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Are you found guilty? Check out our key advice for transforming from the most despised vehicle on the road to the most adored.
For some motorists, the mere presence of a caravan ahead provokes intense frustration. Its image evokes that of a snail, leisurely moving along the road without a care in the world. While not all caravan owners fit this stereotype, most are considerate, selfless, and commit no wrong when traveling. Sadly, a few unruly individuals create challenges for everyone else.
Here’s how to avoid being a nuisance while towing a caravan.
Avoid parking in truck bays
Truck parking spaces are scarce compared to regular rest stops for cars and caravans. Despite this, some caravan drivers feel it’s acceptable to occupy a truck stop, preventing heavy haulers from accessing it. Truckers must adhere to strict regulations concerning rest breaks, making it imperative for them to have access to dedicated truck stops without the worry of finding them occupied by motorhomes or caravans.
To avoid being caught in this situation, plan your journey in advance. Refer to resources like Camps Australia, Wikicamps, or CamperMate to identify rest areas that either exclude trucks or are suitable for trucks, cars, and RVs. This proactive approach will prevent situations where an irate truck driver or law enforcement might confront you during the early hours. Furthermore, you won’t find yourself venting on social media about a refrigerated truck running beside you throughout the night!
Install appropriate towing mirrors
It’s alarming to witness the number of caravan owners neglecting to equip their vehicles with proper towing mirrors. Beyond being unsafe, this practice is also illegal. According to Regulation 297 of the Australian Road Rules, “a driver must maintain a clear view of the road, as well as the traffic, in front, behind, and to each side of the vehicle.”
Several ADRs govern the use of towing mirrors, and failing to comply renders your vehicle unroadworthy. A specific ADR, Vehicle Standard (ADR 14/02 – Rear Vision Mirrors) 2006 sections 15.2.4.3.1 and 15.2.4.3.2, specifies the required field of vision for drivers while towing.
When it comes to towing mirrors, there are primarily two types: clip-on and replacement mirrors. Replacement mirrors are the superior choice as clip-ons are notorious for detaching and becoming hazards on the road. We recommend opting for Clearview’s replacement mirrors. While they may be pricier, they offer a platform that connects buyers interested in used Clearviews with sellers.
Avoid accelerating in overtaking lanes
It’s incredibly frustrating and a common trigger for road rage when a caravan maintains a speed of 80-90km/h on the highway but suddenly accelerates in overtaking lanes, forcing other motorists to either trail behind or surpass the speed limit. While this behavior isn’t exclusive to caravans, they seem to attract the most attention.
To promote courtesy, slightly reduce your speed in overtaking lanes to accommodate passing vehicles efficiently. This approach won’t significantly delay your journey, allowing you to reach your destination promptly while facilitating smoother traffic flow.
Another issue arises when caravans create traffic build-ups. If you notice this happening, consider locating a safe spot to pull over and allow overtaking. Granting way to those in a rush will ease the traffic congestion, enabling you to continue your journey without being trailed by a convoy of vehicles.
Avoid excessive speed
During a recent check-in at the Barrow Creek Hotel caravan park, I overheard a traveler proudly recounting, “We left Edith Falls this morning, maintaining 130km/h to arrive before nightfall.” While the Northern Territory permits towing at such speeds, the associated risks are substantial.
Towing at high speeds escalates the likelihood of accidents and extends your braking distance. Consider scenarios like encountering wildlife at speeds exceeding 100km/h or navigating harsh winds while overtaking trucks swiftly. Exercise caution and prioritize safety when towing.
While towing, yield to oncoming traffic before merging onto the road, allowing ample time for others to pass. This practice becomes especially crucial when traveling in a convoy. It’s frustrating when caravans enter a road, forcing you to abruptly slow down from 110km/h and wait for a safe overtaking opportunity. Improved education on merging with traffic benefits all road users, and adhering to two simple rules can enhance road safety:
Avoid monopolizing the view
hoggingIt can be disheartening to reach a complimentary camping spot adjacent to a splendid waterhole and find that it is inaccessible due to caravans lining up along the shore. While waking up and stepping out to enchanting water views is delightful, it’s unjust to others who also wish to savor the same scenery. A better approach would be to have caravans parked in reverse angle, allowing more people to relish the surroundings.
Retain your UHF Etiquette
When you’re preparing to embark on your journey, swinging by Autobarn to acquire some decals for your caravan such as “Bill & Beryl UHF 18 & 40” seems like a nice touch. However, it’s important not to forget switching on the UHF radio as you hit the road. This oversight seems to occur not just once but on a regular basis.
Have you ever pondered why that motorist waved his fist as he passed you? It’s likely that he was attempting to communicate with you, perhaps to inquire about passing safety or to alert you that your caravan door may have detached somewhere behind. For those who display their UHF handles on their caravans, remember to activate the device and respond when hailed.
Another issue that occasionally arises is caravan convoys using UHF channels, particularly 18 or 40, for casual chatter. While it’s nice to share your experiences with friends, other travelers may not appreciate overhearing discussions about mundane topics. If you’re traveling in a convoy and wish to chat with your companions, consider switching to an unused channel to converse freely.
While it’s true that truck drivers can sometimes be heard conversing on channel 40, including colorful language, even they are discouraged within their own community. It’s essential to keep the channels clear for addressing genuine concerns.
Acknowledge a Friendly Gesture
There appears to be a bias among most caravaners towards non-caravan-towing road users. How do I know this? It’s the lack of reciprocation in waves or friendly gestures. When towing a caravan, I almost always receive a wave, but when driving a camper-trailer or a 4WD without the caravan, the acknowledgment from fellow caravaners noticeably diminishes.
A simple wave can go a long way and can become second nature once you start. I learned this gesture from my father, who used to say, “In Australia, it’s customary to acknowledge passersby on the road.” Such courtesy not only brightens someone’s day but also fosters a sense of camaraderie. So, next time you encounter oncoming traffic on that remote highway, extend a wave with your right hand; you might just lift their spirits.
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