knocks

[carly1]

has anyone got any tips on how to stop knocking the sills on the lower part of a van? i have done it twicw now and always bits of granite or very low wall when reversing ! when there are no side windows makes it harder i find . i see so many vans with knocks in the same place so i know its not just me !!

[ugly_bob]

true. it's more difficult in a van, but that's why they have big mirrors.
Have a quick look around outside the van before reversing (I know this isn't always practical) to see any possible hazards. If you know they're there, you're less likely to hit them.
And angle your mirrors so you can see the bottom of the van side.

[kwicky]

Some people when switching to a van do not take enough notice of the longer wheel base. If you can keep this in mind when reversing it should ease the problem.

[markja]

make a positive thought to look at were you are going to reverse before doing so. get into the habit of looking earlier i.e. when you arrive somewhere think 'how will i turn round/get out? ' then when you go to leave check that nothing has changed since you looked on your way in.
my mate has had loads of prangs reversing vans and just recently passed his hgv. i told him to take that extra second or so to check and he'll save himself so much grief.
it's quicker to hop out, look for definate,then carry out a clean manouver than it is to hope it's ok, hit something and spend ages sorting it out.
as a proffesional driver of many years ican only say get in the habit of looking first.

[carly1]

thanks for your replies , some good points there. i think i will get out and look more like you say because there are always bits sticking out walls and peoples yards etc . i lost my confidence after i bashed it the 2nd time and didnt want to go back to work , but have driven it since and been fine , trouble is the boss aint a happy fella so i am worrying all the time when driving !!!