Van drivers top rudest road users poll

White van men are under attack again after an online insurance broker revealed the results of a poll of the nation’s rudest drivers.

27% of 1000 UK motorists told VanInsurance.co.uk that van drivers display the least etiquette, followed by taxi drivers (24%) and young people (15%).

The research shows that the rudest offences by van drivers include:

• cutting you up (30%)
• pulling out in front of you (26%)
• tailgating (22%)
• swearing and gesticulating at other road users (10%)
• not saying thank you when another road user gives right of way to them (8%)
• not letting you in (4%)

Lee Grandin, Van Insurance MD, said: “Rude drivers are thoughtless and their bad behaviour contributes to unsafe driving conditions.

“At the very least, rude drivers cause frustration and anxiety and at worst, may indirectly cause road rage or even road traffic collisions.”

The company has the following etiquette tips for van drivers:

1. Remember that your van represents your business, especially if your business name is printed on the side
2. Keep your mouth closed – despite how tempting it might be to abuse members of the public, your next potential job could be listening
3. Try leaving 10 minutes earlier in order to make it to your next job on time and without your blood pressure going through the roof
4. If someone lets you pull out before them or waits for you to pass on a street where vehicles are doubled parked, just flash, smile or raise your hand to say thank you