Caravans high on hit list

Claims data collected by NRMA Insurance in NSW, Queensland and the ACT over the last three years, shows that collisions make up the largest percentage of caravan claims at 41 per cent, followed by awning damage at 30 per cent, storm at 28 per cent and hail damage at 17 per cent.

“Our experience tells us while not all caravan mishaps are preventable, there are many things holiday makers can do to avoid them,” said NRMA Insurance spokesperson Robert McDonald.

“Drivers need to be very careful when reversing or parking caravans. Some of the most common collisions include bumping and scraping the caravan as it’s wider than most cars.”

Jack-knifing the caravan is another common cause of claims, also damaging the towing vehicle.

NRMA Insurance has been insuring caravan owners for more than 30 years, and offers multi-policy discounts and an agreed value option with its caravan cover.

The insurer also offered the following tips to stay safe this summer:

• Get a mechanical check on the towing vehicle, especially the brakes and tyres

• Inspect the caravan for roadworthiness before you set out – especially the tyres and rims

• Check your caravan’s lights, indicators, hitch and security chain before you set off each day

• Check the tread and inflation of all tyres including the spare

• Ensure the wheel bearings are sound, well greased and free of rust or damage

• Practise reversing in a vacant car park, turning the vehicle left to point the caravan right and turning right to point left

• Leave an extra 20 metres stopping distance between you and the next vehicle

• Travel at a lower speed and use a low gear travelling down hills

• Remember to retract awnings during storms and when towing the caravan.