Hi,

My husband has asked me to write this up for him....

I am a truckie and have been for 48 years, I now pull triple road trains north along the Stuart Highway and also doubles south to Adelaide.

Grams and I have a new Island Star "Opal" caravan in the driveway waiting for me to retire, hopefully next year, at 69. We have had caravans over the years ranging from Millards to Viscounts, to a later model in a Compass, all of them have been tandem axles. This Island Star is the first new van we have ever had.

The reason I am writing to you all is that something has got up my nose for a while now, but has got to more lately since the start of this lot of school holidays. All the vans I have had in the past I have used extended mirrors, old style that clamped on to your bonnet with mirrors either side, mirrors that clamp to your door, and now extended mirrors clamp onto your tugs side mirrors to extend the rear view...on both sides.

95% of the vans I have come across from behind or those that have passed me going the other way are just using their tugs mirrors to see behind them. The only way they can see me (in the truck) is when I pull out enough to let them see me. Don't for goodness sake rely on the rear camera at the back of the van (we have one of those too), because that is very misleading.

You should have extended mirrors so as you can see down "both" sides of your van and have a clear view of what may be behind you or trying to overtake. I have my mirrors like this, so I can see my van tyres in case of a flat or blow out.

UHF's are great for those who have got them, as when I approach from behind, I "always" call on the channel they have on the rear of the van. Most caravaners have 18/40 on the rear so we (truckies) can call them up. 

I always understood that having extended mirrors was the LAW!

I hope this gets across to the 95%,  the rest of the 5% that obey the law will understand.

Thanks

Poppy

Poppy has said in the 3 hrs going up north he found maybe 3 caravaners actually using extended mirrors each day. I am amazed that so many people don't use them, they are risking their lives and everyone else's.

I believe it's law as well, not that Iv'e gone @ asked just always run with the mirrors. Maybe a few traffic infringments might get the message accross

Grams wrote:

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Yes it is illegal to not have extended towing mirrors on your tug, if your caravan is wider than your tug. This applies to all states.

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 And most caravans are wider than the vehicles towing them!  Not too many narrow vans around these days!

No, Cloak, not a new invention, I think stupidity has been around a long time!!!!!!!

I can't imagine how the people without correct mirrors can reverse there caravan on site?

Never mind about seeing behind you on the highway., they must get the shock of there lives when a truck starts to pass them.

Ken

Maybe if you put these stickers on the back of your van, the dummies might get the right idea.

brickies wrote:

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I do use the proper towing mirrors but is a bit frighting when the B- Dobble sit rigth up your arse , I also drive trucks some truck drivers like caravan drivers need training on the right thing to do , like keeping a fair distane apart if this happen would be less incidents

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 Good Post.

There seems to be just as many brain dead  truckies  on the road (percentage wise ) as there are  other road users.    I work with quite a lot of truck drivers mostly B dub +  units.

Amongst them are the usual amount of  damn right hoons. Just as there are  in all other  parts of the driving community.   They drive  everything big and small like they are "King Of The Roads"   Poor driving skills,  Bad Driving Habits,   and they think everyone else  in their way.   

Hello People like so many of us that have driven those terrible things called trucks, I to have driven them, when I look in the mirror I don't see what is directly behind, trucks can have mirrors out so far only.

Now I got into a very heated discussion with another driver and caravan friend over this subject, spent days going though forums and most state rules and regs. Cousin turns up and has just finished at Traffic School, there is not a rule to cover it totally.

Rule goes like if the driver of a car view is blocked though mirror in the car he must have a mirror on the right hand side. Now this is not how it is written but it means the same.

I have a Land Rover towing my van I can see the wheels of the van and if you position a car at the back of my van say half out I can see it. For the most I notice other motorist approaching way before they get to me. I do have extended mirrors and use them.

It a bit like you can lead a horse to water but it may not want use it.

I tow a coromal with a ford territory

I don't use any extended mirrors

Im not required to as I can see clearly down both sides of my van with the standard mirrors

So just because you see a tug with out extended mirrors doesn't mean they are illegal

I also supplement my rear viewing with a camera

However what does get up my goat is people who disconnect their vans and then go sight seeing with extended mirrors still attached or extended

This is illegal and in my case on 2 occasions I have had to take evasive action with oncoming vehicles

Maximum allowed past the body of the car is 150mm unless towing

Speed limits

Most states and territories dont have specific references to trailer speeds in their regulations therefore for combinations under 4.5 tonnes the maximum permitted speed will be the posted limit. However Western Australia is slightly different in that it also specifies the posted limit, but for trailers with an Aggregate Trailer Mass of 750kg or greater, the maximum towing speed is limited to 100km/h.

