MySwag.org The Off-road Camper Trailer Forum
General => General Discussion => Topic started by: weeds on October 14, 2013, 09:33:05 PM
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I try as much as I can travel at the speed limit......on the flat no problems as I can belt along all day at 105, as soon as it gets hilly I'm flat to the boards and going backwards
If I come up behind somebody that's cruising at say 90km/hr I just sit back with enough space for others to leap frog me and than the one in front.....mainly cause I just ain't got enough up and go to get around quickly and safely.....if I'm held,up for ages than we just stop for a break and kick the footy
Plus I'm on holidays so no big rush
I read plenty of arguments that if you cannot do the speed limit than you shouldn't be towing......
Thoughts?? I am assuming most on would understand towing and touring but ya never know
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I like to sit on 90-95 when towing if I am not in a hurry.
The difference in fuel consumption on our recent trip by dropping 10 km/h hour was around $50 over the day - 850 k's. That is a huge difference to the hip pocket. Our big trip next year is going to be around 15000 k's, probably somewhere in the vicinity of $1000 difference over the trip. A no brainer really.
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Tow at whatever speed you please but if you're holding up traffic then let people past one way or another when safe.
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Tow at whatever speed you please but if you're holding up traffic then let people past one way or another when safe.
X 2. The limit is a maximum not a minimum. Drive safely at a speed that is comfortable for you and your vehicle, be considerate of other road users, and enjoy your trip!
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I read plenty of arguments that if you cannot do the speed limit than you shouldn't be towing......
Thoughts?? I am assuming most on would understand towing and touring but ya never know
I'm one of those people. I don't mind if someone is cruising in the 90's, in fact I have been known to plug along at 90 myself on occasion.
But people who sit on 80 or less are downright dangerous unless they pull over on a regular basis. If they pull over I don't see much of a problem, but many don't. From talking to these people over the radio some really don't care that they are holding up traffic and creating a dangerous situation. These are the people who should not be on the road.
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I'd driven many vehicles that are barely capable of doing 70 let alone 80 and the speed limit is way out of reach. But rather than hang back and wait for someone to pass you, let the guy behind see the road ahead as soon as he gets up to you and pull over and let him by at the first available opportunity. People who ignore upcoming traffic from behind really annoy me. If you are considerate to them, they won't loose their patience and then do something silly that could tangle you up with them. With my pop top I sit on abut 92 km/hr. I once passed a van in convoy chatting on the CB doing about 70 and he had no idea I was behind him until I was beside them. Road was straight and no oncoming so I just stuck to my speed all the way.
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i'm a firm beleiver in travel at whatever speed you like, just maintain the same speed when it comes an opportunity for people to overtake ie...don't speed up at overtaking lanes people >:( >:(
i myself tow at atleast the speed limit most of the time, nothing ****s me more then fools speeding up when you overtake them with a trailer on the back or having them suddenly speed up when the overtaking lane starts. if i get on a windy or steep road and see someone being held up behind me, i will try and move over somewhere to let them get past, it's just common curtisy IMHO.
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Buddy, I don't have this problem but Symon made some valid observations. Agreed the limit is a max not a min but 1 qualifier I would put to that is 1 lane roads in which case Symon's philosiphy comes into play: pull over when its safe if you cant keep up with the limit. We all need to be considerate of other road users and the limits of their individual set ups, but this works both ways ie patience with others tempered with consideration. In a perfect world we would all be towing with vehicles that can handle any slope etc but this aint the case, and in any event what one person considers safe and legal isnt always the same approach of the vehicle behind or in front of you. In all reality there is no right or wrong response to this, I have often pulled over for the "tailgater" behind who is in a hurry, only to pass them at the next servo while they fill up, get a pie or whatever.
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As a professional driver and a driving instructor within my industry we teach to drive to the conditions and within the vehicles capabilities. This to most of us with naturally aspirated tanks dragging an extra few kilo means we are rarely going to make the speed limit in open zones.
I do believe within speed restricted areas there should be no real reason to tow another 15- 20kph below, this does frustrate most.
When towing myself I will try and give those behind good vision and opportunities to pass. Having said that if they choose multiple times not to take it I will eventually give them no more opportunities.
And yes, speed up when I plan on going around you at an overtaking lane - you will get a nasty look! >:(
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Sometimes the speed is less important, like when you have three or four caravanners who are so afraid to be out on the road that they tailgate, giving faster vehicles no chance to leapfrog through the convoy. I know a guy who does some caravan training and I have mentioned this to him and he just rolls his eyes and shakes his head. Yes, he says, he tries to drum it in, but some people just don't get it. My son goes to geraldton each month on business and the caravanners on brand highway drive him mental. God knows what it is like for truck drivers who put up with it all the time.
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I try as much as I can travel at the speed limit......on the flat no problems as I can belt along all day at 105, as soon as it gets hilly I'm flat to the boards and going backwards
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I. Can only speak for WA but if you are towing your camper at 105 km/ hr then you are breaking the law
Don't know what the limit is in other states but max for trailers and caravans in WA is a MAX of 100 km/hr
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As others have said, if you have to tow at below the speed limit, be courteous and don't hog the road.
I also hate it when dimwits decide they don't want to be passed by a 4WD towing and speed up. Had that happen to me going up Cunninghams gap recently, idiot in a Prado decided he didn't want a Pajero passing him so he floored it as I came up to him. Luckily the Paj was already well underway and his dumb exercise didn't really impact me, but it could have ended up tears if I had to brake hard and pull back in. ???
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As others have said, if you have to tow at below the speed limit, be courteous and don't hog the road.
I also hate it when dimwits decide they don't want to be passed by a 4WD towing and speed up. Had that happen to me going up Cunninghams gap recently, idiot in a Prado decided he didn't want a Pajero passing him so he floored it as I came up to him. Luckily the Paj was already well underway and his dumb exercise didn't really impact me, but it could have ended up tears if I had to brake hard and pull back in. ???
I hear ya, happens ALL the time. People see a trailer under tow and decide they MUST get in front because you will be slow, for 200series diesel owners this is a moot point as we are generally able to keep up, if not set the pace even with said trailer on the back. Not trying to boast, merely agree. It's not dissimilar to the good old traffic light scenario where a single lane road splits into 2 for a set of lights and then has a merge straight after it. Designed for one thing: drag racing and queue jumping. The number of idiots that jump into the other lane just to go 0.0005 km/h faster mounts daily, what these people think they achieve is theirs to take to the grave and good on them, the rest of us just breathe in and forget it ( except for rants on myswag like this!!)
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Weeds. Mate. You need a TTD 200 Series! ;D. It'll do the speed limit, no worries.
Personally I think it all boils down to consideration. If a vehicle can't, or the driver doesn't want, to do the speed list assuming road & weather conditions are suitable, they should pull over and let the traffic past.
Unlike the old codger the other day on the Kennedy Hwy, doing 70 from Atherton to Mareeba. He was hunched over the wheel, probably sh!tting himself with a long line of traffic backed up behind. And Macy so frustrated that they overtook him on bends, and across double white lines. Others will plod until an overtaking lane appears, then speed up to stay "in front". >:(
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Weeds. Mate. You need a TTD 200 Series! ;D. It'll do the speed limit, no worries.
