over a VW badge is up to you.

But if you choose this vehicle, or indeed the Sprinter, a treat awaits you as we reckon these vans are just about as good as LCVs get.

The Crafter was upgraded last year with a softer front end to replace the rather brutal looking old one and a new set of engines.

The old 2.5-litre five cylinder units have been scrapped and replaced

by new 2.0-litre four cylinder ones offering 109bhp, 136bhp and 163bhp. Our test van is the medium wheelbase highest power model which weighs in at £27,700 ex-VAT.

In the new models, fuel efficiency is improved by up to 33% over the old engines while SMR costs are reduced by up to 25%.

Our test model carried a BlueMotion badge which boasts of its environmental credentials.

Despite the fact that it is the most powerful engine in the range it nevertheless returns a reasonable 37.2mpg on the combined cycle and has an even more impressive CO2 output of 199g/km.

Behind the wheelOne of the first things you’ll notice

is that this vehicle isn’t exactly bargain basement on the price front. But then again quality products never are.

The second thing you’ll notice

if you toddle in to the nearest VW Business Centre to buy one is that there is a massive and sometimes costly options list which you can dip into.

You can opt for the bog standard of course but if your business is prospering you’ll find all sorts of tasty tempting titbits on offer.

Our test van had pearlescent paint at £1,195 (ouch – but it did look VERY good!) and a mighty system of forward and rearward sensors with a seven-inch screen at £1,160.

Mind you on the plus side the Crafter comes with ESP stability control as standard (unlike many other panel vans on the roads nowadays where this wonderful safety feature is a paid-for option), along with ABS brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution and TCS (traction control system) – so any driver who does have a dodgy moment can’t really be better protected.

It’s a big climb up in to the cab and once inside there are acres of space for driver and passenger. That high climb means the driver has a commanding view of the road ahead.

The driver’s seat is superb. There is plenty of lumbar support and it hugs the figure from shoulder to knees. There are also a million and one cubby holes for all your bits and pieces, including two big overhead parcel shelves.

In the rear, the side door is what you’d expect to see outside Valhalla and it slides shut with a mighty but very upmarket thwunk.

Our van had plywood load liners at £330, but rather meanly I thought VW charges £455 for rubber loading mats. In high roof format, even six-footers like me can stand upright without stooping, which is a plus point if you are likely to be unloading lots of different deliveries during the day.

Under way this van is a dream to drive.

The power steering is a trifle light but the steering wheel is nice and big and the Crafter has that ride-on-rails feel. The engine may be the highest powered but it doesn’t feel racy – more like sheer solid torque that will pull top weights anywhere you want to go. We did wonder of 2.0-litres was enough to fulfill a heavyweight role but this van never felt short of power during our test week.

Price (ex-VAT): £27,700Power (bhp/rpm): 163/3,600Torque (lb-ft/rpm): 295/1,800Fuel (mpg:) 37.2CO2 emissions (g/km): 199Cargo volume (cu m): 11.0Payload (kg): 1,395GVW (kg): 3,500

Spec sheet

10 TVD Issue 8 2013

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Van accessories

Van Guard is celebrating the start of the New

Year by launching a new silver pipe carrier as an alternative to its sleek black one.

Not only does this give a choice of colour with the same quality, but it comes at a lower price – an important factor where budgets are tight.

This new model is made from the same high quality aluminium extrusion and design as the original black pipe carrier.

The only difference is that it comes in its native silver colour.

This reduction in the manufacturing process represents a saving

which Van Guard and its distributors are passing on to the customer.

Other than colour, the features remain the same. It is still the largest capacity pipe carrier in the market, rectangular and with an aerodynamic nose cap to reduce noise and fuel costs.

Crash-testedLike its black

counterpart, it is crash tested, which means that these are the only lined pipe carriers in the market to offer this option to customers who carry plastic materials.

This new pipe carrier is only available in the most popular 3m length, either

Van Guard goes for silver!with or without a liner.

However, the black pipe carrier is still available in 2m, 3m and bespoke lengths up to 6m.

n Van Guard products are available both on line and from your local fitter. Search for its

products online or go to www.van-guard.co.uk to find your nearest fitter.

With demonstrator vans for the new Ford Transit Custom appearing at dealerships across the country, Van Guard has announced its roof systems for the new van are already available.

The first group of products to become available includes both two and three individual roof bars for the low roof Transit Custom, along with an optional full width roller.

In contrast to the optional roof rails that are available with the new Transit, Van Guard’s aluminium bars include free load stops to ensure secure loading

and transportation. The unique T-slot

also caters for a range of compatible accessories including beacon brackets, a wind deflector and eye bolts.

For greater versatility to carry mixed loads, Van Guard has adapted its eight-bar Maxrack to the short wheelbase model with rear barn doors.

The second wave of Van Guard products planned for the Transit Custom includes a Maxrack tailored to the long wheelbase as well as window grilles and a bespoke rear door ladder.

