Sharing the Road

Showing common sense and courtesy towards to fellow drivers combined with observance of the road rules will make each journey and the roads safer for everyone.

While the road rules may vary across Australia, the Sharing the Road guidelines are aimed at keeping everyone safe.

These guidelines are all straightforward; mostly common sense and courtesy towards others.

Please take the time to download and read the accompanying PDF documents.

Sharing the Road

  • Remember that you are now in control of a larger and heavier vehicle. Towing a caravan requires significant handling skills, constant vigilance and spatial awareness.
  • Know and follow all the road rules.
  • Install quality towing mirrors that ensure that you can see the full length of the side of your caravan.
  • Continually check your towing mirrors to ensure you’re not holding up other vehicles - for safety, as well as courtesy. It is considered polite to pull over and allow others to pass.
  • Use your indicators appropriately, giving ample warning of your intentions.
  • When traveling with another van or in a group, leave a 200 metre gap between vehicles.
  • Install a UHF radio and tune to channel 40. You will be able to hear the truck drivers and can monitor road conditions from their conversations.
  • Respect, assist and treat other road users including truckies, as you would like to be treated. Remember truckies are working and often on a time limit whereas you are more likely enjoying the drive.
  • Truck Parking Bays are for Truckies.  They were not meant for free over-night stops for caravans or RVs.  Please consider the working driver.
  • By remaining in the far-left lane whenever possible, you will convey a message that you are a courteous driver.
  • On gravel or narrow roads pull off slightly to allow other traffic to pass.
  • When approaching on-coming semis or road trains, on gravel or narrow roads, pull right off the road and pull up. This gives the truckie a clear run so he can stay on the bitumen to prevent being showered by stones and dust.
  • Large road trains, up to 53 metres in length and travelling at 100 kilometres per hour, may be encountered in parts of rural Australia. It is highly recommended that when travelling these roads to have at least a 5 minute gap between following vehicles to allow safe overtaking.
  • Be aware of wide loads and other hazards that may be encountered.
  • Acknowledge other caravanners and RV drivers as you pass on the highway. We’re a loud and proud community, and a friendly nod on the road is always acceptable.