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RV Driving Basics
Understanding the ride and handling characteristics of your RV is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip. Because these characteristics can vary unit to unit, always take the time to test drive your new RV to establish a comfort level. Because loading and weight distribution are critical elements in ride and handling, be sure you are following the recommended guidelines found in your owner's manuals. A short trip or "dry run" in your fully loaded RV is also recommended.
Motorhomes and Towables
Proper Speed
Under ideal road and weather conditions, your RV is designed to travel at legal highway speeds. Under less than ideal conditions, good common sense applies; operate your vehicle at a reduced speed. Please be a safe and sensible driver; never exceed posted legal speed limits.
Clearance
Be sure to read clearance height signs as you approach overpasses and drive-through windows. Also, be on the look out for over hanging tree branches or similar obstructions that can damage your vehicle's roof or roof mounted accessories. Your dealer can provide you with the clearance specifications for your unit.
Pulling Into Traffic
Be sure to allow for the extra length of your motorhome or tow vehicle/trailer combination when pulling into traffic. Double check for oncoming vehicles in all directions and signal before entering the traffic flow. Allow yourself enough time to accelerate slowly and smoothly.
Passing
Additional time and distance are required to pass safely when towing or driving an RV. Wait until the road is completely clear of oncoming traffic. Check your mirrors and always signal lane changes before passing other vehicles or returning to your original lane. Pass smoothly and avoid sudden maneuvers while passing.
Seatbelts
Help protect yourself and your family by ALWAYS wearing seatbelts. During travel, sit only in belted locations.
Grades
When climbing a steep grade, reduce your speed and shift the transmission to a lower gear. Be sure to practice good road manners and drive in the far right lane so drivers approaching from the rear can safely pass your RV. When you are traveling downhill, shift into a lower gear and reduce your speed to assist braking on long or steep downgrades. For rear diesel motorhome driving, light steady braking is best. If so equipped, use your exhaust brake as needed.
Backing
It is extremely important to practice backing in an empty parking lot before you hit the road if you have never backed a trailer or motorhome. Always back your RV slowly and station someone beside the unit to guide you.
Turning
Compensate for the length of your RV by pulling several feet ahead before turning. This will help you avoid hitting curbs or other obstructions.
Swaying or Fishtailing
If this happens while you ore towing a vehicle, accelerate slightly and then gradually slow down. If your unit still sways, and you are not driving in high winds, safely pull off the road and check the following:
Towables
- Height of equalizer hitch
- Distribution of cargo
- Tire pressure
- Tow vehicle front end alignment and suspension
Motorhomes
- Towing equipment
- Distribution of cargo
- Tire pressure
- Motorhome front end alignment and suspension
If you tow a vehicle with your motorhome that weighs more than 2500 pounds, it should have a braking system that is independent from your motorhome's braking system. Should you begin to sway or fishtail, apply your trailer brakes (or the brakes of the vehicle you are towing) first. This helps pull the tow vehicle straight.
Braking
Always allow a safe distance to stop and pay close attention to road conditions at all times. Make sure you compensate for adverse conditions.
Always refer to your owner's manual for complete information on proper driving and towing of your specific RV.
Remember safety first!
Always buckle your seat belts!
Have a safe and enjoyable trip!
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