Top 5 RV Driving Dangers

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Wind

Have you ever tried to carry a sheet of plywood on a windy day? Try carrying eight of them stacked side by side down the highway at 65 mph. This is what your RV has to do. Wind gusts can be particularly dangerous because you cannot predict them. A gust may push you into the neighboring lane or even into the ditch if there is no shoulder on the road. The best way to avoid the problem is to not drive when wind speeds are high. If you must drive then keep it slow, your speed plus the wind speed can be deadly.

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Low Underpasses

Know the height of your RV and give a little extra. The last thing you need is to rip the AC off the top of your rv before you even get to camp. Truck driving apps and some gps units will often give information about underpass height.

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Wildlife 

The creatures of the woods are adept at camouflaging themselves to blend in. This can be disastrous for an RVer. Scan the roadside as you drive for wildlife and avoid driving at dusk and dawn when animals are most active.

 
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Wide Loads

Although not extremely dangerous, wide loads can present challenges on narrow highways. Slow right down and pull over as far as is safe until they have passed you.

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Tire Blowouts

This is a big fear for many RVers. The best way to avoid them is to purchase quality tires and keep them inflated to the appropriate pressure. Avoiding potholes will also extend the life of your tires. Unfortunately we have to be wary of other peoples blowouts too. American highways are littered with millions of pieces of blown out tires. Usually these get pushed to the side but be aware that one may be right in front of you at any time.

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Fatigue and Hunger

Okay, so this is the sixth driving hazard, but probably the most important. When we are tired or hungry we make poor decisions. The best way to avoid the consequences is to stop early and eat often. One day in southern California we should have heeded this advice, our video below is proof.