New Ford Transit Custom: roof bar alternatives available from Van Guard

New roof systems for Transit Custom


Special feature

Remember when you were a kid and the newspapers used to draw fantastical cartoons

depicting what life would be like when you grew up? People flying through the air with little jet packs? Spacemen landing on Mars? Cars that parked themselves?

Most of them are laughable of course, in these days of continuing starvation in Africa and Islamic jihadists trying to drag us all back to the 12th century. But hang on – cars that park themselves? That one at least is nearing reality!

So exactly just what will our vans look like in years to come? This was the question posed to design students at the Royal College of Art in a competition organised by Citroen to find the urban delivery vehicle of the future.

Some of the entries were bizarre in the extreme and none of the

students seemed to have thought of where the engine was going, but some good ideas came out of the contest and Citroen designers were closely looking at the entries to spot future design talent.

As we were invited to the judging at the college in Kensington and as some of Citroen’s top designers were on hand to give out the prizes,

it gave us the chance to collar them over lunch and ask the exactly what Britain’s trade van drivers can expect in the next 10 years or so.

Andy Cowell is the man who designed both the Citroen Nemo and the DS5 car. He told us: “Van drivers quite rightly want the same comforts as car drivers and we are seeing this more and more so the extras on cars at present will be available on commercial vehicles soon. For example the latest Dispatch van has been built to feel just like a large car. We are also seeing new technology which allows the floor of vehicles to be dropped right down to help loading. But the biggest advance is in connectivity. Telematics is a fast-moving industry and this will continue.”

Richard Meyer, PSA’s light commercial vehicle director, had travelled from Paris to attend the

event and told us how he saw the future of van powertrains.

With Citroen about to launch an

electric version of the Berlingo in the summer, he was surprisingly downbeat about the future of electric power.

Richard said: “We do not see pure electric power as anything but a niche product. The right technology for fleet users must be a versatile and cost-effective solution and electric power just doesn’t do that.”

So what is the long-term future of van powertrains?

Hybrids and fuel-cells, according to Richard. He said: “In 10 years time, fuel-cells running on hydrogen will overtake the internal combustion engine as the main choice in vans. Hybrids could well be the norm before fuel-cells arrive in a way that electric power could never be.”

SHAPESof things to come

What will vans look like in the future and what

will they contain? John Threadgold investigates

Did you know...?Students discovered that:n Accidents cost the UK £2.7 billion per yearn 75% if the world’s population live in citiesn Vans on average run three quarters of their lives emptyn 25% of all van drivers admit to having fallen asleep at the wheeln 30% of all deliveries fail on the first attempt, costing £110 million

in wasted time and fuel in London alonen 70 delivery men are killed each year on UK roads

Winner Alex Ibett had the novel idea of creating upright cargo compartments much like filing cabinets on wheels which could be clipped

together and added to the rear of a pod which housed the driver (see picture top right). Another student suggested a van which had a gantry at

the back in which different rear ends could be slid in (pictured below).Among the more bizarre ideas was a van in with a soft area at the rear

into which parcels could be thrown. Packages would be sticky so that the delivery man could chuck them at the wall of the correct address.

Here we feature a selection of the entries...

The Berlingo Electric is being launched this year – but it is only expected to be a niche product


Safety special

We’ve all seen it before. Fred the plumber turns up in his battered old LDV

and, opening up the rear doors, he reveals his “racking” in all its glory.

There’s a curious sort of bulkhead affair which appears to be made of chipboard and some shelves on each side that you can buy for your garage in the Sunday papers, fixed to the sides with self-tapping screws.

“Aren’t you afraid of injuring yourself in an accident with that lot?” you ask. “Nah,” replies Fred. “Bin doin’ this job nigh on 40 years and ain’t hurt mesen yet!”

For Fred and everyone like him (could you possibly be one of the guilty ones?) we have a stern

message: Just stop and think! You are putting not only yourself in danger by skimping on racking but also anyone else who happens to be standing nearby.

It’s a fact!The fact of the matter is that in

a crash – even one at fairly low speeds – everything in the back of your van will fly forwards at an alarming speed.

Bulkheads like Fred’s will be torn to shreds and all the shelving will be shattered, leaving your cargo to wrap itself round the back of your head.

If you are strapped in and have no room to move forwards, you’ll probably be fatally squashed. It’s as

RACKING:Skimp on this important addition to

your van and it could cost you your life

Top tips for safe loading

n Do not overload storage systems or vehicles

n Do not place unsecured objects behind where occupants sit

n Place heavy objects as low as possible in the stowage area

n Do not place unsecured objects directly in the occupant compartment of the vehicle

n Stow tools and equipment in racking systems

n Use appropriate tie-downs, lashing and netting to secure larger loads and equipment in the rear of the vehicle

n Check that tie-down points and lashing systems are not damaged or worn and have them fixed or replaced if they are

n Check load restraints and lashings after beginning a journey or after heavy braking to ensure the motion of the vehicle and the settling of the load have not loosed it

Don’t take our word for it: here’s the proof!We were invited to a very special testing event at the TRL headquarters to prove just how dangerous bad loading and cheap bulkheads and racking can be.

