Motor homes, campers and travel trailers are not difficult to drive and no special license is required. However, there are important guidelines to keep in mind that will make your RV trip safer and more enjoyable.
With proper attention to the differences in the size, height and weight of a motor home, you will find it fun and easy to take the wheel. A motor home is not difficult to drive; however, the vehicle is substantially wider, longer and heavier than an automobile or truck. The distinct differences between an RV and a passenger vehicle do call for special driving procedures.
Your motor home vacation can be the experience of a lifetime. Take the time to master the easy driving procedures and RV driving safety tips.
Adjust and use all rear view mirrors. As in any vehicle, before traveling, sit in the driver's seat and adjust all mirrors to make sure you have the best possible view of the road from all angles.
Allow more time and space while driving a motor home. Remember that it takes longer for larger vehicles to accelerate, slow down and stop. Therefore, do not follow too closely in traffic and always allow more time to brake, change lanes and enter busy highways.
The driver sits higher in a motor home. The drivers seating position is an advantage because you can see farther and react more quickly.
A motor home minimum height clearance is 11 feet. Be on alert to avoid hitting overhanging tree branches, carport roofs and low canopies over filling stations, motels, etc. Know the exact height of the RV you are driving.
Due to the length of the motor home, its turning radius is greater than a shorter vehicle. The front and rear wheels will track paths much farther apart than those of a car will. In addition, when driving from a flat surface up an incline or vice versa, the rear end will drag. Though the motor home is built to handle most of these types of situations with the built-in drag skids, driving very slowly will minimize the possibility of any damage. Avoid very steep inclines because will be held responsible for any damage that may occur.
A motor home driver is farther to the left of the center of the vehicle. The far left position causes most drivers to drive too far to the right side of the road. Be aware of this and make the necessary adjustments.
Be aware that passing trucks create cross winds and air currents that buffet motor homes. Slow your driving speed when big trucks pass. Anticipate the wind effects and compensate for them.
When backing up a motor home, use the mirrors and have someone watch out the back window. In close quarters, have someone give you directions from outside the vehicle, while you view things through a side mirror. If another person is not available, the driver should get out and inspect the area behind the vehicle. By evaluating the situation before backing up, you can avoid surprises and accidents.
Buckle Up It is the Law!
When you are driving a motor home, make every trip a safe one by buckling up your safety belt and making sure passengers are also secure. Wearing a safety belt is the single most effective thing you can do to prevent serious injury and death in a traffic accident, according to the National Safety Belt Coalition. Besides, wearing seat belts is the law.