I somehow doubt Weeds will be changing to a Toyota any time soon ;)
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I. Can only speak for WA but if you are towing your camper at 105 km/ hr then you are breaking the law
Don't know what the limit is in other states but max for trailers and caravans in WA is a MAX of 100 km/hr
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is that only for braked trailers ? and for trailers not fitted with brakes 90km/hr ?
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In Vic, if you are twoing a trailer, braked or unbraked, the speed limit is 100 km/h even if you are in a 110 km/h zone. Whether it is enforced or not???
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In Vic, if you are twoing a trailer, braked or unbraked, the speed limit is 100 km/h even if you are in a 110 km/h zone. Whether it is enforced or not???
Really?
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I am in the same boat as you weeds. Our 105 will happily tow the CT at 100 Kms along flat roads but quickly pulls up on hills. I drive safely and pull over to let others pass when the opportunity is presented. Most people give me a wave of thanks when I do this.
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I. Can only speak for WA but if you are towing your camper at 105 km/ hr then you are breaking the law
Don't know what the limit is in other states but max for trailers and caravans in WA is a MAX of 100 km/hr
is that only for braked trailers ? and for trailers not fitted with brakes 90km/hr ?
In Vic, if you are twoing a trailer, braked or unbraked, the speed limit is 100 km/h even if you are in a 110 km/h zone. Whether it is enforced or not???
Three "opinions" on speed limits when towing. Any of you three care to quote some legislation to back up your claims? I thought Australia had uniform road rules.
KB
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Three "opinions" on speed limits when towing. Any of you three care to quote some legislation to back up your claims? I thought Australia had uniform road rules.
KB
Uniform road rules, if only that were true.
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Uniform road rules, if only that were true.
That's my understanding. Will check some legislation.
KB
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I. Can only speak for WA but if you are towing your camper at 105 km/ hr then you are breaking the law
Don't know what the limit is in other states but max for trailers and caravans in WA is a MAX of 100 km/hr
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105km/hr on the speedo.........which equats to 98/99km/hr on the GPS
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I think that if a driver or there rig cannot safely do 80 kph then they shouldn't be on the road. The closing speeds are much to high for safety under this not to mention the frustration of other drivers.
Leaving a gap in front is the most basic courtesy and should be compulsory if it's not already.
Why oh why do people speed up in passing lanes >:D
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I somehow doubt Weeds will be changing to a Toyota any time soon ;)
:cheers: :cheers:
i did briefly start looking at 76 series.......
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I know when I drove from NT to WA there was a sign that showed cars towing a trailer the speed was 100 and 110 for cars.
Not far down the road after passing this sign, I had a car towing a trailer pass me doing over the 100, but I came around the next corner and he was stopped with the police writing him out a ticket. ;D
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Did a couple of checks of legislation.
The Australian Road Rules say you can travel at whatever the sign says except if you are a bus with a GVM over 5T or another vehicle with a GVM over 12T then it is a max of 100kph.
Qld and NT road rules say the same.
WA says if towing a trailer it is a max of 100kph.
Got bored and didn't check the other states.
So much for me thinking there were uniform road rules. Would be an interesting one for an interstater to challenge in a WA court though.
KB
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i drive to the road conditions when towing
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Kingbilly I think you will find the Australian road rules from 2000 will refer mostly to such things as Give Way, controlled intersections, merging and overtaking. Each state then has its own legislation which governs speed limits, BAC, parking, vehicle modifications etc etc etc.
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According to these two articles, one from NSW Gov (http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/registration/downloads/2005_10_towingtrailers.pdf) web site and one from caravan world (http://www.caravanworld.com.au/latest-reviews/article/articleid/79178.aspx), indicates that for vehicles under 4.5t the speed limit is whatever is posted. For over 4.5tonne, it's 100km/hr.
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In Victoria you can tow at the posted speed limit :police:
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just thought i would ask the question........on another forum caravaners or anybody not travelling at the posted limit are copping a pasting
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Kingbilly I think you will find the Australian road rules from 2000 will refer mostly to such things as Give Way, controlled intersections, merging and overtaking. Each state then has its own legislation which governs speed limits, BAC, parking, vehicle modifications etc etc etc.
Whilst the Australian Road Rules have no legislative effect themselves, each of the states and territories have included these road rules in their own state leglistaion. And yes, the Aust Rules Rules cover speed limits. Whilst the rules were initially developed in1999, there have been several amendments, the latest being in July this year. Obviously WA has seen fit to include an additional rule restricting vehicles towing a trailer to a maximum of 100kph. As I said, it would be an intersting challenge in a court.
SA has adopted the Aust Road Rules.
KB
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I have just completed my Heavy Vehicle Drivers Knowledge test and any vehicle in NSW with a GVM over 4.5T is restricted to a maximum of 100Kph. Even got that question in the test and got it right!
Bunyip
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X 2. The limit is a maximum not a minimum. Drive safely at a speed that is comfortable for you and your vehicle, be considerate of other road users, and enjoy your trip!
Can't go wrong following this advice ;D
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I have just completed my Heavy Vehicle Drivers Knowledge test and any vehicle in NSW with a GVM over 4.5T is restricted to a maximum of 100Kph. Even got that question in the test and got it right!
I stand corrected. Looked up the wrong link. This is the correct link for NSW http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/viewtop/inforce/subordleg+179+2008+cd+0+N/?autoquery=(Content%3D((%22speed%20limit%22)))%20AND%20((Type%3D%22act%22%20AND%20Repealed%3D%22N%22)%20OR%20(Type%3D%22subordleg%22%20AND%20Repealed%3D%22N%22))%20AND%20(%22Historical%20Document%22%3D%220%22)&dq=Document%20Types%3D%22%3Cspan%20class%3D%22dq%22%3EActs%3C%2Fspan%3E,%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22dq%22%3ERegs%3C%2Fspan%3E%22,%20Exact%20Phrase%3D%22%3Cspan%20class%3D%22dq%22%3Espeed%20limit%3C%2Fspan%3E%22,%20Search%20In%3D%22%3Cspan%20class%3D%22dq%22%3EText%3C%2Fspan%3E%22&fullquery=(((%22speed%20limit%22)))
But, no mention of restricted speeds for towing a trailer as per the original discussion unless of course the combination of vehicle and trailer exceeds 4.5T.
KB
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Three "opinions" on speed limits when towing. Any of you three care to quote some legislation to back up your claims? I thought Australia had uniform road rules.
KB
King Billy,
You've hit to be joking! As much as I love Australia, we've got 8 states & territories who all think they know best. Whilst there are lots of similarities there are also lots of differences.
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i'm a firm beleiver in travel at whatever speed you like, just maintain the same speed when it comes an opportunity for people to overtake ie...don't speed up at overtaking lanes people >:( >:(
i myself tow at atleast the speed limit most of the time, nothing ****s me more then fools speeding up when you overtake them with a trailer on the back or having them suddenly speed up when the overtaking lane starts. if i get on a windy or steep road and see someone being held up behind me, i will try and move over somewhere to let them get past, it's just common curtisy IMHO.
