RV Safety Essentials To Make Your Road Trip as Safe as Possible
Jason Crosby
· 3 min read
Nothing conveys "road trip" quite like an
RV
. RVs have something for everyone, from solo adventurers to families taking their kids on vacation. Distinctly American, they provide both a source of freedom and comfort for their owners. RVs are fun, but practicing safety with them is necessary. From towing capacities to tire pressure, our RV safety guide will help you get on the road—and stay on the road!
Avoid this specific RV tire model
According to
Consumer Reports
, The Goodyear G159 has gained about as much infamy as one could expect from a tire. This tire has been used since the ‘90s but it has gained a reputation for causing highway crashes. The reason? A flaw in the tire’s design allegedly allows for overheating, causing the tread to separate. This can make the tires unstable at highway speeds.
After a quarter-century of highway accidents involving 95 unlucky people, the NHTSA began an investigation in 2017. The G159 hasn’t been recalled yet, and Goodyear disputes any need for a recall.
The same Consumer Reports story suggests that because of the recent surge in outdoor and camping activities, buyers who are shopping for RVs should be sure to check the tire model that their RV comes outfitted with.
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Essential safety tips
Tires
Even if you’re not outfitted with G159s, you’ll still need to inspect your tire pressure and tread. If you’re not sure what PSI (pounds per square inch) your tires should be at, consult your user manual or manufacturer’s website. If you didn’t buy your tires as a set, it’s good practice to replace them after 10 years.
Engine fluids
It’s really important to keep an eye on fluids for your vehicle. Driving with an RV in tow can be difficult (especially for the inexperienced). That, combined with weather conditions can make having low fluids especially dangerous. Be sure to check your: engine oil, transmission fluid, wiper fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and engine coolant fluids.
Exterior lights on your vehicle and RV
Ensure that your turn signals, hazard lights, and brake lights are all working properly. This helps you communicate safely with other drivers on the road.
Towing capacity
Towing capacity is the manufacturer’s way of letting you know the maximum weight your vehicle can tow behind it. Cars and crossover vehicles generally do not have the towing capacity required to pull an RV. Exceeding your vehicle’s towing capacity could ruin your engine and transmission, not to mention void your warranty and put lives at risk.
RVs are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining a level of comfort during your travels. However, they can be very dangerous if proper safety precautions aren’t met. Consult our RV safety tips before your next adventure to maximize your enjoyment on the open road!