The first test involved what was probably a typical builder’s van that we see every day on the roads and don’t think twice about.

On board was a pallet of bricks, a generator, some road cones and tools, along with some DIY racking that looked OK-ish to start with.

On the roof was a plastic tube carrier filled with copper piping and the whole load weighed 515kg, just about half the van’s official payload.

The vehicle was crashed at 30mph. The racking virtually disintegrated. The bricks were almost all broken in half. The whole load piled itself into the bulkhead, snapping it off and pushing it into the cab.

The plastic tube carrier snapped off and its contents went flying

forwards, with potentially fatal consequences.

Worse was to reveal itself when we watched a slow motion film of the crash. The load had pushed itself forward into the back of the driver’s seat.

As the driver was being restrained from going forwards by the seatbelt, it is likely that he would have suffered major injury or death.

Test 2In comparison, the second test

seemed rather tame but was carried out to show how much safer things could be when loads are restrained properly. This van was fitted with a racking system provided by Sortimo.

The racking was filled with various sized packages and there were some odd items such as traffic cones strapped in with proper restraining leashes.

As we examined the vehicle after the crash, it had hardly altered.

The racking was slightly bent, but even the packets stayed put.

These before and after pictures show the devastation that can occur in a 30mph crash when a van is badly loaded and with cheap racks and bulkhead

~

~It has been proven in crash tests that if a vehicle with a payload weighing 100kg collides at 30mph, the load becomes 40 times its weight, becoming a deadly force

as it flies towards the driver

With cheap racking systems, you risk not only your

own life in the event of an accident but also the lives of

those all around you

Lightweight, fl exible and versatile van racking solutions to maximise effective payload.

call 0800 027 5644www.sortimo.co.uk

GLOBELYST M – RACKING SOLUTIONS

Anzeige_87,5x123,5_UK.indd 1 23.05.12 11:27

simple as that.Meanwhile if you have

a sub-standard roof rack, that too will snap, allowing its contents to fly forwards and injure any innocent passing pedestrians.

It doesn’t bear thinking about, does it?

Sortimo has been manufacturing quality racking and fabrications for 37 years now.

A spokesman told us: “Even an unsecured cola bottle can become a 30kg missile in a minor accident.

“Equate that to a power tool or a toolbox – or any other piece of equipment that is in the back of a van – and the risks being taken by the occupants becomes clear.

“It has been proven in regular crash tests that if a vehicle with a payload weighing 100kg

collides at 30mph, the load becomes 40 times its weight, becoming a deadly force as it flies towards the driver.”

Sortimo crash tests its racking systems to standards 16 times higher than the industry standard DIN regulations.

Rigorous testing helps to ensure that the driver and passengers are not endangered by the load in the event of a collision.

Sortimo used a 600kg load (instead of the compulsory 36kg load for DIN testing) which, combined with its in-vehicle storage system’s weight made for nearly 1,000kg of total load weight.

The result: equipment and load remained securely in position, ensuring that the occupants remained protected.

For more information call 0845 7400 777 or visit www.vauxhall.co.uk/vans

BUILT IN BRITAIN. FOR BRITAIN.

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES The Wheels of Business

VAUXHALL VIVARO

Safety


Simple solutionsthat will save lives

Road safety: the key facts and figuresn 30,000 killed on Britain’s roads in the last decaden 300,000 seriously injured in crashes on Britain’s

roads in the last decaden 73 people are killed or seriously injured on our

roads every dayn There has been a 21% reduction in the number of

fatal crashes on UK motorways and A roads over the last three years

n 8% of Britain’s motorways and A roads have unacceptably high risk

n In the last 10 years average risk on motorways and A roads has halved from medium risk to low risk

n 90% of motorways achieve the best possible safety standard, compared to 35% of duals and just 14% of single carriageways

n 65% of all fatal and serious crashes occur on single carriageways, 14% on mixed, 11% on duals and 10% on motorways

n Single carriageways have six times the risk of motorways and three times the risk of duals

Whatever we do to improve vehicles and roads, accidents will always

happen. And when they do, they cause death, damage, destruction and heartache. And of course, financial chaos.

So if you drive a van in the course of your business it’s understandable that you’ll want to avoid a crash at all costs.

But imaginee that you’ve done everything you can to keep from harm – buying a safe van, driving sensibly etc etc – and you suffer a crash because of what you believe to be a dangerous road. Who is to blame then?

Councils also complain that they can’t upgrade and repair roads because they can’t afford it – and in

these straitened times they probably have a point.

But the question is: can they afford NOT to mend roads?

A report has proved that simple measures on the worst roads can pay for themselves in just 10 weeks and can save millions of pounds annually.

Simple improvementsAccording to the report, entitled

Simple Measures Save Lives, by the Road Safety Foundation, more than 300 people in the UK are alive today or have avoided a lifetime of special care because just 15 roads have had simple improvements put in place.

