Your Safety First – Useful RV Driving Tips

With spring around the corner, the annual “spring break” RV trip planning, be safe with our RV driving tips. Whether you’re heading to Turner Falls or planning your getaway far from home, make the trip safely.

At Omega Insurance, we want you to travel safely too. Here are some great tips aimed at helping you get out there and back without a worry. As we all know nothing ruins an RV trip faster than trouble on the road.

Know Your Ride — Even if You’re Just Along for the Ride

Of course, knowing the features (and limitations) of your RV is the first step to safely drive it. Are you towing a car? Be mindful of how that will affect your stopping power and maneuverability. Know your vehicle dimensions. It is a must with parking and navigating through tight spots. Make sure you know that you can fit under the overpasses and bridges on your route.

And even if you’re just a passenger, it’s a good idea to learn how to drive the RV as well. You might need to take over in an emergency or other situation.

Maintenance, Maintenance, Maintenance

Like a car, keeping your RV well-maintained is extremely important. Are your tires in good shape and properly inflated? If you’re towing a car or boat, do you need extra braking power? Are your mirrors angled correctly? Is your safety equipment (for example, your fire extinguisher) in good working order? Save yourself from frustration down the road. Do a walk-around and conduct some quick checks before you leave.

RV Safety Down the Road!

Your RV is much bigger than a car, of course, and that means you need to act more carefully when you’re driving it.

Know your blind spots and use caution when changing lanes, merging or turning.
Be patient and aware at all times. Consider installing a rear camera. This helps give you a complete picture of your surroundings.
Prepare for aggressive drivers passing you on the road. Sometimes they will cut you off once they have passed. Prepare for these situations. Understand that many drivers don’t realize that you need more space in front of the RV.
Your vehicle is far heavier than others which causes it to pick up speed faster when going down hills. Keep an eye on that speedometer when going down steep inclines.

What about Parking Your RV?

It’s best to have someone to guide you into a parking spot. If you don’t have anyone with you, check out the area before you try to pull in.
Practice turns and backing up before you leave on your trip.
Of course, never park for the night in an area unless you have approval or know that it’s safe.

Need to Learn More?

Consider taking an RV driving safety course, if possible. At the very least, practice in a large parking lot before hitting the road. Take a little time learning how best to drive your RV. Improving your skills can have a big impact on you and your family!