Refresher Tips on Safe RV/ Motorhome Driving
Are you planning on hitting the road in your RV during the summer? Recreational Vehicles and your typical family automobile are quite different in their shape, size, and the way they drive. Here are some refresher tips to help keep you safe on the road.
Know the Height
Make sure you know the height of your RV before you hit the road. Now that you’re in a much larger vehicle many of the signs about bridge heights and low clearance levels now apply to you. The last thing you’d want is to turn your RV into a convertible in the middle of a road trip. Make sure you keep an eye on those road signs and look out for those low clearance overpasses, bridges, and tunnels.
Towing Anything?
Make sure anything your towing is secured properly before you take off for your road trip. You don’t want to arrive at your destination to realize that only half of what you packed made it there. Additionally, if you are towing with your motorhome, make sure that you don’t exceed the maximum towing capacity and that you have all the necessary paperwork before you take off. This paperwork often includes the registration and insurance for your trailer or camper. If you’re planning to take a road trip, contact a Westland Insurance broker to make sure you have all the necessary documents and insurance before you leave.
Teamwork
Trying to fit into that tight spot or maneuver around close quarters? Make sure you have someone outside spotting you to watch for obstacles. Teamwork makes for the most efficient road trip when you’re travelling long distances as well. Taking turns driving to avoid fatigue will allow the driver to be more alert while on the road.
Keep your Distance and Watch your Speed
Recreational vehicles drive very different from your average daily vehicle. Being big means they weigh more accelerate slower, and most importantly, they slow down a lot slower. Make sure to watch your speed and leave enough space for you to stop suddenly, which is around 2 RV vehicle lengths. This will not only give you enough time to stop safely, but will also help the vehicles behind you who may not be able to see what’s going on ahead.
Check your Tire Pressure before you leave
Make sure your tire pressure is correct for the weight of your vehicle. This will help give your vehicle a better grip when driving on the road and also help prevent possible flat tires. Having your tires properly inflated can also help reduce unnecessary wear on your tires and can lead to better fuel economy, which are especially important for those long hauls in your RV. Travel safely!