Driving Tips
Consider these tips and make your adventure enjoyable.
Reversing your caravan or trailer can be daunting, however the following tips will provide you with the knowledge and confidence required.
As the saying goes “practice makes perfect” and together with patience, concentration and the directions you receive from your navigator, the task will become easier.
The main action to remember is the steering works in the opposite way to normal driving. This means when reversing and you want the caravan or trailer to go to the left, turn the steering wheel to the right.
- Having a navigator is not essential but can be a great advantage.
- Ensure the driver and navigator agree on the same communication terminologies and hand actions to prevent frustration, arguments and accidents.
- Navigators must be aware that instructions need to be planned and quick responses are not possible. They are there to ensure the driver does not hit anything but the driver is responsible for the reversing and steering wheel actions.
- Consider using walkie talkies or similar to communicate as voices may not be heard over the engine and surrounding noises.
- Ensure your windows are down and the radio is off so you can hear any instructions (or shouts).
- Plan your reversing route and discuss with your navigator. Consider the environment i.e. low branches, taps, other campers.
- Mark where you want to end up by placing your wheel chocks or similar.
- You must be able to see your navigator who in turn can see the reversing route.
- If in doubt of what is behind you or you cannot see it clearly, get out and have a look.
- Use you towing mirrors to assist you in seeing the reverse path and your navigator.
- Practice in a quiet car park or road. It is recommended that both the driver and navigator take turns so they understand what is required of both roles.
- 4wd’s should engage in low range to prevent rapid movements.
- If the caravan or trailer goes of the intended direction, drive forward about one cars length and then reverse. Continuing to reverse will only make the situation worse.
- Don’t worry about the audience ……
Disclaimer
The staff at CCIA &MHIA have used their best endeavours to ensure that all the information provided is correct at the time of release andthat the information has been obtained from reliable sources. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or any outcomes as aresult of ause of this information. The information is provided for general guidance on industry issues only and should not be used as asubstitute for legal or other professional advice.
