You should always try to avoid driving at night when you hit the road for an RV camping trip as it can be dark and lead to impaired visibility. You’re more likely to be tired. All of these factors can result in a higher risk and more danger while driving. However, sometimes you can’t avoid driving at night. Maybe your chosen campsite is full, or you were delayed by the weather. No matter the reason, practicing safety precautions while driving your RV at night is critical.
KEEP AN EYE FOR ANIMALS
Many animals are nocturnal, like deer and raccoons, so it’s important to be vigilant when driving at night. If you’re going through forested or rural areas, wildlife may charge out into the road and get caught in your headlights. Slow down if you see a sign warning you of animals crossing the road.
If you do see an animal in your path, press down on the brakes instead of trying to swerve around it. Nobody wants to hit a deer, but it may be necessary to avoid your rig from running off the road or into oncoming traffic.
GET EXTRA LIGHTING
If you think you’ll be driving your camper at night often, it’s a good idea to make sure you can easily be seen by other drivers. LED bar lights placed on the side of your RV can be helpful as long as they don’t blind other drivers. However, they should not be used in fog. You can also install brighter headlights that will allow you to see more of the road ahead.
BE ALERT
This may seem like an obvious tip, but many of us have driven while yawning and rubbing our eyes. Sometimes you just need to make it home after a long day. However, driving tired is dangerous — especially with an RV. This is because your rig is heavier and more difficult to stop than a normal car. Driving while tired can make you more vulnerable to being in an accident since your reaction time may be impaired.
Do you have any questions about driving or towing an RV at night? Are you looking to buy a new rig for your next RV camping trip? Get in touch with us at S.C.A.T.T. Recreation in Roseville, CA. We welcome all our patrons visiting us from Rocklin and Citrus Heights.