On these 15 roads alone, fatal and serious crashes dropped 62%

Van drivers are dying needlessly on Britain’s roads as councils shy away from repairs and upgrades. But a report shows that such cost-

cutting is counter-productive. John Threadgold investigates

~

~Councils complain that they can’t upgrade and

repair roads because they can’t afford it – but the question is: can they afford

NOT to mend roads?

Confusing road signs can lead to unnecessary crashes

from 494 to 190. The report shows that elementary safety measures are paying back the cost of investment in an average of 10 weeks. The savings are worth over £50 million annually to emergency services, the NHS, local authority care, businesses and families.

This year’s most improved road is an 11km section of the A4128 through Buckinghamshire from Great Missenden to High Wycombe. Over the last two surveys, it has moved from one of Britain’s highest risk roads to one of the safest. Over this time, fatal and serious collisions dropped by 89%, from 19 to two.

This non-primary single carriageway A road is a busy route connecting local villages and carrying high volumes of commuter traffic. Safety measures put in place include some new speed restrictions and an innovative use of solar-powered road studs to improve night-time visibility. Of the UK’s 15 most improved roads, almost half are single carriageways, and are spread across the country.

Consultation with road authorities on these sections found that common crash types were single vehicles losing control at bends and rear-end collisions at junctions during the busiest periods.

Improvements on the 15 roads include:n Signing, markings and the design

and layout of junctionsn Speed limit review and the use of

speed enforcementn Resurfacing, including the use of

high-friction, anti-skid treatments on bends

n Central safety barriers. On these 15 improved routes,

report author Dr Joanne Hill says: “These are practical, largely inexpensive solutions which will

pay back the costs of investment in an average of 10 weeks – a 500% rate of return in the first year alone – and go on saving lives and saving money for the nation for many years to come. Much of this remedial work can be done as part of routine maintenance.”

Only one major scheme features in the top 15 list of most improved sections – the notorious “Cumberland Gap”, a missing six-mile section of M6 motorway between England and the Scottish border. The motorway was completed in 2008. The resulting drop in deaths and serious injuries was dramatic – down from 15 to two.

Hill said: “The lesson of the Cumberland Gap is that motorways

are Britain’s safest roads and that there are safety dividends from upgrading deficits in safety features on dual carriageways.”

Worst roadsBritain’s most persistently high

risk roads are concentrated in the North West and East Midlands. Routes in these areas are rural single carriageway, challenging to drive, with frequent blind corners and sweeping bends. Lighter traffic allows higher speeds and opportunities for safe overtaking can be restricted.

Topping the list, is the A537 Macclesfield to Buxton. This 12km section across the Peak District National Park has seen crashes rise by 62% in the last three years.


Security special

in association with

In an ideal world, trade van drivers would buy their vans and run them in standard spec without

fear of having their valuable cargo pinched. We do not, of course, live in an ideal world. We live in a world in which light commercial vehicles are at risk from thieves every minute of the day and in every conceivable way.

And while the vehicle manufacturers have made great strides in lock technology over the past few years, it seems that the thieves always manage to stay one heist ahead of the game.

The problem is that vans are

rather like huge tin cans and can be burgled in a variety of ways.

Experts would be the first to admit that for a determined thief with plenty of time, no security measures will work. But most thieves are opportunists – ones who spot that a driver has accidentally left a door open and pounce; or ones who skulk around in car parks and motorway service stations at night waiting for easy pickings.

And these low-lifers CAN be beaten. The secret is to fit vans with secondary locks with a high visual presence.

The one thing these people don’t

have is time – and with a big fat lock fitted to the outside, a thief will look at your van, decide the effort isn’t worth it and (hopefully) move on to someone else’s.

Locks 4 Vans manufactures a huge range of devices that will help keep your vehicles safe, including deadlocks and slamlocks.

A deadlock is a mechanical device fitted to a vehicle door. It operates by throwing a bolt into a receiver fitted to the opposing body section when operated by an external key.

As deadlocks are under the control of the driver, they are generally only appropriate for owner

THIEVES:don’t let them ruin YOUR business!

drivers or applications where the driver can be relied upon to operate the lock.

L4V kits are vehicle door specific and contain all the required fixings, fittings and instructions to enable a technician to perform a cost-effective installation. All L4V cylinders, housings and plugs are plated in highly durable satin nickel to maintain a consistent and long lasting appearance.

External trims are available as either UV stabilised black nylon, or satin nickel-plated brass to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle. Both versions are suitable for fitment to vehicle bodywork without causing damage to paintwork.

A slamlock is a device that automatically locks the vehicle door immediately it is shut, without requiring any operation by the driver.

It is primarily designed for applications such as multi-drop delivery, high value loads and applications where the owner/ operator requires control over the security of their goods. It is the function that appeals as much as the security.

Another major advantage with

mechanical slamlocks is total control. Electronic systems often have either global (all doors) or area (load or cab) unlocking – this leaves the unrequired doors vulnerable until the auto relock action operates. Slamlocks do not have this vulnerability.

