Getting behind the wheel of an RV for the first time can be exciting. But handling a larger vehicle also requires a change of mindset for how you drive. If you don’t drive defensively, you may end up in need of heavy-duty towing later on. Fortunately, by following a few defensive driving tips, you can hit the road with confidence.

How to Drive Defensively in an RV

1. Increase Your Follow Time

The larger size of a motorhome means that acceleration and braking take much longer than in other vehicles. To better account for changing road conditions, you should maintain a following distance behind other cars greater than the “two to three seconds” standard others use. Instead, follow at a distance of one second for every 10 feet of your RV’s length, and add an extra second when going above 40 mph.

2. Know How to Handle Hills

Trouble with hills often results in heavy-duty towing for RVs. Protect your vehicle from overheating by slowing down and changing to a lower gear when going uphill. Pull over if the temperature gauge starts to rise. When going down, reduce speed and stay in a lower gear to avoid overworking your brakes. A good rule of thumb is to try to maintain similar speeds as semi-truck drivers.

3. Exercise Caution During Turns

The larger size of your RV can increase blind spots. RVs also experience “tail swing,” in which the vehicle’s rear swings out during a turn. As such, RVs require extra space when making any turn. Always double check mirrors before changing lanes or making a turn. Give yourself extra room for these maneuvers to avoid an accident that would require heavy-duty towing.

If you find yourself needing heavy-duty towing while driving through Cincinnati, OH, or the Tri-State Area, contact Buckeye Riverside Towing. This towing company is available 24/7 to help with any roadside emergency so you can get back on the road again. To learn more about their affordable towing service, visit them online, or call (513) 244-7200 to request assistance.