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Holiday accident, youclaim.co.uk

Choose a suitable car to avoid having a holiday caravan accident

Caravanning is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, with many more families taking to the road to enjoy the independence and comfort offered in modern mobile homes, but drivers need to take care to avoid a holiday caravan accident.

A far cry from the first caravans of the last century, which were modified horse-drawn vehicles or individually purpose-built homes on wheels, today's models offer a true home-from-home with all the latest conveniences and technology making the most of the restricted space.

However, because their size has increased over the years to accommodate the desired interior improvements, towing a caravan in the 21st Century is not something to be undertaken lightly by a novice otherwise a car crash could well occur, with the resulting distress and possible injury for all involved.

Techniques for towing a caravan are similar to pulling along a large trailer behind a car, but the extra bulk makes a real difference in terms of driver control and ability to react quickly to changes in road conditions, traffic and the weather.

Choosing a suitable model of car to tow a caravan is most important with the wide range of both caravans and cars now available.

Expert advice on matching the size and capabilities of the pair, which is known as an outfit when used together, can make all the difference to having a safe and relaxing drive to a campsite or ending the journey prematurely after a road traffic accident.

Most reputable caravan dealers will be happy to advise on the type of cars suitable for pulling particular models with information on power to weight ratios. There are a number of member organisations for regular caravanners, such as The Caravan Club which publishes a lot of helpful leaflets, organises training for novice caravan towers and runs a comprehensive website.

As most people will want to be able to drive their towing car at times other than when they are touring, a medium-sized fairly economical vehicle will be required for everyday use, but one which is also capable of holiday duties. The Caravan Club organises test drives of a variety of cars and assesses them to name a Tow Car of the Year which best meets its criteria.

Ideally, drivers need the heaviest practical car because then it is less likely that the following caravan will sway or snake, particularly when driven at speed along a motorway. The total loaded weight of the caravan should be no more than 85% of the car's kerb weight.

Once a driver has a suitable car, becomes experienced at towing and is familiar with the need for caution in certain circumstances his family's journey is more likely to end happily at a campsite rather than looking at a caravan overturned and wrecked on the side of the road.

YouClaim can help after a holiday caravan accident

Should a holiday caravan accident occur as a result of an error of judgement by the driver of the towing vehicle then he is unlikely to succeed in making a compensation claim for any personal injury occurring, but if the car crash was the result of the actions or neglect of another road user than it may be possible to make a justified claim.

YouClaim's personal injury lawyers have many years of experience in helping those who have suffered from a driver or passenger injury to gain recompense for their pain, suffering or loss of earnings after an accident which was not their fault.

Operating throughout the UK and accredited by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, YouClaim's top legal executives are ready to advise and represent claimants on a no win, no fee basis. This means that any compensation won is handed over without any deductions.

With many satisfied clients who have sought help on a wide variety of matters relating to holiday injuries and road traffic accidents, we may well be able to help you, too. Why not call our free helpline now on 0800 10 757 95 and talk to us about your holiday caravan accident.