L4V slamlocks integrate with the vehicle manufacturers’ locking systems. This provides maximum security along with straightforward

installation. They combine a genuine security slam operation with a high visual deterrent and a pleasing appearance.

All L4V slamlock kits are designed with escape from locked load areas, via the manufacturer’s own internal exit mechanism in mind. This is an extremely important feature as it ensures compliance with Health & Safety at work and Corporate Manslaughter legislation.

Top tips for keeping your vans safe from the crooksn Remove ignition key when leaving the vehiclen Keep the keys with youn Lock the doors and vehicle’s load space when leaving the van unattendedn Do not leave the windows open when away from the vehiclen Plan your journey carefully and avoid spontaneous stops

n Use anti-theft devices on vansn Do not carry unauthorised passengersn Never leave valuable items on displayn Ensure nothing valuable is left in the van if it is unattended overnightn When carrying a high-value load, travel in convoy with other trusted drivers. Beware of bogus officials

or staff and, if in doubt, ask for identificationn If your loads are valuable then it is wise to alternate your routes occasionally so that would-be criminals are unable to predict a valuable load’s position at any one timen Keep the load documentation in a secure place

Never leave valuable items on display

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of the Master Locksmith Association and Automotive Locksmith Association. The company is justly proud that three of its

products have been accredited by the Motor Industry’s Test House at Thatcham.

On test: Renault Trafic Sport 115

22 TVD Issue 8 2013 23 TVD lssue 8 2013TVD Launch 2011 .29

Launch Layout_Layout 1 31/10/2011 10:45 Page 29

SPoRTySMART!

andIf you want a van that will speak volumes

about your business, the Renault Trafic Sport will hit the spot nicely.

John Threadgold reports

Price (ex-VAT): £19,870Power (bhp/rpm): 115/3,500Torque (lb-ft/rpm): 221/1,500Fuel (mpg:) 40.9CO2 emissions (g/km): 180Cargo volume (cu m): 5.0Payload (kg): 1,080GVW (kg): 3,005

Spec sheet

Behind the wheelOver the years we’ve talked to many tradesmen who run Trafics and they all say the same thing: “They’re great!” And we totally agree.

Of all the vans I have driven in my life this is probably the best the drivability stakes.

I remember attending the launch of the Trafic in Copenhagen back in 2001 and us journos were all astounded – it was the first van to offer a true car-like driving experience. And 11 years down the line the Trafic is still way ahead of some of the opposition, although it must be said that after driving the new Transit Custom rival which is due on sale this year, Ford will be giving this Gallic rival a run for its money.

But back to the Trafic. In the cab the seats are big and comfortable and there are plenty of cubby holes for white van man’s various bits and pieces.

The free TomTom unit works a treat and in our book is about as good as sat-nav gets. But being built in, the unit also controls all the

audio functions as well. The engine fires up quietly and smoothly and the gears snick into place nicely, which all makes for a driving experience somewhat akin to that of a big MPV.

The output of 115bhp doesn’t really sound a lot, especially for a “sport” model. But the fact that maximum torque comes in at such a low rev rate (1,500 to be precise) imbues this van with a sense of urgency that belies its power rating. (In other words, it feels quicker than it really is! - Ed)

Turning to the outside of the vehicle we really can’t think of a better way of presenting an upmarket image of your business than to turn up in a van like this.

The metallic paint gives a lovely silver shimmer to the bodywork and the alloy wheels set it off to a tee.

VerdictThe design gurus at Renault must be congratulated for producing a van which has stood the test of time for so long.

Put yourself for a minute, if you will, in the shoes of a customer. Say, for example,

you asked a plumber to come round and fix your central heating and he turned up in a 15-year-old LDV Pilot covered in rust, what would you think?

Chances are you would view this individual – and indeed his plumbing skills – with the utmost suspicion.

Even worse, you might turn him from your door and decide to get

someone else in to do the job.Now imagine he turned up in the

van on test here, the Renault Trafic Sport? Then what would you think?

Quite likely you would say to yourself: “Ey up – here’s a lad who’s going somewhere! He’s smart, efficient and he cares enough about his job to get himself some stylish wheels.”

Your van really is that important – it can mean the difference between running a successful business and ending up on the dole queue.

Manufacturers like Renault are well aware of this fact of life and now offer all sorts of vans that look absolutely brilliant – and with lots of finance deals on offer, there really isn’t any excuse for scruffiness any more.

The Renault Trafic – and its twin brother the Vauxhall Vivaro – were launched back in 2001 but despite their age, they still cut the mustard

on Britain’s roads. In fact these vans are pretty much up near our list of favourites to drive.

For £19,870 you get as standard a snazzy set of alloy wheels, a great Carminat TomTom Live sat-nav unit built in to the dash, front foglights and metallic paint. This van really does look the business.

