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Tips for Being Safe in Your RV

Dec. 10 2021 Safety By The RV Guys

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When you're out on the road in your RV, staying safe should always be the number one priority. RVs are quite a bit different than other vehicles, so even if you've been driving cars or trucks all your life, there still may be a few things about proper RV safety that you aren't aware of. Before you embark on your next RV trip, take the time to consider these important safety tips and precautions. For more information, stop by and see us at The RV Guys. We're located in Valley View, Texas, and we also serve North Texas.

Pre-Drive Safety Checks

It's always a good idea to conduct a pre-drive safety check every time you need to drive your RV for any significant distance. There are a handful of things you should always be checking for: 

  • Tow-bars and safety cables.
  • Signs of fluid leaks.
  • Oil, transmission fluid, and coolant levels.
  • Status of all brakes.
  • Tire inflation and tread.
  • Smoke and propane leak detectors.
  • Bay doors.

Additionally, it's a good idea to check the surrounding weather conditions and look for any nearby ground hazards. Once you know everything is in good condition and ready for safe operation, you'll have much greater peace of mind during your trip.

20 Percent Rule

Sometimes RV owners forget that their big vehicles take significantly longer to slow down and stop than a typical car or truck. To compensate for this, it's advised that when operating an RV, you give yourself 20 percent more time and space at all times. This means leaving 20 percent more room between you and other cars, and also starting the process of braking 20 percent earlier than you otherwise would.

Remember Your Vehicle Height

You would be surprised at how many people completely forget to consider the height of their RV when driving. If you get complacent about it, it's very easy to accidentally hit a bridge or an overhang, which will not only cause damage to your RV but will also impede traffic and be a major hassle. A good precaution is to write down your RV's clearance and put the note on your dash so that you never forget.

A few other good safety tips to remember are to always use your turning signals as early as possible, always take your turns very slowly and cautiously, and when trying to reverse or maneuver into a small or challenging space, have someone stand outside the vehicle and help guide you. For more information on anything RV-related, come see us at The RV Guys, located in Valley View, Texas and also serving North Texas.