My thoughts exactly!
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But, no mention of restricted speeds for towing a trailer as per the original discussion unless of course the combination of vehicle and trailer exceeds 4.5T.
KB
I reckon many of us would be surpisingly close to or even over that 4.5t mark.
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I reckon many of us would be surpisingly close to or even over that 4.5t mark.
Dead right, I've just thought about it for a second: cruiser at max load 3300kg, GS fully loaded 1550kg, hmmm the math is pretty straight forward. And its NEVER occurred to me to check interstate laws. I have to agree with KB's train of thought: there should be just one set of road rules/laws for Australia. It's not like we get stopped at a state border or anything. I really feel for transport drivers going interstate all the time. I think MarkGU does a bit of this sort of thing.
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If you save $50 a day towing at 90, think of your savings if you towed at 70!
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So much for me thinking there were uniform road rules
I thought you were taking the piss when you said that... :o
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Dead right, I've just thought about it for a second: cruiser at max load 3300kg, GS fully loaded 1550kg, hmmm the math is pretty straight forward. And its NEVER occurred to me to check interstate laws. I have to agree with KB's train of thought: there should be just one set of road rules/laws for Australia. It's not like we get stopped at a state border or anything. I really feel for transport drivers going interstate all the time. I think MarkGU does a bit of this sort of thing.
Are we talking GVM or GCM? A light vehicle is upto 4.5t GVM in Victoria.
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Dead right, I've just thought about it for a second: cruiser at max load 3300kg, GS fully loaded 1550kg, hmmm the math is pretty straight forward. And its NEVER occurred to me to check interstate laws. I have to agree with KB's train of thought: there should be just one set of road rules/laws for Australia. It's not like we get stopped at a state border or anything. I really feel for transport drivers going interstate all the time. I think MarkGU does a bit of this sort of thing.
Funny you say that NBD....
Being a trucky and on the management team for transport law in our business can tell you that the powers that be are slowly aligning laws between states, you'll notice the law in Queensland has introduced 4x4 regulations more inline with NSW (tire size, lift height etc) Trucks will also follow one set of rules Nationwide eventually but like any qov dep this stuff take years if not decades to finalize, they are the red tape kings after all.
Unfortunately Queensland is the state still in the dark ages when it comes down to it, this state is the one that needs to catch up, however don't tell them that, they think the rest of the world follows their transport model - self proclaimed "Smart State" funniest thing since NSW said they would win origin this year.
As for speed limits, you can actually get fined for going too slow - it's more about driving etiquette than a set minimum speed, like whats being discussed in this thread previously, as long as you yield to traffic you can comfortably sit on 80 in a 100 zone, if however you constantly drive below this (example only) say 60-70 in a 100 zone expect to get a ticket.
Like running an amber light it's at the enforcement officers discretion if you are issued a fine or a warning
Bare in mind driving 30% below the speed limit is considered dangerous driving and accidents DO happen because of it, I've seen it all too many times.
My2c
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As for speed limits, you can actually get fined for going too slow
while your are correct, you can imagine the outcry "I was driving safely for the conditions blah blah blah".
more chance of people being fined for not keeping left than too slow, and that hasnt happened in 500,000,000 years.
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agreed, I've not heard of it for awhile but it does happen - mate of mine got fined for it..... more for being inconsiderate but there is no fine for that.
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ie...don't speed up at overtaking lanes people >:( >:(
that is the killer for me.. Why do they do it? up to 130-150kph just to slow down to 80-90 after the lane closes out and then block everyone behind them for another 20 klms.
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You know I think I know why it happens......
People feel safer with more shoulder around them, 2 lanes gives you the mental feeling of space where as a single lane is almost confining - bet half of them dont even know they do it
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Tow at whatever speed you feel comfortable with - that is your right as a driver to keep everyone safe. Only you know how safe you feel!
But FFS - if you're traveling slower than the speed limit keep a good eye on what's going on behind you and let people pass wherever and whenever you can - that's courtesy and will be appreciated.
Even if you're traveling at or near the speed limit do the same. It's not up to you to slow someone else down who might be traveling over the limit - that's their problem!
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isnt it amazing the different forms of logic in this country.
one end realises that people can make their own decisions
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2013/10/15/326156_ntnews.html
while the other end is doing their best to take every cent off you they can
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/10/15/08/42/vic-launches-hidden-mobile-speed-traps
So much for "uniform" road rules.
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So much for "uniform" road rules.
The rules are pretty much uniform but I think their interpretation and enforcement are another matter entirely :D :D
KB
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The rules are pretty much uniform but I think their interpretation and enforcement are another matter entirely :D :D
KB
uniform....
(http://resources0.news.com.au/images/2008/04/09/1111116/010152-police-officers.jpg)
or
(http://thisisshangrila.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/sexy-police-woman.jpg)
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Oh Lost, you've done it again >:D
KB
PS Or is it just to help you crack the 10 big uns?
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wow interesting about the 100kmh when towing in WA - think I had better pay attention to the speedo - but would be interesting if an interstate driver is caught above that and contests it - i know when QLD wasn't mandatory to display P plates if you got caught without it in NSW and fined you could challenge it and get off as you are licenced under QLD laws.
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I'm at a loss to understand why anyone would think they could successfully contest the speed limit in WA just because it's different in other states. I have no doubt the magistrate hearing you plead your case, won't give a toss, in fact if the magistrate is a native of WA he'll just mumble about bloody easterners and fine you double! :-*
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I reckon many of us would be surpisingly close to or even over that 4.5t mark.
Like Crisp Image said, be careful not to mix up Gross Vehicle Mass (individual vehicle) and Gross Combined Mass (combined total of vehicle and trailers).
Having had to take two learners through 120 hours I can tell you that when on country roads I keep a watch of cars behind us (and get the learner too as well) and when there are a couple of cars, or a long time with no overtaking opportunities, I get them to pull over when it is safe.
As said driving too slowly can be jsut as dangerous as driving too fast, people get impatient quickly (LB will say i do this) and tend to do stupid things (I try not to do this, rather just rant and rave inside our vehicle).
Bunyip
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I think the question should be "Why do people feel the need to drive slower when towing than when not towing?" If it's because their tow vehicle isn't powerful enough to tow at normal road speeds then IMO they shouldn't be towing anyway - similarly if the trailer starts becoming unstable at higher speeds, or the front of the tow vehicle is so light that the steering loses control.
I tow my 1500kg trailer behind my 2.8CRD Jeep and the only time I am physically aware of it being there is going over the Toowoomba Ranges or Cunninghams Gap - and on both those roads I am less of a problem than the semis and B-doubles. Other than that I can motor along at the speed limit without a problem.
As regards fuel economy, last Christmas going down to Adelaide I did half the journey with the cruise set at 100 and the other half at 80, and the difference was about 2L/100 - say $3.50/100km on average. What sort of vehicle was saving $50/day???
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Learners in Victoria can sit on the speedlimit
Im fairly sure in NSW they have to stick to 80 Max - is that still the way? Also they arent allowed to tow a trailer ???
