Van drivers have 'active concern for other road users', according to AXA survey

New research from AXA Business Insurance has blasted the ‘white van man’ stereotype, claiming drivers are selfless, responsible and with a strong moral code.

From helpful acts to heroic deeds, the survey found that the nation’s van drivers have a strong sense of civic duty and an active concern for the safety of other road users. Over half (56 per cent) regularly use their vehicle to benefit others, and nine out of ten would stop to assist a stranger in need - despite the pressure to stay on the move and fit as much as possible into the working day.

Seventy eight per cent of the van drivers questioned said that they’d pull over to help an injured person, 75 per cent said they’d stop to help someone who has been knocked over, and 72 per cent said they’d help out in an accident or crash situation.

In addition, 66 per cent of van drivers would pull over to help a vulnerable looking individual, 65 per cent would stop and help a victim of attack, 44 per cent would stop to assist a driver in a broken down vehicle and 28 per cent would intervene in an incidence of road rage.

Male drivers aged 45 to 54 are most likely to stop and help a stranger, while women aged 55 to 64 are more likely to use their vehicle for the benefit of someone they already know.

Darrell Sansom, managing director at AXA Business Insurance said: “The boorish, selfish and aggressive characteristics associated with the label ‘white van man’ are out dated, unjust and quite frankly unfair.

“We know from our research that people who drive for a living are generally professional and assured behind the wheel.  They’re less likely than other drivers to break laws related to speed and drink-driving and they are safer and more confident than other drivers when handling heavy traffic, roundabouts and overtaking.

“This latest survey shows that they also have high levels of responsibility and care for other road users and just serves to prove how out of touch the stereotype has become.

“In my view, we need to reclaim the label and take back the term. White van man is the nation’s secret superhero. Let’s celebrate him and her as such.”