It has been revealed that van motorists are the best on UK roads.

A van insurance survey polled 1,000 van insurance customers and found surprising and possible egotistical results.

The study exposed that 67% believe they are best drivers on the road. Of those questioned 52% thought that van drivers are the most polite road users and 59% think they are the most experienced on motorways, due to long working hours on the road.

The poll also revealed that 42% van drivers named bus drivers are best at sticking to speed limits, while as 36% agreed that taxi drivers had a better knowledge of the highway code. A defiant 27% of van drivers thought motorists in cars were the least patient drivers on UK roads.

Phil Moss, Commercial Vehicle Manager, from the insurance firm, stated: “It's great that van drivers are confident in their driving ability. But we would urge all motorists not to become complacent about their ability and to always drive with due care.”

However, he reminded motorists on road safety practices: “It is vital that all van drivers refresh themselves with the Highway Code and speed limits regularly, as this can help to reduce accidents on the road and keep van insurance premiums to a minimum.”

A study also revealed that eight out of ten drivers name their vehicle, according to a survey of 1,600 customers. Men were much less likely to name their cars, with fewer than half giving their vehicle a pet name compared to 88% of women.

Steve Chelton, Insurer Development Manager for the group said: “Drivers can quite easily become emotionally attached to their vehicles, and giving an affectionate name is the first step in this process.”

Simply the worst

However, recent news may put the idyllic theory that van drivers are the best – to the test. The current story of a man ploughing a minivan into a house exposes the worst possible van driver techniques ever!

It was revealed that the man was being taught to drive by his friend in a minivan, when he crashed the vehicle into an apartment, injuring the resident who was sitting inside minding his own business.

The crash occurred just after 10.00am at a three-story garden style apartment block, where the 46-year-old unsuspecting victim was sitting.

Due to the crash, the man was left with a leg injury, after he was hit by flying bricks and debris. The two men in the van were also injured.

Authorities said nearly all of the van ended up in the man's bedroom. When the dust settled, only its rear wheels remained outside, authorities said.

A building inspector was called to assess the damage to the apartment, which is typical when a vehicle runs into a building.

Witnesses told authorities that the men were sitting and talking in the parked minivan before it suddenly accelerated, travelling about 25 yards and then hitting the building.

Police said the van's driver was in the country illegally. He was charged with reckless endangerment and driving without a license, police said.

The man's associate, who also did not have a license, was charged with reckless endangerment. Police did not identify the two men in the van but it was revealed that they had been processed at jail.