With thousands of Brits expected to hit the road in campervans and caravans this summer, motorists are being warned to avoid common mistakes that could lead to hefty fines of up to £2,500, points on their licence, or even a driving ban.
Insurance comparison experts at Quotezone.co.uk have identified seven frequent motorhome and caravan towing errors that could invalidate insurance policies and result in serious safety risks.
Motorhomes and caravans are subject to a different set of rules to driving a standard car – including specific licence requirements, speed restrictions, and weight limits.
Towing also requires drivers to be aware of the unique laws that come with it, such as the need for EC-type approved tow bars, extended wing mirrors for wider loads, and correctly displayed number plates at the rear of the caravan.
Before setting off on summer adventures, Quotezone is urging motorists, especially those new to this type of holiday, to review the Highway Code, check they have the correct licence and insurance, and to ensure they fully understand the regulations that apply to their specific vehicle.
Lee Evans, insurance expert at Quotezone said: “Caravanning and motorhome holidays are becoming increasingly popular and are a great way to enjoy a UK staycation or a holiday abroad but aren’t always straightforward.
“For those new to this type of holiday or if you’re used to driving a car, it can be easy to overlook the different rules and responsibilities that come with driving a motorhome or towing a caravan.
“Preparation is key, and it’s essential that you brush up on your Highway Code and check you’re properly covered by your insurance before you set off.
“Making sure you’re following the law not only protects you from potential fines and penalty points, but helps make sure you have a safe and enjoyable holiday.”
Quotezone’s guide to the most expensive mistakes new caravan and motorhome drivers make:
Driving without the correct licence
Many drivers don’t realise that licence rules vary depending on when you passed your driving test. If you passed your test before 1 January 1997, it’s likely you automatically have Category C1, BE and C1E on your licence. This means you can drive motorhomes up to 7,500kg Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM), and tow most caravans with most cars up to a combined MAM of 8,250kg.*
If you passed your test on or after 1 January 1997 however, you’re limited to Category B which covers vehicles up to 3,500kg MAM. So to drive a motorhome over 3.5 tonnes, you would need to take a C1 driving test. Since December 2021, BE entitlement is automatic for those who passed on or after 1 January 1997 in England, Scotland and Wales, meaning you can now tow a trailer up to 3,500kg MAM with a car up to 3,500kg MAM, so 7,000kg max.
Incorrect tow bar
All tow bars used on vehicles registered after 1998 must be EC-type approved and suitable for your specific vehicle type. Frequent errors motorists often make are using a tow bar that isn’t EC-type approved or properly fitted to their car. An incorrect tow bar set up can lead to serious safety risks, legal issues, and vehicle damage. You can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for using a vehicle in a dangerous condition.*
Not using extended wing mirrors
Driving without extended wing mirrors if your caravan obscures your view is not only unsafe, but also illegal. You must have an adequate view of the road behind you and fit suitable towing mirrors if your trailer or caravan is wider than the rear of your car. Failing to do so can result in fines up to £1,000 and 3 penalty points.
Missing or non-compliant number plates
If you’re towing a caravan you must display the same number plate as the towing car. Some motorists forget to attach a number plate to the rear of a caravan, and wrongly remove the rear plate from their car and attach it to the caravan when towing. This is illegal, and non-compliant plates can lead to fines of up to £1,000 or potential insurance invalidation if involved in an accident while non-compliant.*
Exceeding driving limits
Another oversight is assuming speed limits follow the same rules as cars. But speed limits for motorhomes and towing caravans are different from standard car limits. For motorhomes, the speed limit depends on the vehicle’s weight. Motorhomes under 3.05 tonnes unladen weight have the same limits as cars. But for those over 3.05 tonnes, lower limits apply. These vehicles are limited to 50mph on single carriageways, and 60mph on dual carriageways.
When towing a caravan, the limits differ again. On single carriageways the limit is 50mph, while on dual carriageways and motorways the limit is 60mph. And you cannot use the right-hand lane when towing on the motorway.
Not checking height and width
Knowing the height and width of your motorhome or caravan is extremely important. Many drivers underestimate the size of their vehicle and end up hitting low bridges. While not only embarrassing, it could result in serious fines, legal action, and damage costs. If you’re planning on heading abroad this summer, knowing the exact size of your vehicle is important for accessing things like ferries and the Eurotunnel. Also be sure to check the unit of measurement in your chosen country, given these vary across Europe.
Overloaded vehicle
Exceeding weight limits can result in serious safety risks and affect steering, braking, and fuel efficiency. Drivers can often overlook the weight of personal belongings, accessories, and water tanks when it comes to motorhomes or caravans. The consequences of overloading your vehicle can put all road users at risk and result in fines of up to £300 and penalty points.
Quotezone.co.uk can help holidaymakers compare and find savings on caravan, motorhome and holiday home insurance.
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