RVs are not race cars. Just looking at them tells you that much, but many drivers still take things a little too fast.
An RV, whether it’s a large motorhome, a trailer, or a camper van, is larger than your average vehicle and takes time to slow down in the event of a stop sign or traffic light. But there are other times when slowing down are important for the safety of you and your RV.
Rain and high winds
The size and not-so-aerodynamic build of most RVs can make them have a propensity to be pushed around in bad windy weather. Add some rain and low visibility and you have a recipe for disaster. Slow down in bad weather. Better yet, wait it out or avoid traveling at all if you know weather is coming. For additional tips, read our sister article about driving in windy weather.
Construction
“Reduce speed.” That’s a common requirement when you’re going through construction zones, and in Michigan, there is always construction happening. When you enter a work zone, often the lanes get tighter, to the minimum width. For larger RVs this can mean only a few inches of clearance on either side. You want to make sure you get into the appropriate lane at the first sign of a lane shift due to construction. Don’t let traffic behind you push you to increase your speed, either.
Sunday drive
Sunday drives used to be commonplace; now, everyone seems to have someplace to go, fast. Take your time if you want to take a leisurely drive around the countryside. Choose times when there is likely to be lower traffic, and choose your route carefully if you’ll be driving or towing an RV. It might be a better idea to just take the tow vehicle or toad for such an occasion.
Pulling in/out
Make sure you have plenty of space to make your turn so that you won’t be rushing into traffic. Check both ways more than once to ensure there are no obstacles, people, or vehicles. At the campsite, keeping it slow is important for overall safety. There shouldn’t be a rush to get anywhere. Read more campground etiquette tips.
Pulling into a truck stop/gas station
When you need gas, find a station with enough vertical clearance for your RV’s roof, or you’ll suffer the consequences. A truck stop can be just the place to stop. Choose gas stations where it’s easy to get in and out, i.e., a circle without a tight turn or backing up required. If you need to make a quick stop at a gas station that is not RV friendly, park next door or across the road and walk to save your RV. And, of course, watch your turning radius. Go wider than you think or you could be scraping the side of your RV against a pole or building.
Slowing down can be the best decision you make when you’re driving your RV on the highway, around the campground, and in and out of parking lots. Taking it slow is both a safety measure and a preventative measure, both of your rig or trailer and for anyone riding along.