COVER YOUR CARAVAN FOR A STRESS-FREE TRIP
For all those planning holidays and long weekend trips in the UK this summer with a caravan in tow, make sure you have one simple policy, covering both the caravan and car, in case of a breakdown.
With GEM Motoring Assist, voted number one in the Auto Express Driver Power Survey for Breakdown Cover in 2011, 2010 and 2008, you are guaranteed peace of mind when it comes to covering the caravan or trailer you’re towing. As all GEM’s polices cover any vehicle, which includes motor caravans*, there’s no need to take out an additional policy.
Even if you’re safe in the knowledge that you have reliable and affordable breakdown cover with GEM, the company urges motorists to be vigilant and follow some simple towing safety tips to help you avoid trouble.
Top tips for towing:
1. When towing, you are restricted to a maximum speed of 50mph on single carriageway roads and 60mph on dual carriageways and motorways, provided no lower limit is in force.
2. Remember, it will take longer to stop, accelerate and turn when towing a caravan than when driving a vehicle on its own.
3. Always allow for the extra length and width of your vehicle and trailer when taking corners or manoeuvring in a confined space.
4. When reversing into a space, turn the steering wheel the opposite way to normal, to start slowly turning the trailer, then gently slacken off and turn the normal way to enable the car to follow the trailer. If things go wrong, be ready to stop, drive forward and start the reversing process over again.
5. Avoid snaking by ensuring even loading and correct nose weight. Be wary of strong side winds or the slipstream from passing lorries.
6. Consider a stabiliser. These reduce snaking by increasing the turning friction between the towing vehicle and the trailer.
