Motorists advised to take care if towing a caravan

Date: 30/7/2010

Motorists planning on towing a caravan are being advised to take care and follow simple steps to ensure a trouble-free journey.

Director of Traffic Management at the Highways Agency Simon Sheldon-Wilson said caravans and other towed vehicles can cause long delays for other drivers.

"Check your tyres, make sure that caravans and trailers are not overloaded and drive carefully and considerately at this busy time of year in the holiday season," he added.

According to the organisation, an overturned caravan recently caused a two-hour delay on the M5 near Bristol, as three of the four lanes had to be closed.

The Highways Agency noted individuals who are going to be towing a vehicle should maintain a steady speed, carry out maintenance inspections before setting off, be careful when reversing and make sure the load is secure.

Earlier this week, Chief Executive of GEM Motoring Assist David Williams suggested holidaymakers who are going to be travelling by car should carry out safety checks on their vehicles before they leave.

Posted by Sarah Bailey