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Learners in Victoria can sit on the speedlimit
Im fairly sure in NSW they have to stick to 80 Max - is that still the way? Also they arent allowed to tow a trailer ???
Correct Lost, max 80 Kph and no trailers allowed.
Problem is once they get their P plates and can tow a trailer they know absolutely everything so will not listen to an old fart teaching them how to reverse etc..
Bunyip
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Correct Lost, max 80 Kph and no trailers allowed.
Problem is once they get their P plates and can tow a trailer they know absolutely everything so will not listen to an old fart teaching them how to reverse etc..
Ok, how does a learner from Victoria stand in NSW or vice versa?
Th sad part is kids are only taught how to pass their licence.. not how to drive. If you failed those that dont deserve to pass, they would drive anyway.
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Ok, how does a learner from Victoria stand in NSW or vice versa?
When in Rome, do as the Roman's do
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Another thought is the loophole that exists when moving states - if you only have your Autos in QLD you technically can drive a manual if you move and transfer your Licence to NT even if you don't have a clue.
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When in Rome, do as the Roman's do
missing the point... why is a learner considered skilled enough on one side of border to to the limit and then cross a magic line and instantly be considered not as skilled so must drop speed.. just another one of our ****ed up rules/laws.. That makes it 2309482098023984029834029384098 now.
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missing the point...
No, I was just answering your original question. It's the same as us being able to do u-turns at lights; but in NSW you can't (unless otherwise signposted).
I don't make the rules :police:
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I don't make the rules :police:
The rules are that stupid, conflicting and consequences of knee jerk reactions here in Qld, that a lot of those who enforce them here have little to no idea of the rules/regulations/legislation. And then there's the NCOP..................
Shane.
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And then there's the NCOP..................
I've alwys wondered what that stands for
N ever
C oming
O ....
P eople
The O has me
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Speed signs are only a guide to work from anyway...... ;D
I'm the same as some of the others, if it's a 100 zone, we do a 100+ 10% until recently, when the margins changed.
Now its the signed number + 5% and yes, i do tend to get nabbed once in a while.
I'd be mortified if i was holding up traffic, as i get the tom tits when someone does it to me.
The ol Jeep shuffles down a gear or two and gets itself over most climbs without issue or dropping under the magic number.
I might add here too, the CT behind the Jeep behaves very well, so towing at a decent speed is easy.
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"Why do people feel the need to drive slower when towing than when not towing?"
1. Increased braking distance
2. Decreased vehicle maneuverability should something bounce in front of the vehicle
I typically drop my speed between 5-10 kph because I'm towing a bloody heavy camper trailer, not because my car is not powerful enough.
Cheers, Marschy
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The O has me
Out.
It's best to stay in the closet.
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I'm at a loss to understand why anyone would think they could successfully contest the speed limit in WA just because it's different in other states. I have no doubt the magistrate hearing you plead your case, won't give a toss, in fact if the magistrate is a native of WA he'll just mumble about bloody easterners and fine you double! :-*
Dead right... If I drive in the eastern states like I am at the moment ( I'm driving in Tassie ) it's my responsibility to a adhere to that states road
rules . No magistrate would have pity on me coz I'm from WA. :-)
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1. Increased braking distance
2. Decreased vehicle maneuverability should something bounce in front of the vehicle
I typically drop my speed between 5-10 kph because I'm towing a bloody heavy camper trailer, not because my car is not powerful enough.
Cheers, Marschy
Again dead right
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1. Increased braking distance
2. Decreased vehicle maneuverability should something bounce in front of the vehicle
I typically drop my speed between 5-10 kph because I'm towing a bloody heavy camper trailer, not because my car is not powerful enough.
Cheers, Marschy
Agreed! But for me my car struggles towing that weight up hills so we are forced to slow down...but damned if that means I shouldn't be towing cos my cars not powerful enough!!!!
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I drop my speed for a few reasons, fuel economy, braking distance and for the fact I have had a trailer I was towing take me off the road, in dry conditions doing less than 80, and I can tell you this really puts the wind up you and makes the bum grip the seat real hard when that happens.
Before you ask I don't know why it suddenly got the sways up as it was loaded pretty even with a little extra in the front for tow ball weight.
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This same question came up on the Caravan and Motorhome Forum a few years ago when i owned one and it was a hot topic of debate on there as well.
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Agreed! But for me my car struggles towing that weight up hills so we are forced to slow down...but damned if that means I shouldn't be towing cos my cars not powerful enough!!!!
Spot on Linda.
Anyway, so long as you can maintain reasonable revs and speed in whichever gear you are in going up hill you are in the right gear for you car, payload and conditions.p
Whatever speed that is in 3rd gear, for example, may well be the 'correct' gear in that instance.
Hills don't last forever, so the P plate hoons can just get a little bit older learning some patience behind you until it is safe to move over to let them pass.
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Personally i think it should work with + or - 10% of the marked speed limit. I hate being stuck behind cars doing 70km in a 100km zone. I know what towing is like some have seen my 9MTR 3.5T caravan i tow. I normally sit on about 90-95 in 100k zones. It's good for the car, good for fuel.
I have to also consider braking at these speed. Pulling up 3.5T behind the car is tricky (straight!) yes i have 4x huge 12" brakes pulling the trailer up but i really drive to mindful of the surroundings the road type etc.
i.e in some roads where the road has been repaired i normally will drop to 85km/hr purely as the road is all bumpy and i get thrown all over the place. If i put the brakes on heavy the trailer jumps all over the place.
I'm within all my limits, but i think its gets back to towing within your limits.! Thats simple..
P.s i never acceralate in double lanes (always to the left) and in most cases if i see a few cars behind me, i'll even just back off that fraction to ensure they all get past and are happy doing their +10% of the posted speed limit..
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Simple, let the conditions dictate the speed you drive at. 100k/h is the limit not the desired speed. Just like 0.05 is the legal limit for alcohol whilst behind the wheel.
As a person who has been affected by tragedy resulting from a speeding motorist I have zero tolerance for any person caught speeding. I just wish the fine/penalty was greater as the one I have is with me for life.
For all of you who might think it's okay to do 110 in a 100 zone but when you next tow your camper try and pull it up in a hurry and see how much further it takes you to stop, you might just learn something :o
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I think the question should be "Why do people feel the need to drive slower when towing than when not towing?"
Safety. There is a serious amount of momentum with a vehicle and trailer travelling at speed, hence braking distance is increased.
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1. Increased braking distance
2. Decreased vehicle maneuverability should something bounce in front of the vehicle
I typically drop my speed between 5-10 kph because I'm towing a bloody heavy camper trailer, not because my car is not powerful enough.
Safety. There is a serious amount of momentum with a vehicle and trailer travelling at speed, hence braking distance is increased.
So all B doubles should only do 90kph?
KB
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Hills don't last forever, so the impatient twats can just get a little bit older learning some patience behind you until it is safe to move over to let them pass.
fixed it for you...sadly it's not just P platers who need to learn some patience
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I drive as fast as I bloody can. Get out of the way you slow b4stards. Well, I used to. Last few trips I have taken more leisurely approach and say on the limit up to 100-105kph, to see what sort of difference it made to my fuel consumption.
