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RoyBell's avatar
RoyBell
Explorer
Nov 11, 2015

How do you deal with jerks while towing?

Living in the Chicagoland vicinity, driving a vehicle is a challenge without a trailer. When towing with a travel trailer, it seems to bring the worst out of everyone.

No one likes being behind a trailer, but I have people constantly putting themselves and myself in dangerous situations. I can't figure out why, short of impatience and the fact that everyone seems to be self centered.

How does everyone deal with these jerks? I drive the speed limit or with the flow of traffic and hang out in the right lane the majority of the time. I am not poking along in the fast lane. I get people cutting me off left and right. They pass on the shoulder or merge/exit ramp to get around me (2-3 lane roads) **** near taking my bumper off because they don't want to be behind me, passing me and cutting over before it's safe. People getting in front of me then slowing down. People camping out next to my trailer or tv at speed. Etc etc.

It can really wear on you when taking longer trips. Does anyone have a secret stress relief or way to deal with these idiot drivers short of just shaking your head?

73 Replies

  • I haven't been to Chicago lately but I really don't encounter that bad of driving where I normally go. I generally run the speed limit and only get in the left lane to pass.
    From the rear my rig looks like a motorhome. But, the TC on the Duramax is a lot faster than most motorhomes. I do think it's funny when getting on the interstate someone behind me will immediately go to the left land thinking they will pass a "slow motorhome". I step on the skinny pedal and get up to speed real quick. They often fall back into line behind me.
  • I don't encounter a lot of jerks However I do leave lots of space between me a the car in front of me.
    For the most part I try not to impede traffic and travel the posted speed when conditions permit.
    Regardless of my speed I try to leave extra space in front of me. I try to never be in a situation where I have to slam on the brakes.
  • I have not had that type of experience often, thank God! Maybe that is why I avoid Chicago at all costs. :W

    If I get one of those jerks near me I just stay alert and be prepared as much as possible but continue to enjoy my ride. I do not let them get on my nerves.
    Barney