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No matter what vehicle you're using, it's important to keep 2 hands on the wheel at all times. To give yourself maximum control, imagine that your steering wheel is a clock and keep your hands at the 9-o'clock and 3-o'clock positions. This is particularly important for vans because, if you don't keep a firm grasp on the wheel, you could lose control of the vehicle and cause a rollover. Vans are heavier and bulkier than normal cars, meaning they take longer to brake. To account for this, leave more space than normal between yourself and other cars. As a general rule, leave at least 4 seconds of distance between you and the car in front of you. To calculate how far behind a car you are, wait until the car passes a clear object or road marker. As soon as it does, count how many seconds it takes until you pass that same object. Depending on the area and the exact size of the vehicle, your van may be subject to special speed restrictions different from the posted speed limit. In most cases, this will be 10 miles (16km) per hour lower than the max for standard cars. To see if an area you're traveling in enforces van-specific speed limits, contact the local Department of Motor Vehicles or search online for local driving regulations. Vans are tall and narrow, which means they're more prone to tipping over. Though not usually a problem on straight paths, this can make turning more precarious. To minimize the risk of tipping, slow down to around 5 to 10 miles (8.0 to 16.1km) per hour before making sharp turns. To avoid colliding with curbs, road signs, and other vehicles, make sure your van is positioned in the left or right-most lane, depending on which direction you need to turn. Make sure other vehicles are far enough away from the van that you won't side sweep them when turning. Then, make your turn, waiting until you are far enough into the intersection that your vehicle's back end won't hit other cars. Before changing lanes or backing up, put on your blinkers to indicate your intentions. Then, check all your mirrors for other cars and pedestrians. If your cargo van has a clear back window, turn your head and look through it to make sure there are no cars in your blind spot. If necessary, get out of your van to check the surroundings before backing up. Though vans are not as large as semi trucks, they are significantly taller than normal cars, meaning they may not be able to go under bridges and ledges other vehicles can. Before going under a low ledge, check the clearance sign on top to see if your van is short enough to fit underneath. Do not go under ledges that are lower than your vehicle. Most major bridges are tall enough to accomodate semi trucks, so look out primarily for old, small-town bridges and clearance poles at places like gas stations and fast food restaurants.
Drive with 2 hands firmly on the wheel. Leave extra space between you and other vehicles. Obey van specific speed limits. Slow down more than normal when approaching turns. Make wide turns. Check your mirrors before backing up or changing lanes. Be cautious before going under bridges and other low ledges.