20 • Section 2 — Driving & Safety Cayman 2006
Driving Tips
The motorhome is a complex vehicle that requires increased driving awareness because of its size and
various components. Due to the motorhome length the turning radius will be much wider than that of a
standard automobile. Always pay close attention to the perimeter of the motorhome: front, sides, rear, roof and
undercarriage. Ensure the surrounding area is clear of obstacles. Utilize the driving mirrors to observe traffi c
conditions as well as the motorhome exterior: tires, bay doors, blind spots, etc. Use a push-pull method of steering
with both hands parallel on the steering wheel. The motorhome is also heavier than an automobile with a higher
center of gravity. These factors affect the reaction time of the motorhome. Swerves and sharp turns, especially
performed at high speeds, could result in loss of control of the motorhome. Keep the size of the motorhome in
mind and drive with extra caution to avoid situations which might require quick momentum changes. Increase
reaction time by paying attention to traffi c and road conditions 12 to 15 seconds ahead of the motorhome’s position.
The motorhome will travel safely and comfortably at highway speed limits; however, it takes more time to
reach highway speed. Allow extra time and space when passing another vehicle to complete the pass due to the
added length of the motorhome.
Manually shift the transmission to a lower gear to descend a long hill, and begin
the decent at a slow speed. DO NOT allow the motorhome to gain momentum before
trying to slow down. Use the exhaust or engine brake in conjunction with the service
brakes to help maintain a safe slow speed of decent. The transmission and engine will
help control downhill speed and can extend the service life of the brake lining. The
distance required to stop the motorhome is greater than an automobile. The brakes are
designed for the (GVWR) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. Practice stopping away from
traffi c to get the feel of distance required to stop the motorhome.
When backing up, have the co-pilot stand at the roadside rear corner so the co-pilot remains visible in the
roadside mirror. The co-pilot can watch for obstacles and give hand signals during the backing up process.
Make sure bridges being crossed can support the weight of the motorhome. Check the tonnage limit of the
bridges before crossing. Signs should be posted at bridge entrances. Check the posted height of all overpasses or
situations where overhead clearance is limited. Keep in mind that road surfaces may be repaved or packed with
snow; therefore, the actual posted clearance height would not apply in such conditions.
Driving Cautions:
• Avoid getting too close to the edge of the road. A soft shoulder may not support the weight of the
motorhome.
• Side spacing is best maintained by keeping the motorhome centered in the driving lane.
• Driving lanes in work zones can be uneven, congested and narrower than usual.
• Be cautious of road debris which can damage the undercarriage of the motorhome or become lodged in the
dual tires causing damage to the tires, wheel rims or tow car.
• Keep in consideration that posted speed signs are passenger automobile rated. Therefore, an extra
awareness of the driving conditions and appropriate speed for a motorhome are necessary, especially on
corners and mountain roads.
• Downgrade speed should be at least 5 mph less than upgrade speed, or downgrade speed should be
attainable within three seconds of a brake application.
• Use a four second rule when following other vehicles at speeds under 40 mph, and a fi ve second rule when
following at speeds over 40 mph.
downhill.eps
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