Caravanners shun towing courses

A UK study of more than 3000 adults has revealed that one in five 'towers'  have only taken up the pastime in the last six months.

The survey conducted by Nissan, found that four out of 10 of those questioned and who tow caravans, trailers or boats, admit that they have never had training on how to do so safely.

Nissan says the survey results raise concern about drivers' lack of knowledge on the towing capabilities of their vehicle. The results also point to the increased possibility of drivers buying and renting caravans their car doesn't have the sufficient power and torque to tow.

The survey also highlights the pressures ‘towers' face from other road users, with over 40 per cent admitting to having felt forced to take risks.

Almost a quarter said they have had to speed up after being tailgated, and more than one in 10 have had to brake heavily. A further one in 10 had to swerve due to other drivers' lack of consideration.

It wasn't all bad news though, with half of those respondents who tow saying they feel very confident and assured at the wheel.

There's also a willingness to improve with half of those surveyed indicating that they would welcome a refresher course or new tips on how to tow safely and with confidence.

In response to the survey findings Nissan has launched a complementary towing guide available at its UK dealerships, which among other things highlights common errors such as hitching overbearing loads.

UK buyers who purchase a Nissan X-Trail or Pathfinder between July 1 and September 30 will also be entitled to a free towing course, and the 375,000 members of UK-based The Caravan Club are being offered a 16 per cent discount on X-Trail and Pathfinder models.