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Driving a motorhome can make even the most experienced of drivers nervous, but during poor weather it can be particularly challenging and even dangerous. Accidents can easily occur at such times and can be particularly costly if damage is sustained and you aren’t adequately covered by your motorhome insurance.

While it’s strongly advised that you shouldn’t drive in difficult weather conditions, sometimes it’s simply unavoidable. But what are the dangers and likelihood of your motorhome actually being blown over by the wind? And what can you do to prevent this?

Can motorhomes blow over?

Even on a very windy night on a campsite it might feel like your motorhome will blow over but (unless in very extreme circumstances) this is highly unlikely to happen.

Motorhomes are very heavy and have a relatively low centre of gravity. So, even though they’re high-sided the possibility of blowing over is very small indeed.

However, it’s a different matter when driving your motorhome in high winds. The high sides of your vehicle, coupled with your speed can mean huge forces at work on the motorhome – strong enough to tip you over.

While it’s best not to drive in high winds, before heading out always do the following:

• Check the weather forecast and reschedule if necessary.
• Replan your route to avoid dangerous areas.
• Set off early to allow for extra time – you’ll need to slow your speed to suit the conditions.
• Ensure all lights are clean and fully functioning – other drivers need more time to react in bad weather.
• Check you’re prepared if you need to pull off the road and wait if conditions worsen.
• Carry emergency equipment.
• Ensure your vehicle is well maintained and has had its service.
• Ensure your motorhome insurance policy is up to date – some policies include optional breakdown cover.

Tips for driving a motorhome in windy conditions

Driving in windy conditions is a challenge for anyone, particularly if you’re driving a large high-sided vehicle such as a motorhome.

While it’s best not to drive in high winds if you must drive then follow these useful driving tips:

• Stay tuned to traffic reports to keep up to date with road closures, you don’t want to get stuck in a queue of traffic after an accident.
• Drive slowly and steadily and try to avoid weaving through traffic.
• Be alert to the increased buffeting of your vehicle due to its large surface area. Handling and braking can be significantly affected by sudden gusts of wind.
• Grip the wheel firmly. If you’re suddenly buffeted your vehicle can be pushed sideways and you need to be ready to compensate. That said, if you grip too hard it will restrict your movement and may cause you to jerk the wheel.
• Reduce speed around bends and watch out for slow-moving vehicles or debris like fallen branches.
• Look ahead! Upcoming strong gusts can sometimes be spotted when vehicles in front are buffeted or if trees are swaying.
• Don’t be exposed. Take extra care over open ground or bridges as your vehicle is more susceptible to sudden gusts there.
• Pay attention to signage. Look out for signs that a bridge or road may be closed due to high winds. If so, stop or find a safe alternative route.
• Avoid narrow roads that are easily blocked by fallen trees or debris.
• Allow more room. Take extra care around cyclists and motorcyclists. While they’re unlikely to be out in very strong winds these road users are easily buffeted and can be blown into your path. Give them extra space when overtaking.
• Keep your distance. Whenever weather conditions are poor, keep extra distance between yourself and those in front.
• If you’re towing a trailer behind your motorhome then cancel your plans if gales are forecast. The bracket or tow bar connecting your motorhome to the trailer is a vulnerable pivot point. In strong winds, travelling more slowly is necessary to help prevent the trailer from jack-knifing or snaking from side to side.
• If in doubt, stop. Always remain open to the possibility that, if the wind increases beyond safe levels, taking a break from the journey to sit out the worst of the wind is a sensible option. After all, being late for a camping site booking or ferry departure is no big deal when compared to overturning on a busy road.

What to do if you’re stationary

If you decide to call it a day and park up to wait for the worst of the weather to pass, then try the following tips to minimise the buffeting you’ll suffer:

• Face the motorhome into the wind. The increased aerodynamics will help. If you’re at a campsite don’t forget to undo the electric hook up before manoeuvring.
• Close all windows and hatches. You don’t want the wind grabbing an open window and ripping it off.
• Lower aerials or satellite dishes and anything else on the roof that wouldn’t be up while driving. Streamlining the exterior will stop unnecessary damage.
• Don’t put up an awning. If you have one set up, take it down and put it away. Giving the wind something to catch hold of is not a good idea. You don’t need the expense and mess if it gets torn off.
• Put down stabilisers if you have them to help keep the motorhome more grounded.

Protect your vehicle with motorhome insurance

Holidays in a motorhome are fantastic whatever the Great British climate throws at you, but smart motorhome owners know that having sufficient.

Arranging cover through the dedicated team at Lancaster Insurance can provide you with a range of benefits including:

• 90 days EU cover and a 365-day option available for an additional premium
• New for old replacement available if vehicle is less than one year old
• Up to £1,000 audio cover
• Windscreen cover
• Personal effects cover up to £5,000
• Up to £2,500 cover for awnings, gas bottles, generators and camping equipment
• Optional breakdown cover from £49.95

Get in touch with Lancaster Insurance today and protect your beloved motorhome, whatever the weather.

Policy benefits, features and discounts offered may very between insurance schemes or cover selected and are subject to underwriting criteria. Information contained within this article is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.