Buying a recreational vehicle (RV) can open the door to endless adventures, but driving such a large automobile can be intimidating for first-time RV owners. While insurance will protect you from the perils of the road, learning how to drive your new vehicle before setting out will help you avoid accidents in the first place. Below are a few essential tips for using your RV.

How to Drive an RV Safely

1. Start Practicing

Much like learning to drive a car, the only way to learn is by doing it. Find a large, empty parking lot and steer your RV around late at night or early in the morning. This will help you get a feel for how it drives, accelerates, and brakes. You can also practice parking and avoiding small objects such as shopping carts.

2. Take Wide Turns

RVs are longer than passenger vehicles, so you must take wider turns than usual. This is especially true if you’re turning right; otherwise, your wheels might run over the curb or knock over someone’s trash can.

3. Adjust the Mirrors

Most RVs have a more limited view than other vehicles, so you should adjust all of the mirrors. Turning the side mirrors so they show only a small section of your vehicle will make the blind spots as little as possible.

4. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Because they’re the largest passenger vehicles on the road, RVs can cause considerable damage in an accident. In addition to extending your liability coverage, you should also consider investing in collision and comprehensive insurance to protect your RV.

As one of the Cincinnati, OH, area’s premier insurance agencies, 1st Choice Insurance offers high-quality coverage to everyone, no matter their credit rating or driving history. They work with a vast network of providers to find the right RV policy for your needs. Visit their website for more on their insurance services, get more tips and advice on Facebook, or call (513) 860-0666 to request a free quote today.