Police in the Mildura and Swan Hill region will be targeting dangerous towing behaviour as part of a road safety operation this week.
Operation Nomad will see police highly visible and enforcing, with a focus on vehicles towing caravans and trailers in the region.
The operation will see police proactively engaging with motorists to educate on vehicle loading and towing requirements.
Police will be focusing on major arterials such as the Murray Valley Highway and Calder Highway.
There will also be widespread alcohol and drug testing as part of the operation.
Motorists travelling in the region are being advised to familiarise themselves with the requirements for towing a caravan or trailer, as well as ensuring it is registered and in a roadworthy condition.
Caravans and trailers are required to adhere to strict weight limits and must not exceed length and rear overhang limits.
Penalties for drivers in breach of mass limit range from $296 to $1976, while the penalties for a driver breaching width, length and height limit or load restraint requirements range from $296 to $790.
The penalty for owning or using an unregistered trailer that is not a heavy vehicle ranges from $198 to $1778 for a trailer with three or more axles.
Other penalties relating to using trailers include driving a motor vehicle with a person in an attached trailer, and learner and probationary drivers towing a trailer. All incur a $395 penalty.
Safe towing tips for caravans and trailers include:
• Towing decreases acceleration and braking ability, so avoid sudden braking, acceleration and steering. Slow down when making turns and avoid making sharp turns if possible.
• Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front, and when turning into traffic, overtaking or changing lanes.
• Keep left to give overtaking vehicles room to pass.
• The risk of swaying with a caravan or trailer increases with higher speeds, so obey the speed limits.
• Reversing with a caravan/trailer can be difficult, so where possible park in places you can drive forward.
• Drive carefully in poor conditions and high winds, as swaying can increase in these conditions or when passing other larger / heavy vehicles.
Quotes attributable to Swan Hill Highway Patrol Senior Constable, David Healey:
"Unfortunately, we see caravans and trailers involved in serious collisions and rollovers.
"While weight can be a contributing factor, more often than not people lack the knowledge and skill for safe towing.
"We're coming into a period of the year where caravanning and towing becomes more prevalent, and we'd certainly rather prevent these collisions than respond to a collision that could have been avoided.
"Operation Nomad is an opportunity to educate and generate discussions around safe towing and road safety more broadly, and we hope drivers will be self-motivated to prioritise safety and compliance.
"For those who choose to be blatantly ignore the rules and put other road users at risk, we won't hesitate to enforce the law."