This discussion is relevant to all drivers, whether towing or not. If you can't make the limit, don't hold everyone else up unnecessarily. Towing 3.5T around I would always look at what was happening behind me and wave folks past where they seemed unsure if they could mKe it past me.
Julian
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If you can't make the limit, don't hold everyone else up unnecessarily.
in my best Herbert voice..
(http://danielsfunny.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/herbert-the-pervert.png)
"...but its my right to sit on 80 in a 100 zone for 1000klms holding everyone up and never pull over.. they can wait... until I get there then pull over and then and only then can they pass me.. "
(c) nearly every old **** with a caravan I've ever seen.
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I personally love the cb channel stickers.
Ken & barb CH 19
I call up
KEN Barb do you copy
Ken here
ken thats a nice van you have there where have you been
oh barb and I have been at XXXX
Ken where are you heading
We are heading to XXXXX
ken if you dont mind is there any chance you an barb could hurry the FCUK up because we all want to get somewhere. And your doing 80KPH
Radio goes quite
Ken , ken ,ken do you copy
next thing ken pulls over ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Love it I do it all the time... sometimes even others on scan join in.... I figure Ken wants me to call him by putting his number on the back of the van.
Jet ;D ;D
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(http://www.marsecreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Winner.jpg)
I personally love the cb channel stickers.
Ken & barb CH 19
I call up
KEN Barb do you copy
Ken here
ken thats a nice van you have there where have you been
oh barb and I have been at XXXX
Ken where are you heading
We are heading to XXXXX
ken if you dont mind is there any chance you an barb could hurry the FCUK up because we all want to get somewhere. And your doing 80KPH
Radio goes quite
Ken , ken ,ken do you copy
next thing ken pulls over ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Love it I do it all the time... sometimes even others on scan join in.... I figure Ken wants me to call him by putting his number on the back of the van.
Jet ;D ;D
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I've gotta remember that one... Love it!!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
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I personally love the cb channel stickers.
Ken & barb CH 19
I call up
KEN Barb do you copy
Ken here
ken thats a nice van you have there where have you been
oh barb and I have been at XXXX
Ken where are you heading
We are heading to XXXXX
ken if you dont mind is there any chance you an barb could hurry the FCUK up because we all want to get somewhere. And your doing 80KPH
Radio goes quite
Ken , ken ,ken do you copy
next thing ken pulls over ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Love it I do it all the time... sometimes even others on scan join in.... I figure Ken wants me to call him by putting his number on the back of the van.
Jet ;D ;D
An absolute pisser. I will remember that one hahahahaha
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1. Increased braking distance
That's a good reason to leave more distance between you and the car in front, not to travel slower with an open road in front of you and a queue of cars behind!
2. Decreased vehicle maneuverability should something bounce in front of the vehicle
OK, that makes more sense - but if something "bounces out" close to you, 5-10kph speed drop is hardly likely to make much difference.
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That's a good reason to leave more distance between you and the car in front, not to travel slower with an open road in front of you and a queue of cars behind!
The difference in braking distance between 100km and 110km is around 10 metres, that increases with mass.
OK, that makes more sense - but if something "bounces out" close to you, 5-10kph speed drop is hardly likely to make much difference.
Refer to my response above.
No harm in being cautious. However, the harm that impatience can cause can have fatal consequences.
Cheers, Marschy
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We usually tow at the speed limit.
Jet that is bloody hilarious and makes me want to install a cb in my Prado just to do that :cup:
Would have loved to have done that on our way home from Lightening Ridge earlier this year hahaha :angel:
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P1 platers in NSW can only legally do 90kph AND are allowed to tow.
http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/licensing/gettingalicence/car/provisional_licence.html (http://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/licensing/gettingalicence/car/provisional_licence.html)
Personally I think the contributes to more accidents than it prevents. A law abiding P Plater doing 90 can hold up a long line of traffic on some roads, which in turn causes dangerous overtaking manoeuvres.
I'm with the OP in that I am often unable to maintain the speed limit when towing on uphill grades no different in that way from so many trucks, but to have legal road users actually prevented from driving to the full limit in otherwise safe conditions IMO does not make the roads safer.
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Hi,
We have a few old rules on the books here, 90 kmh with a trailer, not many know about it.
It is observed more in breach than compliance, and harks back to the '50s when a pillion speed limit was introduced for motorcycles I suspect.
Link (http://toolboxes.flexiblelearning.net.au/archive/tour/security/toolbox/hq/staff/bob/trailer.htm#Tas)
cheers
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Yes.
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Did a couple of checks of legislation.
The Australian Road Rules say you can travel at whatever the sign says except if you are a bus with a GVM over 5T or another vehicle with a GVM over 12T then it is a max of 100kph.
That is how it is in Vic.
Rules are about 90% the same between states. The 10% is getting smaller. Takes years though to change and agree.
Australian road rules are "model" rules which the states tweak
Heavy veh laws are going to adopted by most states as they are written. ( not WA and NT I believe)
Licence rego drink driving etc are up to each state.
Can't fight something in court based on another States laws. Basically come to my state play by my rules. When I come to your state I obey yours.
As for the OP I agree keep up or let me past when safe.
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We will generally sit within 5k's of the speed limit. But must say having a V6 Prado I will use around 3L Per 100 more towing at 110Km's compared with 95-100Km's.
I think it really just comes down to common courtesy, if you can move over and let them go by then do so. In saying that everyone just needs to learn a bit of patience.
My biggest annoyance is when Im doing the limit with trailer in tow and some moron wants to sit 2 metres away, in which case Ill start to slow down and if they dont back off a light tap of the brakes will usually make them understand.
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We will generally sit within 5k's of the speed limit. But must say having a V6 Prado I will use around 3L Per 100 more towing at 110Km's compared with 95-100Km's.
I think it really just comes down to common courtesy, if you can move over and let them go by then do so. In saying that everyone just needs to learn a bit of patience.
My biggest annoyance is when Im doing the limit with trailer in tow and some moron wants to sit 2 metres away, in which case Ill start to slow down and if they dont back off a light tap of the brakes will usually make them understand.
Totally agree !!
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Tow at whatever speed you feel comfortable with - that is your right as a driver to keep everyone safe. Only you know how safe you feel!
But FFS - if you're traveling slower than the speed limit keep a good eye on what's going on behind you and let people pass wherever and whenever you can - that's courtesy and will be appreciated.
Even if you're traveling at or near the speed limit do the same. It's not up to you to slow someone else down who might be traveling over the limit - that's their problem!
Exactly... Courtesy on the road goes along way on the road.
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In the NT we have a 130kmh speed limit which my setup can do even towing -- bit high on the fuel consumption at that those speeds.
But soon I will not have a hope in hell doing the speed limit >:D , as were getting open speed limit again in the NT. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-15/open-speed-limit-trial-alice-christmas/5022962?section=nt (http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-15/open-speed-limit-trial-alice-christmas/5022962?section=nt)
It's a rather useless move IMO, as a lot of that road is unfenced with live stock on the road etc.
:cheers:
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I have a old falcon panelvan and a home built trailer that i put electric brakes on.
