With some practice, you can become a confident driver of your new RV. Whether you are thinking about purchasing a trailer and tow vehicle (or vice versa), or if you're new to the RVing lifestyle, here are a few tips to keep in mind about RV driving and towing:

Experienced automobile drivers already have the skills to drive a motorized RV. Automatic transmissions, power brakes and steering are practically standard equipment.

With proper attention to the differences in vehicle size, height and weight, you will find getting behind the wheel of the conversion van or motorhome fun. If your RV is a towable, don't fear - towing skills are also readily acquired.

Motorized RVs
Adjust and use all rear view mirrors. Before leaving on a trip, sit in the driver's seat and adjust all mirrors for optimal road views.

Account for your vehicle size when turning. The front and rear wheels will track paths much farther apart that those of a car.

Allow more time to brake, change lanes and enter a busy highway since bigger vehicles take more time to accelerate and slow down.

Towables
Match the proper tow vehicle to your RV. Most full- and mid-size family cars can pull a trailer, so can many mini vans, 4x4s and light-duty trucks. Check the owner's manual to find the trailer types that your vehicle can haul and the maximum load weight it can pull. Use the right trailer hitch and make sure it is hitched correctly.

Connect brakes and signal lights. Always check that the trailer's brakes, turn signals and tail lights are synchronized with those of the tow vehicle.

Back up with care. By placing your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel, the trailer will move in the direction you turn your hand. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Once the trailer is moving in the proper direction, avoid any sharp movements of the steering wheel. Slowly steer the vehicle into its desired direction. It is also a good idea to have someone outside the vehicle assist the driver in backing up to avoid any obstacles not seen in the mirrors. If another person is not available, the driver should inspect the area behind the vehicle. By evaluating the situation before backing, drivers can avoid surprises and accidents.

Whether you're driving a motorhome, van conversion or tow vehicle, make every trip a safer one by buckling up your safety belt and making sure passengers are secured, too. According to the National Safety Belt Coalition, wearing a safety belt is the single most effective thing you can do to prevent serious injury and death in a traffic accident,. Driving an RV doesn't have to be intimidating if you take the time to develop the necessary skills and concentrate on safety.

For More Info
A guide to RV safety, produced cooperatively by Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is available by writing: RVIA, Dept. AARP, P.O. Box 2999, Reston, VA 22090. Include $1.25 for postage. The guide includes basic instructions and tips that are useful to all drivers no matter what their age or driving experience.

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