One one of the last postings in "4x4 Drivers" Joby made a very relevant comment in that Lorry drivers pose a very real threat to us caravaners. I have huge sympathy for the caravan driver who is sandwiched between two large lorries and, whilst cruising at a steady 60, has a juggernaut within a few feet of his rear.
And it's not just that, these massive beasts then pull out and attempt to overtake, taking many minutes to perform this manoeuvre. Meanwhile (again) you are boxed in as you experience the fun of the change in air pressure as this vehicle passes you, inch by inch.
And then there was the tow car (being driven by a caravanner) who almost CAUSED an accident on the M6 recently. I was sandwiched between lorries (as above) and I decided I had to extract myself. When all was clear, I moved into the middle lane and was proceeding perfectly safely (enjoying the less turbulent air flow) and the speed (I admit) crept up to a max at one point of 67mph; I accept this. To my astonishment and horror, a couple behind in their Nissan X-Trail (being driven solo but with a tow bar) pulled up alongside me and starting to gesticulate wildly. I was concentrating on finalising my overtaking manoeuvre but was suddenly aware that the man to my right was shouting and making gestures. A quick glance revealed that he was mouthing the words "SIXTY MILES PER HOUR". He then decided to cut in front of me and put the brakes on !! Luckily, I was able to return to the inside lane immediately but this self righteous idiot could have caused an accident.
However, the above was hopefully a 'one off'. As I say, my real concern is large lorries which, because of tight schedules and deadlines, REFUSE to slow up and maintain a safe distance causing real anxiety to the driver of the tow vehicle who is merely trying to drive safely at around 60 mph. (and woe betide you if you attempt to cruise at less than 60; they'll try to mow you down!)
Thoughts? John
And it's not just that, these massive beasts then pull out and attempt to overtake, taking many minutes to perform this manoeuvre. Meanwhile (again) you are boxed in as you experience the fun of the change in air pressure as this vehicle passes you, inch by inch.
And then there was the tow car (being driven by a caravanner) who almost CAUSED an accident on the M6 recently. I was sandwiched between lorries (as above) and I decided I had to extract myself. When all was clear, I moved into the middle lane and was proceeding perfectly safely (enjoying the less turbulent air flow) and the speed (I admit) crept up to a max at one point of 67mph; I accept this. To my astonishment and horror, a couple behind in their Nissan X-Trail (being driven solo but with a tow bar) pulled up alongside me and starting to gesticulate wildly. I was concentrating on finalising my overtaking manoeuvre but was suddenly aware that the man to my right was shouting and making gestures. A quick glance revealed that he was mouthing the words "SIXTY MILES PER HOUR". He then decided to cut in front of me and put the brakes on !! Luckily, I was able to return to the inside lane immediately but this self righteous idiot could have caused an accident.
However, the above was hopefully a 'one off'. As I say, my real concern is large lorries which, because of tight schedules and deadlines, REFUSE to slow up and maintain a safe distance causing real anxiety to the driver of the tow vehicle who is merely trying to drive safely at around 60 mph. (and woe betide you if you attempt to cruise at less than 60; they'll try to mow you down!)
Thoughts? John