Tips for Safely Driving Your RV at Night

When it comes to driving your recreational vehicle, you’d probably prefer to stick to daylight hours. After all, these rigs aren’t small and they can make driving inherently more challenging than it otherwise would be. But sometimes, maybe due to weather delays, too long of a rest stop or some other timely concern, you end up driving at night. This could happen in winter, also, when the days are extremely short and you just don’t get as much sunlight as you’d like.

Here are some tips for safe RV driving after dark to help you stay safe and avoid harming any other motorists.

1. Don’t Drive Tired

Of course, this tip applies regardless of the time of day, but you’re much more likely to become tired at night after a long day of driving. While you might be tempted to push yourself just another hour or two to arrive at your destination on time, it’s really not worth it. The risks of driving while tired can be as bad as driving while under the influence of alcohol! 

Studies have shown that exhausted drivers have slower reaction times, poorer focus and they’re more likely to make sudden or rash maneuvers that can get them into a serious accident. Pull over and get some rest as soon as you feel your eyes grow heavy, or swap out with another driver in your vehicle who’s had a chance to catch a nap.

2. Keep Your Windshield Clean

Your windshield is literally your window to the world when you’re driving, and it’s going to be harder to see in general when the sun has set. Make sure that both the interior and exterior of your windshield are clean and streak-free. Condensation can often set in, especially here in the Pacific Northwest, so maybe keep a squeegee in your car to wipe it away and make use of your heaters to warm up the interior. Replace wiper blades and refill windshield-wiper fluid before your trips.

3. Add Extra Outside Lighting

Adding some more lights to the outside of your RV can help to illuminate your path and make your RV easier for other drivers to see. Bright LED lights on the sides of your RV make it more visible, provided they aren’t so bright that they blind other drivers.

4. Remain Vigilant

Watch the road carefully and keep your eyes moving to scan left and right. You’ll need to be especially vigilant for stopped cars as well as poor road conditions and animals that may cross your path. 

5. Dim Inside Lights

The interior lights in your RV can also cause a distraction and create glare. Turn off all inside lights and insist that your passengers avoid using them. Have your passengers dim their screens if they’re on phones or tablets, too.

When you’re ready to shop for RVs, visit our dealership in Richland, WA, to check out our wide stock of new and used RVs for sale. Horn Rapids RV proudly serves our neighbors in Kennewick, WA.