How to Drive a Uhaul Van
Driving a Uhaul van for long distance moving can give you the convenience and flexibility to do the job right.It can be quite overwhelming at first for those who have never driven this type of vehicle before. If you are about to drive a Uhaul van, here is an overview of the steps you need to follow.
Steps for Driving a Uhaul Van
1. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle:This is the most important step when you are learning how to drive a Uhaul van. Before sitting in the driving seat, take some time to get familiar with the location of all the necessary controls, steering wheel, pedals and other important buttons and switches.
2. Set the seat: The first thing to do once you are in the van is to find and adjust your seat. Recline the seat, move it forward or backwards and adjust the seatbelt so it fits comfortably. Additionally, all the other passengers must also adjust their seats and wear their seatbelts for their safety.
3. Check the mirrors: Once your seating position is set, move the rearview and side-view mirrors to adjust the visibility. Make sure that all the mirrors are properly aligned with your eye level so you can have a clear view of the road ahead.
4. Get familiar with the controls: Now that the seating and mirrors are adjusted properly, get familiar with the functioning of the vehicle and its controls. Take a few minutes to practice the use of the ignition, the accelerator, brakes, headlights and the windshield wipers. Also, familiarize yourself with the other necessary controls like the hazard lights and the horn.
5. Check the signals: Once you are familiar with the controlling devices, look at the dashboard for any warning lights and the signal indicators. Check that the indicators are off, and the headlights and the windshield are on, as you prepare to drive.
6. Start the engine: Now it is time to start the engine. Make sure that you check all the precautionary measures i.e all the necessary controls are off, the seatbelt is on, the handbrake is off, and the clutch is all the way in. Push the brakes and turn on the ignition to start the engine.
7. Releasing the handbrake: Put your foot on the brake and release the handbrake. This would enable you to move the vehicle. Gradually release the clutch and move the vehicle until the clutch can be totally released.
8. Drive the vehicle: Move the gearstick into first gear and slowly release the clutch while at the same time pressing the accelerator. Don’t apply too much pressure on the accelerator as you don’t want the vehicle to jerk ahead. When this is done the vehicle will move forward.
9. Practice: You can ultimately continue to practice and familiarize yourself with the Uhaul van while driving. Start driving from slow speeds and then increase the speed gradually when you become comfortable. Don’t worry about the mistakes you make, as it is all part of learning the vehicle.
10. Follow the safety guidelines: At all times follow the safety guidelines and defensive driving rules even when you become confident in driving the Uhaul van. Remember to always check the side and rear-view mirrors and merge lanes confidently. Monitor your speed and slalom between objects.
Conclusion
Once you get familiar with the vehicle then you can enjoy the convenience of driving a Uhaul van for a long distance move. Just remember the mentioned steps and guidelines for safe and smooth vehicle operation.
Whenever you decide to drive a Uhaul van, always make sure to check the vehicle safety and control features before starting your journey.