Stereotypes Busted By Driving Research

As a courier driver using your own van, you may be familiar with the tongue-in-cheek stereotype associated with 'white van man'. However, any negative connotations of this stereotype have now been questioned by recent research from a leading insurance provider. It turns out that the stereotypical image may be completely misleading!

New Research Challenges Stereotype

AXA Business Insurance recently carried out research into the 'white van man', questioning drivers of vans to find out trends in behaviour. (This would have probably included a number of drivers operating in the courier industry.) The research revealed a very positive image of van drivers, finding them to be responsible, selfless drivers with a strong moral code and a good sense of civic duty. Things we in the industry already knew, right?

Helpful Drivers Who Would Stop to Help a Stranger

The research found that 56% of van drivers regularly use their vehicles to help others, and that 90% would stop to help a stranger in need despite being busy working. Such helpful acts suggest a strong concern for other road users. The research also found that van drivers were less likely to break laws involving speeding and drink driving, perhaps because their livelihoods depend on it. It also found that most van drivers are professional, well-trained and assured drivers.

If you are a courier driver, this knowledge certainly won't surprise you. As well as knowing that you don't fit the corny stereotype portrayed by some media, you'll be well aware that the vast majority of other van drivers you encounter in your day-to-day work are just as far that out-dated stereotype as you!

More Interesting Stats About Van Drivers

The statistics also reveal a number of other heart-warming facts about professional drivers. If you work as a courier driver, you may be interested to know that, according to the research, 66% of van drivers would help someone who looked vulnerable, 28% would intervene in a road rage incident, and 72% would help in a crash situation.The research also found that the drivers most likely to help a stranger are male drivers aged 45 to 54. It seems chivalry is alive and well in the delivery industry!

If you work as a courier driver, you may occasionally encounter people who want to propagate the myth of the 'typical white van man'. It is clear, of course, that the reality is extremely positive. However, the best way to combat these kinds of people is simply to keep on driving well and to continue to be a sensible and courteous road user.

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day courier driver jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 3,000 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading courier jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.