Skills and Tips for Defensive Driving for RV Drivers

RV vehicles have become very popular due to their convenience, fun, and ease of use of these motor homes. Nonetheless, while an experienced driver would have no problems driving an RV, if you are accustomed to a smaller vehicle, it is beneficial to ensure that you are well schooled in defensive driving techniques. The following are some important skills and tips for defensive driving for RV drivers.

Given that RVs are taller and longer than your normal vehicle, you will need to get accustomed to clearance heights of bridges, canopies, service stations, among other obstacles. Additionally, check out the various codes and restrictions for your state and have them handy on your RV so as not to fall afoul of highway authorities. 

 

The RV being longer and heavier, turning and maneuvering are more challenging. With longer wheelbases and a high center of gravity, you need to be careful when driving. Take your corners slowly as the high center of gravity may cause the RV to tip over at high speeds. Stay in the middle of the road when taking turns to prevent the rear wheels coming off the road.

 

Braking a large car such as an RV is going to be harder than your regular vehicle. Given that the RV IS heavier than a small car, it will take longer to stop and hence you need to consider that fact when braking. You also have to remember that on steep gradients your engine will be more effective than your brakes. As such, it would be more effective to shift to the low gears and use the brakes sparingly for braking.

 

Weather Conditions

When driving in snow or ice, always remember to carry along trailer wheel and driver wheel chains. These are very effective at increasing the traction of your vehicle thus reducing skidding. If you happen to drive in windy conditions, try to drive slowly as much as possible. Crosswinds can blow your RV right off the road if you are driving too fast. If the winds are too strong, you are better off parking the vehicle on the side of the road and waiting it out.

 

Your driving will dependon how much weight or type of trailer you will be towing. If you are towing four wheelers, there will be less hitch weight as compared to towing a dolly. On the other hand, you need to avoid towing too much weight as this may negatively affect the handling and braking of the vehicle particularly on mountainous roads. Check your hitch, tow bar, and trailer to ensure you do not overload potentially causing accidents.

 

Since you are driving a heavier vehicle, you could get tired faster, hence the need to be not only well prepared but also be well rested. If you plan on driving long distances, you could break up your trip and take 15-30 minute rests every few hours. Such rests are critical since a large vehicle like an RV requires utmost concentration, which is impossible to maintain if you are tired.

 

Defensive driving for RV drivers is an important skill that you need to learn if you intend to take those long vacations in these delightful vehicles.