IRISH motorists are being warned they could face a €2,500 fine for not towing their trailers properly.
Hundreds of holidaymakers will be hitting the road with their caravans this summer.
And the Road Safety Authority has urged motorists to ensure that all trailers comply with the Irish Road Traffic Regulations.
All caravans need to undergo safety checks to test whether they are roadworthy before heading out on long journeys.
Your local mechanics or testing centres can carry out the checks and identify issues with tyres, brakes and other components that could lead to issues on the road.
Drivers are also urged to ensure that all windows and mirrors are clean, properly adjusted and in good condition to have a good view of the rear.
They warned that only drivers who have a category B or BE licence can tow the trailer, which means that a B driving licence can drive a car, van or 4 X4 with a small trailer that is no greater than 750kg.
All unbraked light trailers must not exceed 750kg in weight and the maximum authorised mass is the weight of the trailer including its load.
For example, the maximum permissible weight of the trailer is 750kg and the unladen weight of the trailer is 110kg – the maximum load weight which can be carried would be 640kg.
If you were caught not complying with laden weight provisions, you could receive a court summons if stopped by a Gardaí and if convicted, you could face a fine of up to €2,500.
If also detected using a vehicle and trailer combination whose axles or weight exceed those specified by the vehicle or trailer manufacturer, you can face a penalty point and a €200 fine if paid within 28 days.
However, it will rise up to €300 if paid within the subsequent 28 days or three penalty points and a fine not exceeding €2,500 if convicted in court.
Drivers with caravans or trailers are also reminded they are not entitled to drive in the outside lane of a motorway as the maximum legal speed limit is 80km/h.
There’s an exception to this rule that applies if there are places where the speed limit is 80km/h or less, or there is a temporary obstruction, such as a road vehicle breakdown, forcing you into the outer lane.
On local roads, the speed limit for cars towing caravans is reduced to just 60km/h.
This is due to the roads typically being narrower and may have more bends, making it crucial to drive at a speed that allows for better control of the car and the caravan.
Local councils might also impose even lower speed limits on certain stretches of road, especially in areas with more pedestrians or complicated road layouts.
Penalties for breaking the speed limit of a caravan can be more severe than other motors due to the increased safety risks associated with towing.
If you are caught speeding by the Garda, they will issue you a fixed charge notice of €80 to paid within 28 days.
If this isn’t paid on time, the fine will increase to €120.
On top of that, those caught breaking the speeding limit will receive three penalty points, and if a driver has previous offences, they may even face a driving ban.
TIPS FOR TOWING A CARAVAN
If towing a caravan this summer the following tips may be helpful:
- Make sure your side mirrors allow you to see down both sides of your caravan. Attach extension mirrors where necessary.
- Make sure brakes and lights work correctly and that wheels, tyres, wheel bearings and the suspension are in good condition.
- Never allow passengers travel in the caravan when you are towing it. All passengers should always travel in the towing vehicle.
- Make sure you hitch the caravan to your car correctly ensuring safety breakaway cable is secured in place and in good condition. Packing up after your holiday can be stressful and it’s important that you don’t get distracted when hitching up your caravan.
- Drive at the right speed. The maximum legal speed limit for a vehicle towing a caravan is 80km/h.
- At some point you are going to have to reverse, which can be quite difficult. It’s a good idea to practice reversing your caravan before the trip.
- Your caravan will affect how your car performs and how well you can control it. In particular, towing a caravan increases the amount of fuel your car uses and decreases its ability to accelerate and brake. It is wise to practice towing a caravan on short trips before you attempt a long journey.
