Drivers warned of hidden dangers of dashboard clutter
Van drivers have been warned that dashboard clutter could pose a serious safety risk.
A survey of more than 1,300 van drivers carried out by MoneySuperMarket has found that one in six say they drive with a clutter on their dashboard, with one in five saying they regularly leave food or drink packaging in their vehicles.
However, 32% were unaware of the safety risk loose debris could pose despite one in 10 admitting they have had a near miss as a result of debris in their vehicles.
Apart from the safety risks, drivers could also receive a fine of £100 and three penalty points if loose items obstruct pedals or cause distraction, while anyone involved in an accident caused by clutter could be fined up to £5,000 and receive nine penalty points.
Loose clutter
Alicia Hempstead, van insurance expert, said: “Loose clutter such as empty hot drink containers, food packaging and plastic bottles can quickly build up when you’re using your vehicle regularly. But loose items aren’t just a bit untidy, they can cause accidents, be a fire hazard, lead to fines and even invalidate your insurance. Clearing out your van takes just a few minutes and not doing it could be costly.”
She continued: “Loose items in a van cab have a habit of ending up where they shouldn’t. Whether that’s a bottle rolling around the floor that could ends up under the pedals, or an old receipt or a food wrapper sticking to the window and obscuring your view. A split-second distraction or blocked control could have serious consequences.
“Also, in summer months loose items in a van can become a fire hazard. Clear plastic bottles could act like a lens in some circumstances, focusing sunlight onto dry packaging or other materials in the cab and even potentially starting a fire. Reflective surfaces like cans or foil wrappers can direct heat in a similar way.”
