South Australia is full of amazing and picturesque locations and what better way to truly immerse yourself than to enjoy it in a caravan or camper trailer.
Before setting out on your next caravanning adventure, consider the following:
- ascertain your towing vehicle’s towing capacity as well as the capacity of your towing apparatus
- all brake lights, indicators, clearance lights and taillights are in good working order
- tyres are in good condition and inflated to their correct pressure
- all cupboard and fridge doors are securely locked
- all gas cylinders are turned off
- the jockey wheel, entry steps and levelling jacks are wound up
- items stored in the caravan or camper trailer are evenly distributed
- safety chains are crossed and attached securely by “D” shackles rated for the Aggregate Trailer Mass
- split pins (also known as R pins) are in place and secure
- all mirrors (including extension mirrors) have a clear view of the road and traffic ahead, behind and to each side of the towing vehicle.
If using your caravan in the country, an efficient fire extinguisher that complies with the Fire and Emergency Services Regulations must be carried in the caravan.
It is important to understand the dynamics when overtaking or being overtaken, so you can help minimise your caravan swaying effects.
Keep an eye on your rear-view mirrors to know exactly when another vehicle may overtake. This will allow you to prepare for any sideways movement. Increasing the gap between you and the overtaking vehicle and moving over in your lane will also reduce the effects.
Easing off the accelerator so overtaking vehicles can pass quicker is not only courteous but safe. If you are travelling slower than other vehicles, consider pulling over and letting those vehicles pass.
The SA Police Road Safety Centre is a leader in road safety education, playing a vital role in reducing road trauma through enhancing the awareness, knowledge and skills of all road users through lifelong learning. For more information on our range of programs visit www.police.sa.gov.au/road-safety. To book a FREE road safety session email SAPOL.RoadSafetySection@police.sa.gov.au.
*Brought to you by the SA Police Road Safety Centre.