One in 10 UK caravan owners have admitted to a dangerous driving habit that could lead to a £2,500 fine, three points on their licence or even a driving ban, according to new research.
UK law states that it’s illegal to carry a passenger in a caravan while it’s being towed due to safety concerns as the additional weight can destabilise the caravan and could lead to accidents and serious injuries.
However, a survey of 508 touring caravan owners by Ripe Caravan Insurance found that 10 per cent have previously driven with a child in the caravan and 12 per cent have done so with an adult in the back.
UK law states that it’s illegal to carry a passenger in a caravan while it’s being towed due to safety concerns, as the additional weight will destabilise the caravan and could lead to accidents and serious injuries
The research also points to a lack of understanding amongst caravan owners as just 23 per cent of respondents were aware that carrying an adult while towing is illegal.
Meanwhile, only 11 per cent of caravanners realised they could be fined for carrying a child while towing.
John Woosey, Founder of Ripe Caravan Insurance, commented: ‘While it may be tempting to let passengers ride in your caravan while towing it on the road, it’s important to remember that caravans are not designed to be crash-proof, so the person is likely to suffer serious injury in the event of a collision.
‘Aside from the safety implications, a possible fine of £2,500, points and a driving ban is certainly not worth running the risk.
‘We strongly advise all caravanners to read up on the regulations before hitting the road, to avoid potentially ruining a well-deserved trip away,’
In addition to not carrying a passenger in a caravan while driving, there are several other important caravan towing laws that must be adhered to.
RAC road safety spokesperson Simon Williams told MailOnline: ‘Carrying passengers in a moving caravan is illegal for a very good reason – it’s incredibly dangerous.
‘Cars are fitted with all manner of safety equipment to keep occupants safe, not least seatbelts and airbags that can save someone’s life in the event of a collision.
‘Caravans, on the other hand, aren’t designed to withstand impacts leaving anyone in them at incredible risk should the worst happen.’
All drivers with a full UK licence can tow trailers with a maximum authorised mass of up to 3,500kg, a maximum width of 2.55 metres and a maximum length of 7 metres – not including the A-frame.
Caravan owners cannot exceed 50mph on single carriageways and 60mph on dual carriageways and must have an adequate view of the road behind you.
Trailers must also have a working brake system if it weighs over 750kg when loaded and any brakes must be in good working order.
