7 Ways To Avoid Low Clearance Accidents
7 Ways To Avoid Low Clearance Accidents
Posted on November 21, 2021
Driving an RV can require a different skill set than a regular car, SUV, or even a truck. Most RVs have much more powerful engines to handle the extra size and weight, and RV drivers need to stay alert to maintain full control. However, perhaps the most major difference is that highways are generally designed for smaller vehicles, and in particular, you might find that bridges and other overhead features don't give enough headroom to let your RV pass safely underneath.
Thankfully, with a little care and attention it's entirely possible to keep the risk of low clearance accidents to a minimum, and here are seven ways of doing exactly that across the full range of Ontario highways and byways.
1) Find Out Your RV's Exact Height
The first step to avoiding low-clearance accidents is a simple and straightforward one that's nonetheless often overlooked. Before you get behind the wheel of your RV, make sure you know exactly how high it is, including the air conditioning outlets, solar panels, satellite dishes, and any other extra item on the roof. This simple step will go a long way toward knowing which routes are safely passable and which ones need to be avoided.
2) Use an RV Trip App
When planning your journey, use a route planner app that's specifically designed for RV drivers. Regular map software may show routes which are fine for an SUV but impractical for your larger RV.
3) Use RV-Oriented GPS
Similarly, if your RV doesn't contain GPS navigation already, be sure to use an app that has an option for RV drivers that'll ensure no low-clearance routes are recommended while driving.
4) Store Maps Offline
Also, you can't necessarily rely on your navigation software to function when you're deep into the wilderness. Once you've planned your route, download the maps or instructions so that you can refer to them even if you lose your connection.
5) Buy a Truckers' Atlas
Alternatively, take the old-school route by buying a road map or atlas designed for truckers. These will clearly mark out low-clearance obstacles so that you can avoid them and take another more accessible route.
6) Be Ready for Changes
However, even the most comprehensive route maps and the most advanced route planning software can be out of date. Still keep an eye open for height signage even after you've planned a route avoiding low-clearance roads, as it's impossible for any resource to be 100% accurate all the time.
7) Take Care with Trees
Lastly, not all low-clearance accidents are caused by bridges or low signage. Low-hanging tree branches can cause just as much damage to your RV as any other obstruction, so keep an eye out for overhead foliage whenever you're driving through wooded areas.
Visit the Premier RV Dealership in Ontario
Find your ideal RV or motorhome at The Hitch House, the premier RV dealer in Ontario. Whether you're looking for a small camper van for weekend adventures, or a luxury Class A RV for full-time living, our new and used inventories have the ideal matches for your needs.