Useful Info - Driving

BEFORE DRIVING OFF AT ANY TIME

If you are a novice RV’er, it might be a good idea to draw up a check list to ensure that you have done all that is necessary to prepare your RV for your journey:

  • Have you checked the oil and water levels (including the transmission fluid and power steering)?
  • Is the windscreen washer bottle topped up?
  • Do your tyres have any defects?
  • Are the tyre pressures correct? Do NOT forget that these should be checked when the tyres are COLD!
  • Have you checked your lights are working correctly?
  • Are your mirrors clean and properly adjusted? They should be in such a position that you can see 1/3rd bodywork and 2/3rds road.
  • Check inside your RV and ensure that ALL drawers are in the locked position and that ALL cupboard doors are closed to prevent any loose items from falling out and causing damage to interior fittings or injury to passengers. Make sure that there are no loose items lying around that can cause harm to anyone should they move when travelling.
  • Is your Fridge set on the correct mode for travelling?
  • Have a walk around your RV and make sure that all that should be secured, is secured. E.g. the awning is locked into the travel position, Lockers secured etc.
  • Do NOT forget to disconnect your electricity cable.
  • Have you got all the equipment you require for where you are going to stay, e.g. Levelling blocks/wedges to ensure the correct working of your fridge?

Road Safety

Always remember the 2 second rule when travelling in dry road conditions, which will afford you sufficient time to react to the actions of other drivers. Remember that this should increase to 4 seconds in wet weather conditions.

When driving in wet or poor visibility conditions during daylight hours ALWAYS drive on dipped headlights. Remember the old saying ‘Your lights are not so that you can see, but so that you can be seen!’

NEVER drive with a full tank of fresh water, remember that in most cases your tank holds 50 gallons, which weighs in at 500lbs. This can cause overloading, instability and reduced economy.
Drain your waste tanks before leaving the campsite, if possible. This will prevent you from carrying extra weight and will help to improve your economy.

Crosswind Care
When you are driving your RV, be aware of crosswinds. These are caused by the wind blowing against the side of the RV. Sudden crosswinds may cause the RV, especially if it is over-loaded, to suddenly swerve into another lane. If you must drive in windy conditions, be sure to reduce your speed so you have enough time to react. Plan your route well ahead avoiding high roads and exposed bridges.