RAC is urging holidaymakers to take extra care on the roads, with new data revealing September last year was the worst month on record for crashes involving caravans.
Last year’s insurance claims show there were 87 caravan collisions in September — the worst month on record for RAC.
RAC Claims Manager Glen Walker said caravan collisions have also increased this year, as Western Australians continue to explore regional areas and holiday at home.
“In the first six months of the year, we’ve seen a more than 50 per cent increase in caravan collision claims compared to the same time last year,” Mr Walker said.
“Caravanning is an extremely rewarding way to travel, but it’s also very different to normal driving and can be dangerous if you’re inexperienced or don’t follow the laws and guidelines.
“Knowing and abiding by your vehicles towing capacity is absolutely critical — exceeding it is both unsafe and illegal.
“There are many other important considerations to keep yourself and other road users safe, including safety checks, connecting and loading your caravan correctly, and adjusting your driving style to accommodate the extra weight.”
A recent RAC survey found nearly a third of respondents had done little or no research or training before hitting the road with their caravan.
RAC’s Safe Travels initiative continues to provide free caravan safety training sessions in Perth and regional WA to help Western Australians explore our great State safely. Since it began last year, nearly 2,000 people have completed the free training course.
“Many Western Australians are chasing the warmer weather and heading north to places like Broome and Karijini with their caravans or camper trailers,” Mr Walker said.
“With school holidays also coming up, it’s never been more important to brush up on your skills and make sure you’re hitting the road safely.”
To book your spot in RAC’s free caravan safety training, please visit our website.
ENDS
Media contact: Mikayla Wearne, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