I drive slower for a few reasons.
-My panelvanvan has 380 000 odd thousand k's on the orig motor, so she sometimes doesnt have the steam for some hills :)
-My van has ancient braking system so i like to leave a gap in front of me that i can feel comfortable with, if anyone has driven and old falcon they know what i mean.
(and damn you little car drivers thinking that gap is for them....)
-If i cant do the signed limit i am the first one to call on the UHF and let anyone know i will pull over for them to pass once safe and i do pull over and wave people through. (not to many replies though on uhf i must add.)
-Also the fact i love my van, she goes everywhere and doesnt let us down too much for all i put it through.
I now live on the road full time and am loving it, need to get me some Myswag stickers so least you know who your yelling at for holding you up.
But i am not going to stop seeing this amazing country of ours!
:P
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1380768_10152265199862995_1547174939_n.jpg)
Gecko
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Nanango to Kilcoy yesterday, towing the Q on the speed limit. Young miss y-gen screaches to a halt at a side street, thankfully realising that she wouldn't make it onto the highway without me T-boning her.
She then proceeds to overtake me across double white lines, leading to a sweeping left hand bend that she couldn't see around. And then overtook the car in front, again across double white lines.
And they say bikers are temporary Australians! :'(
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Nanango to Kilcoy yesterday, towing the Q on the speed limit. Young miss y-gen screaches to a halt at a side street, thankfully realising that she wouldn't make it onto the highway without me T-boning her.
She then proceeds to overtake me across double white lines, leading to a sweeping left hand bend that she couldn't see around. And then overtook the car in front, again across double white lines.
And they say bikers are temporary Australians! :'(
She gets around. She was on Colouredburn road this morning texting while taking up 3 lanes in a....... MICRA! And I got the glare from her when I pulled up alongside her... ;D ;D ;D ;D
If anyones loking for a secretary, judging the speed her fingers were texting at, I'd say easily 120/wpm.
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I found a solution - anyone over 60 and ALL caravaners needs one of these fitted
:cup: :cup: :cup: :cup: :cup:
(http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTU0WDQxNA==/$(KGrHqV,!qME88f7,I,+BPWTGdP7kQ~~60_12.JPG) (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/300675818898/)
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the posted sign is the limit not the challenge
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A mate just got back from america and he said there is a minimum and max speed limits over there. So they have a speed envelope to drive in..
iPad with IOS 7.02 using Tapatalk HD
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I have a old falcon panelvan and a home built trailer that i put electric brakes on.
I drive slower for a few reasons.
-My panelvanvan has 380 000 odd thousand k's on the orig motor, so she sometimes doesnt have the steam for some hills :)
-My van has ancient braking system so i like to leave a gap in front of me that i can feel comfortable with, if anyone has driven and old falcon they know what i mean.
(and damn you little car drivers thinking that gap is for them....)
-If i cant do the signed limit i am the first one to call on the UHF and let anyone know i will pull over for them to pass once safe and i do pull over and wave people through. (not to many replies though on uhf i must add.)
-Also the fact i love my van, she goes everywhere and doesnt let us down too much for all i put it through.
I now live on the road full time and am loving it, need to get me some Myswag stickers so least you know who your yelling at for holding you up.
But i am not going to stop seeing this amazing country of ours!
:P
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1380768_10152265199862995_1547174939_n.jpg)
Gecko
Good on ya mate!
We have a Kimberley and a Navara D22 with a little 2.5 litre motor. Any hill will slow the rig down and many force change downs to 4th or third or even second on some occasions.
We routinely sit on around 85 to 95 on the flat and let anybody who wants to pass do so when safe. If some impatient basterd can't wait five minutes or so for us to get over the hill or find a safe place to pull over for them, then they can just piss off.
I am rapidly approaching 60. My reaction time is not what it once might have been and I think many of the caravaners are in the same boat. They drive at speeds they are comfortable with. Sure not all are blessed with courtesy or good manners but then again, neither are all trailer campers.
The speed limit is the maximum speed allowed, not the speed at which every driver must travel at.
Please take a word of caution from an old goat. Slow down a bit, enjoy the ride. The destination is only part of the journey.
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A mate just got back from america and he said there is a minimum and max speed limits over there. So they have a speed envelope to drive in..
In reality its the same here.. you can get fined for going too slow here - apparently... I'd say that would never have happened EVER though.
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In reality its the same here.. you can get fined for going too slow here - apparently... I'd say that would never have happened EVER though.
A gazillions years ago, in the days of MPH and unrestricted speed limits, a copper pulled a woman over for doing under 60mph on the Geelong - Melbourne road in peak hour and gave her a warning for driving slowly, "don't you realise people need to get to work?" he asked. Gave her a warning and sent her on her way.
Of course, back then the road was 2 lanes each way, no Maltby By-Pass etc.
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I had a Police Officer walk into work this morning and asked the question"Can you get booked for going too slow?" His reply was yes if it is a safety issue or causing large delays, he mentioned in 22 years of policing he has only written 1 ticket for driving too slow and that was for a young P Plater that was doing 60Km/h on the Bruce Highway heading towards Rockhampton and holding up alot of traffic for no good reason at all.
So it does happen, but must be relatively rare.
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In WA you can get booked for going to slow. Not that I know anybody that has been booked. 20/kmh below the speed limit on a freeway is an offence I was told by a police officer (old mate of mine)
My Nana still drives but my grandad has handed his licence back some 15 yrs ago. She drives slower than the posted speed limit but does not travel on any freeways, just down to the local shop for groceries and maybe out to lunch occasionally. She is 84 yrs young.
They have owned many ct's and caravan in their time and she still travels at a speed she feels comfortable with. They were the reason I got the camping bug at a very young age.
My opinion is you drive to what you are comfortable with, towing a ct or not. Obviously observing the maximum speed limit (you don't want a speeding ticket on your holiday)
I will be towing our ct between 95-100. My main reason is fuel economy. Less fuel........ more :cheers:
Enjoy the drive..........your destination is not going anywhere.
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Everyone is in a rush these days, take a minute and enjoy the trip. I sound like an old fart!
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diggin old thread i know....
But i just did Mount Tamborine with our full load and trailer, wow, yep the old panelvan felt all of her 380 odd thousand k's on her clock...
We were sitting at 35 in the steepest parts, but i was smart enough to wait till a truck came to follow it up. Makes it look like he was holding us up hahaha.
Now we hit toowoomba and coming up the range we sat between two trucks and just took our time with them.
The only bad part was the lack of fresh air up the range for the radiator... and we now have a hole in the rear core plug.
Still ticking along, just havent done the radiator cap on tight and let the water flow and we dont lose too much.
So far we have had to replace the radiator, all coolant hoses, the core plugs in the side of the block and have the final one in the glove box and a new water pump in the trailer for just in case.
loving this country from tassie all the way up.
Gecko and Dex.
Living on the road 16mths and counting.
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Be mindful of what is stamped on the trailer compliance plate. They have a maximum speed on the plate. I used to tow the camper trailer at 110km/hr in 110km/hr zones thinking I was legal. Checked the plate and it had a maximum speed of 100km/hr. Bummer. :police:
With the van we drive to conditions with a very well set up rig and sit on 95 to 100km/hr (except for the big hills and depending on wind) and find slow car drivers to be a problem. particularly the clever ones that speed up when they come to overtaking lanes.
