Advanced driver assistance systems are making a measurable difference to van drivers across the country, with new research showing just how valuable modern safety systems have become in everyday UK driving.

A recent study by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles found that almost one in five van drivers, 19%, avoided multiple collisions in the past 12 months thanks to advanced safety technology. In addition, 45% said that advanced driver assistance systems helped them avoid at least one crash during the same period.

For businesses operating vans, this data strengthens the case for investing in advanced safety solutions. Reducing collisions is not only about protecting vehicles, it is about safeguarding drivers, limiting downtime and controlling operational costs.

The Most Effective Safety Features

Among drivers who reported narrowly avoiding a crash, parking sensors were identified as the most effective technology. More than half, 58%, said sensors had prevented an accident. Given the size and visibility challenges associated with vans, particularly in tight urban environments, this result reflects the day to day realities of UK driving.

Collision warning systems were credited by 40% of respondents, while park assist technology helped 32% avoid incidents. Speed assistance systems prevented accidents for 27% of drivers.

Other advanced safety features also proved valuable. Lane assist supported 23% of drivers in avoiding collisions, while autonomous emergency braking was highlighted by 22%. Driver drowsiness monitoring, which can detect signs of fatigue and alert the driver, was cited by 15%.

Together, these figures show that advanced driver assistance systems are not simply theoretical benefits listed on a specification sheet. They are actively preventing accidents in real world conditions.

Improved Confidence on the Road

Beyond preventing physical damage, safety systems are also influencing how drivers feel behind the wheel. The study revealed that 74% of van drivers feel safer knowing their vehicle is equipped with ADAS technology.

For many commercial drivers, long hours and busy schedules are part of daily life. Having advanced safety support can reduce stress and improve focus, particularly in congested traffic or unfamiliar areas. Greater confidence can also translate into smoother, more controlled driving behaviour.

Simon Jeffreys, product marketing manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said the data demonstrates that safety technology is significantly benefiting drivers in real world scenarios while helping them feel more secure on the road.

A Wider Industry Shift

The push towards advanced safety is not limited to one manufacturer. Across the fleet sector, there is growing recognition that technology can deliver transformational improvements.

Road safety charity Brake has compared the impact of modern driver assistance technology to the introduction of seatbelts and airbags, highlighting its potential to significantly reduce injuries and road deaths.

Supporting this view, research from the Partnership for Analytics Research in Traffic Safety found that autonomous emergency braking reduces rear end vehicle to vehicle collisions by 49%. Even where an impact cannot be fully avoided, these systems can lessen severity, reducing injury risk and repair costs.

A separate survey of fleet managers by Webfleet found that 61% believe original manufacturer safety features have been effective in preventing collisions within their fleets.

What This Means for Fleets

For van operators, the financial implications of collisions can be substantial. Repairs, insurance claims, lost productivity and driver absence all affect business performance. By investing in advanced safety solutions, businesses can reduce risk and improve overall fleet resilience.

While electric vehicles continue to dominate headlines in the transition to lower emissions, safety systems remain just as important when selecting new vans. Whether diesel, petrol or electric vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems are increasingly becoming a key consideration in fleet decision making.

As technology continues to evolve, advanced safety features are likely to become standard expectations rather than optional extras. For businesses focused on protecting their people and maintaining operational efficiency, embracing modern safety systems is fast becoming a strategic priority in today’s UK driving environment.