Monarch SE 2004------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ S e ction 2 Driving & Safety | 33
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. Use a five second rule when following at speeds over 40
mph.
Right Turns:
Negotiating a right hand turn in a motorhome can be difficult. Many drivers fear
they cannot make the turn without entering into the other lane or jumping the curb.
Here are a few tips to make a right hand turn easier:
• As the turn approaches, look into the mirror to ensure
the lane to the left is clear, then move wide over to
the left.
• When you are about to make the turn; the left rear
wheel should touch the center line of the road and
your hips should be parallel to the roadside curb of
the corner being turned. This will aid in avoiding a
premature turn.
• Make the turn slowly.
• Check mirrors frequently, being aware of necessary
clearance and space management of the motorhome,
while negotiating the turn.
Left Turns:
• Do not start the turn until the center of the
intersection is reached with your hips. If there are two lanes available,
take the right hand lane. A car or driver on the left hand side is easier
seen.
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