Cheers
Stue
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What pi$$es me of is the clowns who insist on towing their tajmahal modconned block of flats slap bang in the middle of their bit of road. You come up on 'em and they won't budge over to the fog line (or shoulder if no fog line) so you can see past them to overtake. Nor do they have any concept of the unwritten law of the road with the indicator flick to pass. Then after you have had ya head outta the window to try and see past em, spotted ya gap, they still don't acknowledge that you are overtaking them, the rotten sods drift toward the centreline as if it's a crime to overtake............hence I try to do most of my driving after 4pm, thru the night until 9am. Their off having tea and scones or taken up some road side stop for an overnighter.........
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1st rule of CT towing
Whats behind you doesn't matter its history :cheers:
l call it " Butterfly Netting get 4 or 5 behind you them pullover to let them pass , sometimes you cal collect the same clown twice . That's part of the journey :cup:
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or do they have any concept of the unwritten law of the road with the indicator flick to pass.
I hate that one. I don't see it much these days I got caught out years ago when I thought it was for me to overtake, but it was a late I'm turning right.
Last time it happened was a few months ago on the Sturt Highway. I was just moving out to overtake a caravan whose speed was up and down. I got the "flick" from him so I pulled back in, in case I missed something. Hate it. Just move over to the left of the lane and let me decide when to overtake
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I hate that one. I don't see it much these days I got caught out years ago when I thought it was for me to overtake, but it was a late I'm turning right.
Last time it happened was a few months ago on the Sturt Highway. I was just moving out to overtake a caravan whose speed was up and down. I got the "flick" from him so I pulled back in, in case I missed something. Hate it. Just move over to the left of the lane and let me decide when to overtake
Agree the indicator flick is to open to interpretation Unless there is a two way conversation on the UHF then it is bad luck
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What pi$$es me of is the clowns who insist on towing their tajmahal modconned block of flats slap bang in the middle of their bit of road. You come up on 'em and they won't budge over to the fog line (or shoulder if no fog line) so you can see past them to overtake. Nor do they have any concept of the unwritten law of the road with the indicator flick to pass. Then after you have had ya head outta the window to try and see past em, spotted ya gap, they still don't acknowledge that you are overtaking them, the rotten sods drift toward the centreline as if it's a crime to overtake............hence I try to do most of my driving after 4pm, thru the night until 9am. Their off having tea and scones or taken up some road side stop for an overnighter.........
run them off the road.
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Then after you have had ya head outta the window to try and see past em,
Don't sit so close.
Drop right off them and read the road ahead (tree line , power lines, centre road markings). When you know the road is going to open up and you could overtake if clear start accelerating so you catch them as it opens with steam up.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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Don't sit so close.
Drop right off them and read the road ahead (tree line , power lines, centre road markings). When you know the road is going to open up and you could overtake if clear start accelerating so you catch them as it opens with steam up.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Getting past speed wise ain't the issue, it's what's coming at me...........
anyways, you'd have to be 5km back to see past the clowns as they have the drivers wheel of the tajmahal on the centreline..............
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l call it " Butterfly Netting get 4 or 5 behind you then pullover to let them pass.
+1 - Patience & consideration does wonders for stress levels
I happened to be looking through my vehicle manual for some info last weekend and re-read the section where it says that if I am towing an unbraked trailer (which my old aussie swag is) my speed should not exceed 80kph. Towing at 80kph on the flat wouldn't make me too many friends but if something did happen I assume there may be some insurance problems if I was exceeding this speed.
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I hate that one. I don't see it much these days I got caught out years ago when I thought it was for me to overtake, but it was a late I'm turning right.
Last time it happened was a few months ago on the Sturt Highway. I was just moving out to overtake a caravan whose speed was up and down. I got the "flick" from him so I pulled back in, in case I missed something. Hate it. Just move over to the left of the lane and let me decide when to overtake
I used to be a fan of the indicator flick but no more.
I was driving an Iveco bus for work which has the Indicators and wipers switched around, I had a bloke up my clacker wanting to get around and it was raining, I had moved over to the fog line and was going to give him the indicator flick to come around when the coast was clear when I decided to flick the wipers on to clear the windscreen from the rain and you guessed it I hit the bloody indicator. Well old mate come flying around me and there was a car coming the other way, luckily he realised in time and ducked back in and when he got around me he gave me the good ole death stare and middle finger.. I felt like absolute S*%t about it and now no longer do the Indicator flick if I need to travel slow I just keep hard left and back off when they come around, or pull over completely..
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In the MPH days didn't you have to flash your headlights at the car in front of you to show you intend to overtake them? That's in Vic. :police:
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I've been reading some of these posts and agree with most, but they still all suggest its ok to drive under the limit and people should just slow down and enjoy the ride.
Yes that's true, but what if people choose not to?
They are legally allowed to travel at or just below the speed limit and have the right not to be held up because someone else wants to go slow.
I know when I head away somewhere, the first few hours are just driving on the boring highway to get the heck out of dodge and I don't want to go slow and enjoy the scenery.
Streams of mundane cars along the Hume highway is not that exciting. Or perhaps I missed something???
As others have already posted - YES, its ok to drive under the speed limit, but just be considerate of other road users.
As with most posts on this forum the logical answer is to just we aware and considerate of others.
(smoking, driving, camping, noise, and almost anything else in life.......)
I was always taught to treat others how I want to be treated, and I live to that, but these days it seems to be a one way street.
I'm starting to think about becoming a hermit. (near a pub of course)
Brian
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I used to be a fan of the indicator flick but no more.
Ditto, If someone wants to overtake me, I let them make the decision... I try to make it as easy as possible [fog line etc] BUT I won't confuse them as I have also been caught out with on coming cars.
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100ks is nice normally in no hurry when towing and ya can all pass
rub your ears and go emmmmmmmm emmmmmm it works
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Also be mindful that not everyone on the highway is on holidays, some people are working
(not sure if this has already been said)
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As with most posts on this forum the logical answer is to just we aware and considerate of others.
X2 on above...i normally sit on the limit and will say at times maybe a touch over even when towing our camper trailer if i'm trying to get somewhere, but coming up big steep ranges i know i don't have the power to keep that speed continuing. 2 weeks ago i climbed a steepish range on the Bruxner Hwy whilst towing the camper and twice slowed down some (even though i was already about 20klms under the limit) and moved off the road onto the shoulder to let other vehicles get past me as we did the long climb to the top. I know how frustrated i get at people who hold others up on climbs or twisty roads and speed up again the minute they get on a flat or straight section of road without letting people they are holding up get past them, so i make a point of moving over the minute i can to let anyone i might be holding up get past me, it's just common curtisy IMHO.
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As we are getting further into the "dry" season, the amount of caravaners on the road has exploded. So for those who have to travel the Bruce Highway and share the road with the Caravaners its nice to have people who have camper trailers doing close to the speed limit.
