Forum Discussion
trop-a-cal
Jan 17, 2014Explorer
First take it to a big parking lot that is empty. Then find out from a stop how many feet it takes to do a 180 turn. That could be anywhere from 36 feet to 50 feet. Then you know if it will turn on a roadway with lanes between 9 to 12 feet. Usually it takes about 4 lanes to turn 9 x 4 = 36, 12 x 4 = 48. Then remember you can't back up with a toad 4 down, as the tracking front wheels only follow the RV in forward motion. Then figure out how the rear overhang swings out when turning, as it will when leaving a fuel pump. As will the side go toward the pumps when turning toward them. You can pretend you are a one with the RV having a large tail that is behind you and a wide head in front of you. Having the mirrors set just right is important, as you need to see the side of the RV but just enough so you see the lanes on both sides when driving on a three lane one way highway like many interstates. You then can remember, that the RV will not accelerate as fast as cars do or stop as fast. You need to be 8 seconds behind any vehicle in front of you at 60 MPH. Do that by picking an object like a speed limit sign or exit sign and start counting when the vehicle in front meets it. If you get to 8 second before you are there you are OK. Then remember to travel at traffic speed or you will be passed on both sides and not be able to switch lanes easily. When changing lanes look, signal and move if clear. Always use through lanes as most exits and entrances are to the right so being in that lane is not good if someone is slowing to exit or entering into the right lane from an entrance ramp. Every time you switch lanes, remember you loose speed by doing so, so speed up to maintain traffic speed. Best rule is to travel during off peek hour traffic, especially in metropolitan areas. Know your exit numbers for fuel & other planned stops ahead of time as you may need to get into the exit lane miles before you get there. Remember most toll lanes have wide lanes to the far right. Most RV's are 8 foot plus mirrors wide and up to 14 foot high. Practice stops as sometimes you need to stop fast and you may find some items in the RV shift. Never assume you're OK to drive when tired, always plan stops to nap as needed even if just for an hour in a Rest stop. Use GPS , but don't get distracted by it, your first job is safety so eyes on the road.
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