Every caravan owner issued Easter message over risk of £2,500 bill

Caravan owners have been told to make sure they update key documentation before heading off for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend due to simple driving rules. Having the correct insurance and breakdown cover in place before heading onto the roads was crucial while road users must also ensure all towing requirements are met. 

This can vary on an individual basis with different rules depending on the size of the vehicle and when motorists first obtained their driving licence. It means motorists who are not on top of the rules could be caught out with hefty fines in place for those found to be breaking the rules. Experts from Auto Finance issued the warning ahead of the big Easter getaway with millions expected to hit the roads this weekend.

Auto Finance explained: “Before you plan too far ahead, make sure that your caravan or motorhome insurance is up to date, as well as your breakdown cover. And, if required, book a service for your car before heading out. 

“You’ll also need to make sure your car meets the legal towing requirements too. In the UK, a caravan is considered a “category BE vehicle” so you can tow one with a regular drivers licence, so long as the caravan’s maximum authorised mass (MAM) is 2,500kg or less.

“If you got your drivers' licence prior to January 1st, 1997, then you can legally tow a combined weight of 8,250kg.”

After storing a caravan away for the winter, road users must ensure it is in a safe and legal condition before setting off. 

Motorists who fail to follow the rules are likely to be caught out with substantial penalties likely to be applied. 

According to GOV.UK, road users can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and receive three penalty points for using a vehicle in a dangerous condition.

Meanwhile, they can be charged up to £1,000 and get three penalty points for transporting a vehicle without proper towing mirrors.

Steve Noga, caravan and motorhome expert at Auto Finance said: “Spring is the perfect time for a staycation, as nature is just starting to wake up from winter.

“The harsh winter weather can wreak havoc on any vehicle, especially when it hasn’t been used in months so it’s important to make necessary checks before heading on your caravan holiday.”