Situations to avoid when caravanning through Gippsland

When towing, whether it be a trailer or caravan, safety chains perform a vital role in the off chance the coupling is separated from the tow ball.

Safety chains for towing must meet Australian Standard 4177, which certifies it to tow a maximum load of 3500 kilograms.

Here are some scenarios involving worst case scenarios with safety chains and their misuse.

Scenario 1

Dustin and Pam are about to set off on their long awaited holiday to East Gippsland. As they are leaving town, An animal runs in front of the car causing Dustin to brake suddenly. This causes the car and caravan to jack-knife with the caravans coupling to come off the tow ball. Luckily Dustin had his safety chains connected before leaving and while there is minimal damage to the caravan, Dustin realises how dangerous is could have been as the caravan would have veered into the oncoming traffic.

Scenario 2

Dustin and Pam are caravaning through Gippsland to attend a local country music festival. The police pull them over because they have failed to secure the safety chains. While the police said they could issue a fine they allowed Dustin to secure his safety chains and wave him on with a warning.

Scenario 3

Dustin and Pam hit a large bump on the way to Lakes Entrance. Dustin forgot to attach the safety chains at his last stop, and the coupling has bounced of the tow ball causing the caravan to come off and smash into 3 cars behind him. Luckily no one is hurt, but Dustin realises the seriousness of implications he caused.