RAC is urging caravanners to brush-up on their skills before hitting the road, with a new survey revealing a lack of confidence when towing and reverse-parking their vehicles.
Nearly 600 Western Australians* participated in RAC’s Caravan and Camping Survey, with nearly a third admitting they aren’t confident reverse-parking their caravan or camper trailer, and 16 per cent feeling the same about towing their caravan or camper trailer.
RAC Insurance Claims Manager Glen Walker said the survey confirms there are novice caravanners on our roads.
“We’ve seen a huge increase in caravan insurance policies over the past 12 months as more Western Australians explore regional WA, and many are likely new to caravanning,” Mr Walker said.
“Fortunately, nearly all of our survey respondents knew the towing capacity of their vehicles but only 80 per cent were aware of the 100km/hr speed limit.
“Just over 20 per cent also admitted they hadn’t done any caravan-related training before getting behind the wheel.
“While it’s fantastic to see so many Western Australians hitting the road to experience regional WA and support local businesses, it’s important to remember that our roads are some of the most dangerous in the country.
“There are important considerations you need to make to keep yourself and others safe when towing a caravan, including allowing extra space to brake and turn, packing your vehicle correctly and allowing for cross-winds.”
RAC’s Safe Travels initiative offers free caravan training in Perth and Regional WA to help Western Australians explore our great State safely.
To make a booking or find out more information, please visit our website.
RAC’s caravan safety tips:
Before you leave:
- Service your tow vehicle and check your oil, radiator, suspension, tyre pressure and lights
- Clean your windows and mirrors, and fill your windscreen washer bottle
- Distribute weight evenly in your caravan — start by packing the heavy items first, low to the ground and ensure all items are securely fastened down
- Don’t overload — find out what your vehicle and towbar are capable of towing and do not exceed the towing capacity
- Double check to ensure your caravan is hitched correctly
- Plan your route so you know where you’re going and check for rest stops and petrol stations along the way
- Charge your phone and put it somewhere out of reach
On the road:
- Scan ahead as far as you can to identify hazards early and adjust your driving
- Allow extra distance for braking and leave at least 200m between your vehicle and other caravans on the road
- Drive to the conditions and do not exceed 100km/hr
- Challenge the need to overtake other drivers — if you’re behind a vehicle travelling at 90km/hr, you will need at least 1km of clear road in front of you to overtake them (as to not exceed the speed limit of 100km/hr)
- Allow extra space when turning corners
- If you need to stop in a hurry, always brake in a straight line
- Take regular breaks and stop for basic vehicle checks every 100kms
- Check your mirrors regularly to ensure you’re aware of what is happening behind you
- Stay alert for wildlife
- Be patient and enjoy the drive
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*Respondents who participated in this survey have all stayed in a caravan in WA in the past 12 months.
Media contact: Caitlin Barr, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
