One in 10 caravan owners face huge £2,500 fine and points for common habit

UK law states that it is illegal for someone to carry a passenger in a caravan when it is being towed by another vehicle.

This is down to major safety concerns, with the additional weight in the caravan or trailer potentially leading to accidents and serious injuries.

However, new research of 508 caravan owners found that 10 percent have previously driven with a child in the caravan.

A further 12 percent admitted to doing the same, but with an adult in the back, causing the risk of accidents to dramatically increase.

Rule 98 of the Highway Code sets out how drivers should act when towing and loading, both before and during as well as in the event of a breakdown.

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One section highlights how motorists should “distribute the weight in your caravan or trailer evenly with heavy items over the axle(s) and ensure a downward load on the tow ball”. 

Drivers should also avoid exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended weight and tow ball load, or this could destabilise the vehicle.

Just 23 percent of respondents to the Ripe Caravan Insurance survey were aware that carrying an adult while towing is illegal.

John Woosey, Founder of Ripe Caravan Insurance, reiterated the warning to drivers about the consequences they face.

He said: “While it may be tempting to let passengers ride in your caravan while towing it on the road, it’s important to remember that caravans are not designed to be crash-proof, so the person is likely to suffer serious injury in the event of a collision. 

“Aside from the safety implications, a possible fine of £2,500, points and a driving ban is certainly not worth running the risk. 

“We strongly advise all caravanners to read up on the regulations before hitting the road, to avoid potentially ruining a well-deserved trip away.” 

Not only could it lead to massive fines, penalty points on their driving licences or even a driving ban, it could also injure their passenger severely.

There is very little protection for someone in the caravan in the event of a crash, and given the extra weight, this is made more likely.

All people with a full UK driving licence can tow trailers with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 3,500kg, following law changes in 2021.

The maximum trailer width for any towing vehicle is 2.55 metres and the maximum length is seven metres.

Drivers must also be aware of speed limits, with a maximum speed of 50mph on single-carriageways and 60mph on dual-carriageways.