There are a couple of other points to consider however. One is that you have an obligation to always tow at a safe speed, which depending on the combination and conditions, may be lower than the posted speed limit. Also some vehicle manufacturers specify a lower maximum speed when the trailer mass exceeds a certain level. Ultimately, it will be up to you to determine what is a safe and appropriate towing speed having regard to state law, the vehicle manufacturers specifications, the road conditions and vehicle stability and safety.

Remember that when towing, your vehicle is heavier and will be harder to start off, accelerate and stop, so you will need to drive accordingly.

Mandatory towing equipment

There is certain equipment that is mandatory for towing any trailer. This includes obvious things like tow bars and trailer wiring connectors. However, particularly where the trailer mass is approaching the upper limit of the vehicles specifications, its manufacturer may mandate certain additional equipment. Load levelling devices, high capacity tow bars, heavy-duty rear suspension and brake controllers are examples. Where specified, this equipment must be fitted.

Load distribution / levelling devices

Load distribution devices are used to return the tow vehicles attitude to as near level as possible once the trailer has been connected. They do this by transferring some of the weight imposed on the tow vehicles rear axle to the front axle, which amongst other things, benefits steering control and braking. They are available in a range of sizes and styles to suit the particular application.

However the vehicle and towbar must be strong enough to withstand the increased loads imposed by such systems. If the tow bar does not have provision for, or was not originally intended to have a load distribution device fitted, the advice of the towbar manufacturer should be sought before fitting one.

Some vehicle manufacturers specify load-levelling devices as a mandatory part of their towing package, however some specifically advise against their use due to towbar and vehicle design issues.

Load distribution systems are not intended to compensate for excessive ball or rear axle loads or to correct poor trailer loading.

Other levelling devices include height adjustable shock absorbers and original equipment self-levelling suspension systems. Before attempting to tow heavy loads with self-levelling suspension systems, or using weight distribution devices with them, the advice of the vehicles manufacturer should be sought.

About tow bars

Just because the car you bought came with a tow bar dont automatically assume that it is suitable for a caravan or other heavy trailer. Many tow bars are only intended to tow light trailers and will be totally unsuitable for heavy use.

Tow bars are available from a number of sources, but most commonly they are purchased from a specialist tow bar manufacturer or as original equipment from the vehicle manufacturers spare parts and accessories outlet.

When buying a tow bar there may appear to be a price benefit in buying non-genuine, but keep in mind that the vehicle manufacturers towing package is often more than just a tow bar. Such packages can often include things like body reinforcement, heavy-duty suspension and additional transmission oil coolers, all of which are designed to maximise safety and vehicle durability.

Another point often overlooked is the height of the vehicles tow bar in relation to the trailers draw bar. For best results the trailer should be slightly nose down. If it tows nose up", it may be unstable. Usually problems such as this can be corrected but it is work best left to a specialist in the field.

If the tow bar tongue or ball obscures the rear number plate, it must be removed from the tow bar when not in use.  For further information about tow bars see our Trailer and Tow vehicle specifications explained fact sheet.

Fifth wheel trailers

Fifth wheel caravans and horse floats are becoming increasingly popular due to their larger size and carrying capacity. They are designed to be towed by trucks and utilities that have the towing connection in the vehicles tray rather than at the back like a conventional tow bar. The regulations covering fifth wheel trailers are quite different to those for a conventional trailer and we therefore recommend that you seek advice from the manufacturer if you are considering the purchase of this type of trailer.

Safety chains

All States and Territories require the use of safety chains. Safety chains must be strong enough to hold the trailer should the trailer coupling accidentally disconnect, and comply with the appropriate Australian Standard. Trailers up to 2500 kg ATM are required to have one safety chain while trailers from 2,500kg to 3,500kg must be fitted with two safety chains. The D shackle used to connect the safety chain to the vehicles tow bar must have a load rating equivalent to that of the safety chain.