Im not saying that you have to be sitting on 100kph, as I myself too sit around 90+kph whilst towing on Holidays but when you get kilometre long convoys of vehicles stuck behind a caravan its really frustrating.
Then again when you are able to leapfrog up through the traffic, I usually hear someone in the back say that they require a toilet break so I have to stop and watch all the traffic go by.
Driving to Cairns next weekend :laugh: :laugh:
Rant over
Regards
Angus.
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Doesn't matter what speed you are doing if you're in roo country. There's a certain breed of Grey Nomad in a $100,000 4WD towing a $100,000 "off road (ha)" full caravan who will tuck right in behind you, so that you hit the roos and their investment is "safe". At one stage last yr in SW QLD had picked up two of them, one tailgating me (Cruiser truck) and the second tailgating the first, got down to 80kph but no desire to pass and open up the road for everyone, so I pulled over. Gents, not safe driving at all.
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Here's an eye opener. We just travelled 2100k's with me in the rodeo fully packed at 90k's and the family in the Prado with the camper at the speed limit. We agreed to stop every 2-2.5 hrs. Usually I arrived 5-10 min later.
Once the focus on time was removed it was very relaxing. Only issue I had was trying to find safe places to move over and let people pass on the pacific highway north of coffs. It's almost impossible to find them.
What I would love to see is some of the old sections of highway connected as slow sections for this reason.
But mainly relax. It really doesn't matter.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
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The biggest issue seems to be the lack of passing lanes. The busier the road the worse the problem >:(
More attention to the quality of roads would make things much safer and a lot easier
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The biggest issue seems to be the lack of passing lanes. The busier the road the worse the problem >:(
More attention to the quality of roads would make things much safer and a lot easier
Interestingly the main highway from Hobart to Launceston is single lane but has numerous overtaking lanes (on the hills mainly) that seem to work really well. Never been held up for too long even when half of Hobart travels up for the footy.
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Just do the best you can at driving at the limit, the truck drivers love it...................NOT.. pull over or slow down and let them past as long as its safe.
chat to them on the radio first and even apologize, then chat to them about letting them past.
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My two pet hates:
1. Caravans that end up in a nose to tail convoy so nobody can pass, how hard is it? Most of them don't even use mirrors
2. People who do 90 most of the time and 130 in the overtaking lane, wtf is up with that?
Unless it's really windy I will sit between 100 and 110 depending on limits in the FJ, people must see it and think big slow 4wd overtaking so they speed up?
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My two pet hates:
1. Caravans that end up in a nose to tail convoy so nobody can pass, how hard is it? Most of them don't even use mirrors
2. People who do 90 most of the time and 130 in the overtaking lane, wtf is up with that?
Unless it's really windy I will sit between 100 and 110 depending on limits in the FJ, people must see it and think big slow 4wd overtaking so they speed up?
They do the same no matter what you're driving. I think that they are such bad drivers that they feel scared when the road is narrow, so go slower, and confident when there is 2 lanes, so go faster. either that or they are just d*@kheads
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Thats pretty clever anaysis, hadnt thought of that before..
Around here there are heaps of guard rails, making the roads look narrower, the guard rails are there to protect the trees from cars hitting them, well something like that..
Years ago when they were erecting more of them I was thinking that one day when the roads are virtually have them almost everywhere then new drivers will be scared when there isnt any rails...
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Not an issue for me. I drive according to what I judge to be what is safe for me and my vehicle and my family.
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My two pet hates:
1. Caravans that end up in a nose to tail convoy so nobody can pass, how hard is it? Most of them don't even use mirrors
2. People who do 90 most of the time and 130 in the overtaking lane, wtf is up with that?
Unless it's really windy I will sit between 100 and 110 depending on limits in the FJ, people must see it and think big slow 4wd overtaking so they speed up?
Your so right up here at least. Were just lucky we have 5k straits to over-take.
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Not an issue for me. I drive according to what I judge to be what is safe for me and my vehicle and my family.
but you might be lunatic.......
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But if I am my family will still be safe. I drive a Prado with a 1.5 tonne camper and going down the Clyde Mountain to the coast when the signs say 100kph - I drive at about 90 to ensure I can pull up ok.
BTW what was your stupid point.
but you might be lunatic.......
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Just that you sounded like a pompous wombat was all.
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In the MPH days didn't you have to flash your headlights at the car in front of you to show you intend to overtake them? That's in Vic. :police:
Nope that's current.
It used to be sound the horn.
Who's hearing that nowadays with current vehicles.
No-one, that's why you flash the lights.
If you speed up while being overtaken, it's FAILING TO GIVE WAY, same as at an intersection.
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Hi,
We have a few old rules on the books here, 90 kmh with a trailer, not many know about it.
It is observed more in breach than compliance, and harks back to the '50s when a pillion speed limit was introduced for motorcycles I suspect.
Link (http://toolboxes.flexiblelearning.net.au/archive/tour/security/toolbox/hq/staff/bob/trailer.htm#Tas)
cheers
That got me thinking. I looked at the booklet that my daughter has to get her license & it doesn't say anything about a towing speed limit.
http://www.dier.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/49096/road_rules_booklet.pdf (http://www.dier.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/49096/road_rules_booklet.pdf)
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Nope that's current.
It used to be sound the horn.
Who's hearing that nowadays with current vehicles.
No-one, that's why you flash the lights.
If you speed up while being overtaken, it's FAILING TO GIVE WAY, same as at an intersection.
Try going up behind someone and flashing your lights today. They will either slow down , give you the rude finger , hit the brakes or a combination of the three.
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They do the same no matter what you're driving. I think that they are such bad drivers that they feel scared when the road is narrow, so go slower, and confident when there is 2 lanes, so go faster. either that or they are just d*@kheads
Interesting! I followed a car for 20 odd kms today that would sit on 60 - 70 in a 90 zone when oncoming traffic was only seperated by the centre lines. As soon as the road seperated they where up to speed, then back to 60 - 70 when the roads merged back together again.
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Interesting! I followed a car for 20 odd kms today that would sit on 60 - 70 in a 90 zone when oncoming traffic was only seperated by the centre lines. As soon as the road seperated they where up to speed, then back to 60 - 70 when the roads merged back together again.
Sorry if anyone thinks this is out of line, but I think they are a damn danger on the road.
Lets be honest, if you can't safely operate a vehicle at the posted speed limit, (usual assumptions, like its not a tractor, b double, learner, really old, or towing...etc etc) then you are obviously not confident enough to safely operate on the roads where other people and their families lives are at risk because of your inability.
Now I'm not saying they should be shot or pulled off the road, but surely they should be expected to have enough brain cells to work out they need further training and education.
Alternatively if they are just a casual driver who's in no hurry or just sojourning around, then they need to exercise some consideration for other road users who are not in the same situation.
Delivery drivers have deliveries to make, people need to get home to pick up children or cook dinner or any multitude of other reasons why they don't want to drive 30kph under the speed limit.
Again- simple consideration.
Why are gun laws so stringent, but any moron can operate a far more lethal vehicle with little or no training and litlle or no consideration?
Obvious disclaimer, that no myswagger would ever drive like this, so the reference is to the general populous of ignorant drivers........