RV FEATURE
However , it ’ s worth pointing out that should this regime be instituted in Australia , it would barely affect any of us , since a ) most of us would not drive a rig with a combined weight of 8250kg , and b ) 3500kg is the maximum that most of us would typically tow anyway .
Previously in the UK , drivers who received their licence after January 1 , 1997 , could only tow up to 750kg MAM without further training and testing – a much stricter system . However , the law was recently changed to allow up to 3500kg MAM .
AM I IN FAVOUR OF TOWING LICENCES ?
The short answer is no . Despite the arguments above – which I do think are valid – I do not believe that mandating a licence or endorsement for towing a caravan is a good idea .
First , it would add a layer of red tape that we could all do without . Presumably , such a licence would require you to undergo a caravan towing course by an accredited training facility . But these facilities are not available in every corner of the country , where people live and want to hitch up and head off on holiday . Would they be expected to fly to a major city just for the purpose of passing a towing course ?
On the subject of towing courses , I think they are a fantastic idea for people who genuinely want to improve their skills and safety , and we should all consider taking such a course , even if it ’ s just to refresh our knowledge . But I don ’ t necessarily believe they would benefit someone who is only there to ‘ tick a box ’.
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