#1...they rarely mess with anyone, especially caravans. Forget about it.
#2 see #1, seriously.
#3 Usually caravans are paid in full in advance. Some cheaper, less organised operators collect money at every stop. You can leave when ever you want but you might lose some money. Be sure to tell the wagonmaster you are bailing out so they don't spend everyone's time and money looking for you.
#4 Usually there is a wagonmaster and tailgunner on real caravans. Otherwise they do use handheld walkie talkies. You need to ask the caravan leader as to what systems/ channel they use while traveling.
