Push for novice caravanners heading regional to refresh safety skills

Novice caravanners travelling in the South West are being urged to brush up on their skills before hitting the road, with a new survey revealing a lack of confidence when towing and reverse-parking their vehicles.

The new information comes as the State’s regional road toll sits at its highest in five years, with 67 people killed on regional roads this year so far.

The South West and Great Southern share the unenviable top spot of highest road fatalities by region at 18 road deaths each this year.

About 600 West Australians took part in RAC’s caravan and camping survey, with nearly a third admitting they were not confident reverse-parking their caravan or camper trailer, and 16 per cent feeling the same about towing their vehicle.

RAC insurance claims manager Glen Walker said the survey confirmed there were novice caravanners on the roads and he encouraged them to follow caravan safety tips.

“While it’s fantastic to see so many West Australians hitting the road to experience regional WA and support local businesses, it’s important to remember that our roads are some of the most dangerous in the country,” he said.

“There are important considerations you need to make to keep yourself and others safe when towing a caravan, including allowing extra space to brake and turn, packing your vehicle correctly and allowing for cross-winds.”