It also comes with goodies such as electric windows and electric heated door mirrors, ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, a full steel bulkhead and remote central locking.

Under the bonnet goes Renault’s tried and tested 2.0-litre common rail diesel powerplant offering 115bhp and 221lb-ft of torque.

This figure is a long way behind the “loony toons” Volkswagen Transporter Sportline at 180bhp, but to be honest most responsible trade van drivers will be quite happy with what’s on offer here.

The above mentioned firecracker also weighs in at an eye-watering £28,460 by the way!

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First drive: Fiat Ducato L1H1 110

24 TVD Issue 8 2013

UK

registered charity no 1072105. P

atron HR

H The P

rincess Royal.

By Matthew Eisenegger

Did you know that 60% of camper vans sold in Europe nowadays are based on the

Fiat Ducato, the van on test here?There’s a very good reason why

so many converters use the Italian made van – it’s about as car-like a drive as you’ll find in a panel van and an absolute delight on the roads.

In fact if you asked me what was my favourite large van to drive, the Ducato would be pretty near the top of the list.

This may be an important point if you are one of those trades people who need a large van for your job but baulk at the idea of actually driving one.

The van on test here, the medium wheelbase low roof variety offering 110bhp, sits near the bottom of the range but nevertheless offers a good lot of standard goodies which will keep you happy during your working day.

The van is powered by a 2.3-litre

turbodiesel unit which, despite its fairly lowly output, nevertheless feels sprightly under way. If 110bhp isn’t enough for your liking then there are also variants offering 130bhp, 148bhp and 177bhp, although of course you’ll have to pay extra for those. This model comes in at a basic £22,295 ex-VAT.

Despite its size, this van is slated to return 40.9 miles per gallon on the combined cycle, although bear

in mind that this figure is calculated with the van empty on a rolling road, so any heavy weights in the back will reduce this figure.

And talking of the back, the medium wheelbase model will swallow 10 cubic metres of cargo with a payload of 1,600kg.

Price (ex-VAT): £22,295Power (bhp/rpm): 110/3,600Torque (Nm/rpm): 300/1,800Fuel (mpg:) 40.9CO2 emissions (g/km): 189Cargo volume (cu m): 10.0Payload (kg): 1,600GVW (kg): 3,500

Spec sheet

Behind the wheelNot everyone is confident and happy driving a 3.5-tonne van, but as stated above, this big vehicle is tame as a pussycat on the roads and you could for all the world be driving a big car.

There’s a six-speed gearbox that snicks into place nicely, power steering that’s weighted just right

and a nimbleness that some big vans don’t possess.

Our test vehicle came with a reversing sensor (an extra at £230) – and we’d definitely recommend this. The driver’s seat is an absolute delight, with loads of side and lumbar support – and it adjusts every whichway so all size of

driver should find a comfortable position.

Included in the standard spec are electrically adjustable heated mirrors, full steel bulkhead, ABS brakes (but not ESP traction control) and a

driver’s airbag.In the rear, there are an amazing

13 load lashing eyes (a sector record I believe), including five halfway up the sides of the van where they are most needed. We would, however, recommend opting for a plastic load floor (£384) which our test vehicle didn’t have.

DelightfulDUCATO

First drive: Mercedes-Benz Vito Sport Dualiner

26 TVD Issue 8 2013 XX TVD lssue xx 201319 TVD lssue 6, September 2012

Leading The Way In Vehicle Safety Solutions

Ove

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VT42AEMM Mirror Monitor Rear Vision System

AllÊtheÊbeneÞtsÊofÊtheÊspace-savingÊsystemÊwithÊaddedÊversatilityÊwhereÊtheÊultra-compactÊmonitorÊisÊreplacedÊbyÊaÊcleverÊmirrorÊmonitorÊwhichÊactsÊasÊaÊusefulÊdeterrentÊtoÊopportunistÊthievesÊwhoÊmayÊthinkÊtheÊordinaryÊcameraÊmonitorÊisÊaÊSatelliteÊnavigationÊsystem.

CompleteÊsystemÊcomprisesÊofÊ4.2ÓÊmirrorÊmonitor,ÊÊcompactÊcolourÊcamera,ÊcableÊandÊÞxings. TheÊ4.2ÊÒÊmirrorÊmonitorÊandÊsuspendedÊcameraÊisÊsuitableÊforÊanyÊcommercialÊvehicleÊapplication.ÊÊTheÊmonitorÊcanÊbeÊusedÊwithÊtheÊVT56AEÊcameraÊifÊaÊmoreÊruggedÊcameraÊisÊrequired.

Key Specifications

Vision Techniques PLCPhoenixÊHouse,ÊÊPhoenixÊParkBlakewaterÊRoad,ÊÊBlackburnLancashire.ÊÊÊBB1Ê5SJ

Contact UsT.Ê01254Ê679Ê717F.Ê01254Ê690Ê919E.Ê[email protected]

For further information...

