A new report reveals that many van designs have dangerous blind spots, caused by the A-pillars on either side of the windscreen, which are wide enough to hide a cyclist, motorbike or group of people from view.

Autoglass commissioned MIRA to test driver vision in different makes and models of modern vans and cars.

The tests included a calculation of the A-Pillar blind spot, or ‘A-Spot’ – the width of objects obscured from a driver’s vision at 23 metres; the stopping distance required when travelling at 30mph.

The Ford Transit had an A-Spot measuring 6.4 metres – three times larger than the best performing saloon car, the Mercedes C Class – and capable of hiding two full sized motorcycles or a group of cyclists from the driver’s view, according to MIRA.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Vito had A-Spots of 6.3 metres and 6.2 metres, capable of hiding a group of 15 children.

And even the small models didn’t escape with the VW Caddy having an A-Spot of 4.2 metres.

Autoglass is now calling for the Government to review manufacturing guidelines on vans.

Nigel Doggett, managing director at Autoglass, said: “We will be communicating the A-Spot road safety message to our own internal fleet of van drivers through a road safety programme and all drivers will be issued with advice.

“We would also like to see the Driving Standards Agency provide guidance for driving instructors on educating new drivers about the A-Spot.”