Trailer brakes

• Trailers up to and including 750kg GTM do not require brakes*
• Trailers not over 2,000kg GTM must have brakes that operate on at least one axle
• Override brakes are acceptable on trailers up to and including 2,000kg GTM
• Trailers over 2,000kg GTM are required to have brakes that apply automatically if the trailer becomes detached from the towing vehicle
• Trailers over 2,000kg GTM must have brakes on all wheels
• Brakes other than override systems must be able to be operated from the drivers seat

The cost and complexity of trailer brake systems will vary depending on the application, however where required, most light trailers will have either override or electric brakes. Electric brakes require the installation of a control unit in the tow vehicle.

* Note also that some vehicles have a low un-braked trailer weight limit and will therefore require brakes to be fitted to trailers that have GTM of less than 750kg.

Extended towing mirrors

Extended towing mirrors are required where the vehicles existing mirrors cannot provide a clear view past the caravan or trailer.

Extended towing mirrors

Extended towing mirrors are required where the vehicles existing mirrors cannot provide a clear view past the caravan or trailer.

Is this not the operative word - all very well to see down the sides of your van - but can you see past it as well ?  The question you should ask yourself I think.

In response to  Gaz"n"Roz, a very informative article.

Having gone through "The Australian National Road Rules of Australia"  www.ntc.gov.au Gazetted in 2009, there is a wealth of information for any one who wishes to delve into it all.  Amendments have been made as late as 2012, but I am of the opinion to refine the rules rather than change them.

Of Particular interest is Part 3. Speed limit Par. 21.  "Speed limits where a speed limit sign applies."

Pay particular attention to the speed limit of  all vehicles over 12 tonnes G.M.V. 

A wealth of information if you have the time to do the study.\

Have Fun Haji-Baba

 I tow using a set of Ora extender mirrors and a camera on the back of my caravan because although I can see down the side of the van with my tug mirrors, My frustration comes from big trucks coming the other way and the wind from their vehicle slamming my mirror into the window which can come as a shock, does anyone know of a solution to this problem I know I am not the only one experiencing this from discussions with other drivers.

Do not want to degrees from pops original post,but it is an offence to have bike racks and also the bikes obscuring number plates.

Regulations requires a number plate to not be obscured/defaced or other wise not legible/visable at a distance of 20 meters from it and with in all areas described by an arc 45" above top of number plate and forward of its edges.Number plates can be purchased to be attached to the bike rack.

Also other areas of concern are damaged/faded number plates/ even dirty plates / failing to remove tow ball /bike rack etc after use.

This could be seen as cearless action and unfafe driving.

Just a quick look at the fines for obscuring number plate is $110 and three demerit points.

Also if a bike rack or bikes obscurer any of the tail/brake lights  or blinkers it is an offence.

Maybe the police should be booking these people towing with out mirrors and that just might make them spend the $ to get them fitted and use,

Someone was telling me that if the police were not having a good day and pulled you over for the no towing mirrors ,they probable could put you off the road for being non compliant whilst towing.

Well said Copper one.

The law is the law,and for people to think they are above the laws of this land,just wait until they have an accident ,then they will wish they were not so un compliant. If you have an accident and do not have what is required to tow what you are towing then expect to be fined for breaking the law and almost the insurance companie you are insured with will just walk away from your claim leaving you to face the music.

Just to put another cat amongst pigons; unless it has been changed it was an offence to have a No plate obscured from vision, rear lights either not working/broken/missing etc. Now where is the difference between this & having these items obscured from vision due to these bike racks with numerious bikes attached,

The taillights are often completly covered by the wheels, especialy those mountain bikes with larger tryes. where is the difference in not able to see them as they are covered verses missing/not working, etc.

Back in work days we often had police in the shop inspecting wrecked/stolen cars, I have put this question to them several times.

Answers; never noticed, dont bother about it, dont go through the next town as the bloke there will nail you. What a joke'

You rear end them because you cant see their stop/indercator lights, your done for neg.

These people dont even think of their own saftey.

JC.

I took particular notice yesterday driving from Broken Hill to Yunta .

21 caravans ( wider than the tow vehicles ) passed us going in the opposite direction . 2 of them didn't

have towing mirrors . Idiots .

Whether it's law or not , there is a thing called " common sense " . Unfortunately not everybody has it .