Monitor ¥Ê 4.2ÓÊLCDÊproÞleÊwideÊscreenÊrationÊ16:9Ê¥Ê ViewÊangleÊ(U/D/L/R):25/45/45/45Ê¥Ê Resolution:Ê320(V)*234(H)ÊTVÊlines

¥Ê PowerÊRequirementsÊ:Ê12-24ÊDCÊ¥Ê OperatingÊTemp.ÊRange:Ê-20¡CÊtoÊ+70¡CÊ(±3)¥Ê DimensionsÊ280(L)ÊxÊ91(W)ÊxÊ30Ê(D)

Camera¥Ê ImageÊType:ÊColourÊSONYÊCCDÊ¥Ê ResolutionÊ(pixelsÊ):PAL:500(H)*582(V)Ê

,NTSC:510(H)*492(V)Ê¥Ê ImageÊSize:Ê1/4ÊInchÊ¥Ê Lens:Ê2.1mm,ÊF2.0Ê¥Ê LensÊangle130¡/150¡Ê

¥Ê HorizontalÊResolution:420TVLÊ¥Ê IPÊ67Êwaterproof,Ê&ÊdustÊresistanceÊ¥Ê PowerÊSupply:ÊDC12V±10%Ê¥Ê PowerÊConsumption:Ê²1WÊ¥Ê OperatingÊTemperatureÊRange:Ê-30¡ÊtoÊ+65¡

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Mirror MonitorRear Vision System

This clever device means vehicles can be left unattended without the worry of the reversing camera monitor being stolen by opportunist thieves.

The ultra-compact reverse camera system, which thieves may think is a GPS system, is transformed so it looks like an ordinary rear view mirror.

The Mirror Monitor, which has all the benefits of mobile CCTV, incorporates 4.2” LCD profile-wide monitor and high resolution colour Sony CCD mini-camera.

Monitor• 4.2” LCD profile wide screen ration 16:9• View angle (U/D/L/R):25/45/45/45• Resolution: 320(V) 234(H) TV lines• Power Requirements : 12-24 DC• Dimensions 280(L) x 91(W) x 30 (D)

CameRa• Image Type: Colour SONY CCD• Resolution (pixels ): PaL:500(H) 582(V),NTSC: 510(H) 492(V)• Image size: 1/4 inch• Lens: 2.1mm, F2.0• Lens angle130°/150°

SPECIFICATION

By Matthew Eisenegger

If your business is doing well and you want to treat yourself to something a bit more than a bog

standard van, try this for size – the Mercedes-Benz Vito Sport Dualiner, looking a million dollars in alloy wheels, side chrome bars, metallic paint and tinted windows.

And it doesn’t stop there. Open the side sliding doors and inside you’ll find a second row of seats that can be used, folded down or removed as required.

This van isn’t just a pretty face – it’s practical too.

And it’s as fast as it looks. Lurking beneath the bonnet is a perky 2,143cc diesel powerplant offering a meaty 163bhp and 360Nm of torque. You won’t be disappointed believe us. If you are, then try the Sport X model – it has a staggering 224bhp under it bonnet. Woof!

This van isn’t exactly bargain basement. In this guise and

including VAT, it weighs in at £26,395. But then no-one ever pretended that quality comes cheap – and you certainly won’t find a better quality vehicle than this one.

It’s chunky and has that built-to-last-forever feel that you just don’t get with some other manufacturers.

Just look at the pictures and imagine your logo emblazoned on

the side. What an upmarket story it will tell your clients and customers!

For the money you get an awful lot of standard kit too, including six-spoke alloys, metallic paint, air-conditioning, comfort seats, full wall panelling, leather steering wheel, twin side

sliding doors, chrome side bars, sport floor mats and tinted glass.

As with all Mercedes vans, this model has as standard Electronic Stability Program, and ABS brakes, acceleration skid control, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist.

Price (inc-VAT): £26,395Power (bhp/rpm): 163/3,800Torque (Nm/rpm): 360/1,600-2,400Fuel (mpg:) 37.7CO2 emissions (g/km): 198Cargo volume (cu m): 3.0-5.2Payload (kg): 895GVW (kg): 3,050

Spec sheet

Behind the wheelSome of jobs as editor of Trade Van Driver are better than others.

But when this van arrived at my house complete with its climate control and I had a 200-mile trip ahead of me on a hot day, I wound up the windows, turned down the heat, put on my favourite CD, headed for the M6 and figured that life couldn’t get much better.

The Vito is a delight to drive, with firm seats that offer support in all the right places, a classy stereo system and enough power to cruise past all the other bog standard vans with ease.

Mind you, I have to admit that I’ve got a few points on my licence, so I had to be careful as on several occasions, I found my speed kept

nudging up above the limit. There’s so much power – and it is delivered with such smoothness – that you just don’t notice.

This problem apart the Vito gained admiring looks from all directions and with the option of taking out the back seats (which weigh a ton), the Vito makes a VERY practical proposition.

