More than 1,300 people were injured by parking or reversing vans, according to figures from the Department for transport (DfT).

In fact, parking and reversing account for almost one in 10 serious van accidents, according to an investigation by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Far more parking and reversing incidents also occur which do not have a direct ‘human’ impact – but which will inevitably affect fleet and business operations.

Downtime costs fleets an average of £550 a day per van while average UK car repair bills stand at £1,678, says Volkswagen.

Sarah Cox, head of marketing for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “The figures show how problematic parking and reversing can be for commercial vehicle drivers, especially for those who spend a lot of time negotiating tight spaces.

“Our parking safety technology is offered across the range to allow fleet managers and owners to select the van with the best features to suit their individual operating requirements. It’s all part of our Working With You promise to provide a vehicle and total support package for every UK fleet.”

Parking cameras and sensors can reduce the chance or severity of accidents and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers these driver assistance systems across its range of Caddy, Transporter and Crafter vans.

Park Assist helps eliminate the risk of accidents by parking the vehicle automatically. To use the system, drivers simply press a button and the vehicle uses multiple sensors to steer itself into the tightest parking spots. All drivers have to do is operate the pedals to execute the manoeuvre.

Front and rear parking sensors can be added as part of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Business Pack, while a rear-view camera, Trailer Assist and side protection monitoring are also available as options.

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