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Last updated: 18 March 2026

For many tradespeople, the van really is an “office on wheels.” A small festive touch can feel harmless — but decorations can cause problems if they block your view, distract you, or create a hazard inside the cab. If something goes wrong, that can also complicate an insurance claim.

This guide explains how to keep things festive without taking unnecessary risks.

1) Keep your windscreen and windows clear

UK guidance is clear that drivers must be able to see the road and traffic ahead. Items placed on the windscreen (including decorations) can obscure vision. The Highway Code also states windscreens and windows MUST be kept clean and free from obstructions.

Practical tips:

• Don’t stick anything in the swept area of the windscreen
• Avoid bulky dashboard decorations that can reflect in the glass at night
• Keep suction mounts, hanging items, and tinsel away from your field of view

2) Treat the cab like a work zone: no loose items

Loose ornaments can slide around under braking or cornering. Even if they don’t block your view, they can distract you at the wrong moment — or interfere with controls.

Safer habits:

• Keep the dashboard clear
• Put small items in closed compartments
• Make sure nothing can roll into the driver footwell

3) Be cautious with lights and power leads

Dazzle and reflections

The Highway Code includes guidance on ensuring lights don’t dazzle other road users. Interior lights can also reflect in the windscreen at night and reduce visibility.

If you use interior lights, keep them:

• Steady (not flashing)
• Low brightness
• Positioned so they don’t reflect in the windscreen

Cables and safety systems

Avoid routing power leads anywhere they could snag steering, pedals, or gear controls — and keep clear of airbags and deployment zones.

4) Insurance: avoid assumptions — check your terms

It’s not accurate to say your insurer “won’t cover” an accident just because you added decorations. Claims are assessed against the facts and your policy wording. However, modifications can affect insurance cover, and failing to declare changes that should be declared can lead to disputes.

Good practice:

• If you add anything that could reasonably be viewed as a modification (especially electrics or exterior changes), check your policy terms and ask your insurer what needs declaring [3]
• Keep receipts/photos for any fitted accessories
• Remove decorations if they start slipping, obstructing your view, or causing distraction

5) Low-risk ways to keep it festive

If you want seasonal vibes without the downsides:

• A small, stable, non-reflective decoration positioned away from the driver’s sightline
• A festive playlist set before you set off (avoid fiddling with controls while driving)
• Keep the cabin tidy and uncluttered — especially on dark winter mornings

Sources

1. GOV.UK (DVSA/DfT) — View to the front and windscreen obscuration: View source
2. GOV.UK — The Highway Code, Annex 6 (vehicle maintenance, visibility, dazzle): View source
3. Financial Ombudsman Service — Car modifications and insurance: View source