SPoRTybut practical too

Safety special

28 TVD Issue 8 2013 XX TVD lssue xx 2013TVD December 2011

December 2011_Layout 1 06/12/2011 21:04 Page 21

We’ve all been there – just a few miles from home and we can hardly keep our

eyes open. Not worth stopping now, is it? Just push on.

But did you know that driver fatigue is estimated to contribute to around 20% of road collisions – and although driving when tired isn’t illegal, it is reckoned to be as dangerous as drink driving.

Being fatigued significantly raises the risk of a collision. It makes van drivers less alert to what is happening on the road and less able to react quickly and safely if a dangerous situation arises.

According to training specialist Interactive Driving Systems, the two main causes of fatigue are lack of quality sleep (sleep debt) and driving at times when people would normally be asleep.

A spokesman said: “If you don’t get enough sleep you go into ‘debt’ – you ‘owe’ yourself more sleep. The only way to repay this debt is by sleeping. Until you catch up on your sleep, you have a greater risk of having a fatigue-related collision.”

Drivers also put themselves at risk of a fatigue-related collision if they:

n Drive in the early morning (1am-6am), when they would normally be sleepingn Travel in the afternoon lull (1-4pm), when the biological clock makes us all feel sleepyn Start a big trip after a long day’s workn Have a sleep disorder such as sleep apnoea Symptoms include:n Constant yawningn Drifting in the lanen Sore or heavy eyes

n Trouble keeping the head upn Delayed reactionsn Daydreamingn Difficulty remembering the last few kilometresn Variations in driving speed.

Advice to combat tired driving includes planning journeys more diligently, identifying places where drivers know they can stop safely to rest and being aware of the body’s biological clock or circadian rhythms – increased collision risk between 1-6am and 1-4pm.

n Plenty of fresh air through the window will help keep me alert. A short-term benefit at best.n Young people need less sleep. Under 25s are over-represented in fatigue-related collisions.n “I know when I’m tired, or having sleep attacks”. You may only find out when it’s too late.

n Having a short break will keep me safe. Once you are fatigued you must sleep.n Coffee is a good way to combat fatigue. Coffee/caffeine only provides short-term benefits. Once its effects wear off, you suffer from sleep rebound, which is a major cause of collisions.

n Playing music will help keep me alert. This provides only a short-term benefit.Remember – the only cure for fatigue is sleep.If you start to feel tired take a powernap of 10 minutes or more, which can significantly lower the risk of a fatigue-related collision.

Popular misconceptions about driving while tired

TIRED?then you’re an accident just waiting to happenBy Matthew

Eisenegger

The danger of driving while tired cannot be overestimated

Accident compensation advice

30 TVD Issue 8 2013

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Most people are lucky enough to never suffer an accident, but those who do find the

experience at the very least painful and inconvenient, and at worst life changing. However, many are unaware that from April significant changes are being made to compensation claims for the injured victims of accidents.

THE CURRENT RULESIf you are injured in an accident

that is the fault of another party, you have a legal right to claim compensation for the injury, together with any financial losses you have suffered (including lost wages) and any expenses you have had to pay as a direct result of the accident.

If successful, in most types of personal injury claim, the guilty party (or more likely their insurers) also has to pay your legal costs. These include the fees incurred by your solicitor, which are usually calculated on the time they have spent, VAT and the expenses paid in proving the claim (eg for medical evidence, Court fees, etc).

This means that currently, no matter what the outcome of the claim, most personal injury solicitors ensure that you pay no legal costs at all, and if successful you keep 100% of your compensation.

THE FUTUREEverything changes on 1 April.

The Government is introducing measures that will have a detrimental effect on injured victims, adding to the trauma of the accident.

Although the full extent of these changes is not yet known, a factor that may have the greatest impact is in respect of the legal costs if a claim is successful.

The guilty party will continue to pay your compensation, but will no longer be required to pay all of your legal costs. In fact, if current proposals are put into effect, the amount of costs they will have to pay will be slashed, irrespective of the amount of work your solicitor has to do, leaving a significant shortfall in the total bill. Solicitors must act in your best interests and, to properly value your claim so you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to, there are certain steps they must take.

These include obtaining

comprehensive medical evidence and exploring the possible items of financial loss that can be attributed to the accident. If corners are cut, there is a danger that the claim may be settled too cheaply.

From April, solicitors will have to alter the way they operate to become even more efficient and cost-effective, but they will be unable to stay in business unless you make a contribution for the work done on your behalf. Recognising this, the new rules require you to set aside up to 25% of your compensation for your own legal costs. You will therefore need a trusted specialist to ensure you are awarded the maximum amount possible.

ACT NOWIf you have already been injured

in an accident, but are not sure whether to make a claim, take advice now so you can benefit from the current system. Any delay could cost you dearly.

Accident claims: act now before the law changes!

This article is written by Steven hinchliffe, owner of the specialist personal injury

firm hinchliffes Solicitors. his firm has helped very many accident victims recover the compensation they

are legally entitled to

For further information please call 0800 915 0040.

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Com

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Trade Van Drive 0008