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Many RVers not comfortable behind the wheel The survey of 2,500 Americans gauged RV owner fluency with vehicle operation, safety issues and driving acumen, including a series of questions derived from various states Department of Motor Vehicles drivers tests or both standard and oversized vehicle tests. The survey also probed participants on their comfort levels on operating and maintaining their vehicles. On average, 33% of RVers failed to correctly answer questions derived from standard drivers tests. Nearly half (44%) answered a series of questions derived from the oversized vehicle driver's license test questions incorrectly. Of particular note: •Driving conditions: Half of RVers (52%) incorrectly stated that roads are most slippery during heavy rain. While roads are slippery during a heavy storm, they are most slippery at the beginning of a storm, especially after a dry spell, an important distinction when operating an oversized vehicle. In addition, 50% indicated that they were not comfortable driving in rain or inclement conditions. •Safe passing: One-in-three surveyed (35.3%) incorrectly stated that when passing an oversized vehicle, "it is best to pass slowly on the left." The correct answer is "it best to pass quickly on the left." •Tire safety: One-in-ten RVers (10.9%) incorrectly indicated one "should let air out of hot tires so the pressure goes back to normal." According to GMAC Insurance, the most common RV insurance claims are attributed to tire-related accidents. •Cornering: One-in-three (36%) surveyed indicated they were not very comfortable turning corners. Compared to an automobile, RV drivers must compensate for the extra height and length when cornering. •Backing up/parking: One-in-four (27.5%) are not comfortable with backing up or parking. •Driving in crowded areas: 31% of those surveyed are uncomfortable driving in urban areas, yet 12% (equivalent to 840,000 RVers) say they plan to use their RVs to attend sporting events this year, presumably requiring them to drive in crowded locations. •Vehicle height: One of the most common RV accidents involves striking overhangs, bridges and other overhead obstructions. One-in-four surveyed (24%) revealed they are not comfortable negotiating low-hanging obstructions. •Propane safety: 64% of those surveyed are not "extremely" comfortable with propane tank operation and care. Correct propane tank operation and care are critical check points in safe RVing, as leaks in the system can create a dangerous situation. Propane tanks that are left on while traveling or refueling pose a fire hazard. What's more disconcerting is the painting of propane tanks a common practice by sports fans in an effort to match home-town colors. Dark colors more readily absorb the sun's rays and may cause the tank to overheat and explode. •Highway driving: 85% of those surveyed are "extremely" comfortable driving on the freeway. •Good conscience: 70% of those surveyed agree that the right thing to do if you hit a parked car is to leave a note. •Big rig distancing: 90% of those surveyed indicated you need to leave more than two seconds between you and the vehicle ahead. Three-in-five incorrectly disagreed that if you are being tailgated you should signal to the driver when it is safe to pass you. And 68% of those surveyed were right in saying that you do not need to wait for a signal from another driver when you want to overtake and pass another vehicle. •Trip preparation: Four-in-five (80%) of those surveyed said they are extremely comfortable conducting pre-travel safety checks. This includes system checks such as retracting awnings and doors, tow bar and brakes. |
