Drivers lose staggering £3.7billion every year by injuring themselves in their vehicle
Drivers risk losing out on billions every year
VOLKSWAGEN COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
One third of van drivers have admitted to injuring themselves when loading a van in the past year, new data has shown.
It is estimated that these injuries will cost businesses up to £3.7billion every year, with 48 per cent of those reporting an injury being forced to miss at least one day of work.
The research, from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, found that the average downtime cost was £500 per person, per day.
A further 34 per cent of people had to take more than a week off due to an injury caused by loading or unloading the van, despite the vast majority of people knowing how to properly load a van.
One-third of drivers have admitted to hurting themselves when loading a van in the last year
PA
There are around 4.6 million vans around the UK, meaning that loading-related injuries could cost UK businesses around £3.7billion every year.
Rob Holdcroft, Head of Network Sales at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, highlighted the impact of VW vans and how drivers can protect themselves from injuries.
He said: “Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is on the side of businesses and customers alike and the ability to operate in a safe environment is of the utmost importance to us.
“This is why we work alongside our customers to design vehicles that are effective and supportive as doing so benefits both parties – businesses don’t have big injury bills to pay and operators don’t lose any days on the job.”
The popular all-electric Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo is ergonomically designed to help drivers load and unload their vehicles as safely as possible.
This includes a completely flat load area floor that is 100mm lower than most other vans, allowing for easier access for workers.
Drivers can also customise their vehicle to install a second sliding door on the other wall of the van if they need easy access to the rear of the vehicle.
The brand also references its ergoComfort seats which allow for 20-way adjustment and suspension to deal with the UK’s pothole-ridden roads.
Catherine Quinn, president of the British Chiropractic Association (BCA), urged motorists to take care when working and potentially lifting heavy objects.
She said: “Before going to lift anything, think about how you have prepared your most important tool for the day, your body.
“Take five minutes to warm up your body using simple stretches and full body movements like floor-to-ceiling touches.
“If you are someone who suffers with back pain, try to avoid lifting and twisting with a heavy item.
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The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo is developed to be ergonomic
VOLKSWAGEN COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
“Instead aim to lift the item, and then use your legs to turn rather than twisting through your spine.”
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