Three-fifths of touring caravan claims due to accidental damage
- Three-fifths of touring caravan claims due to accidental damage
- Insurer calls for improved safety awareness among caravan owners
According to claims data from Compass, a specialist provider of caravan and leisure insurance, three-fifths (60.5%) of touring caravan insurance claims result from accidental damage. As the UK’s staycation trend continues to thrive, drivers are being urged to take extra precautions when towing.
The most common accidental damage incidents include reversing mishaps, collisions with immovable objects, and difficulties manoeuvring in tight spaces. With thousands of caravan enthusiasts set to hit the roads over Easter, it’s vital to employ proper towing techniques to reduce the risk of costly accidents.
Kevin Minnear, Head of Underwriting at Compass, said: “The latest data indicates accidental damage claims typically arise from drivers struggling with visibility and alignment when reversing their caravan. Hitting curbs and posts from misjudging turn angles or road positioning can also result in costly damage.
“Swaying and instability at high speeds or in windy conditions can cause loss of control and lead to accidents. Plus, inexperienced drivers can find navigating caravan sites, service stations, and rest stops challenging, as well as have difficulty parking and manoeuvring.”
To help prevent avoidable accidents, Compass has outlined some essential towing safety tips for both new and seasoned caravan owners:
Check your towing weight and match: Make sure your tow vehicle is suitable for your caravan’s weight. A common guideline is the ‘85% rule’, meaning your caravan’s laden weight should not exceed 85% of your car’s kerb weight.
Balance your load: Properly distribute the weight inside your caravan to prevent instability. Place heavier items low and close to the axle for better control.
Practice reversing and manoeuvring: Take time to practice reversing techniques in an open space before heading off on a trip. Using a spotter or investing in a reversing camera can make a significant difference.
Adjust your driving style: Towing a caravan affects acceleration, braking, and cornering. Drive at a moderate speed, allow for longer braking distances, and be mindful of crosswinds.
Perform pre-journey safety checks: Before setting off, check tyre pressures, wheel nuts, lights, mirrors, and towing connections to avoid preventable mishaps.
Know your legal responsibilities: Ensure you hold the correct driving licence for towing and adhere to UK speed limits (60mph on motorways and dual carriageways, 50mph on single carriageways).
With accidental damage accounting for such a large proportion of claims, caravan owners are encouraged to invest in comprehensive insurance policies that cover a wide range of incidents. This is separate from car insurance, which will not cover damage to the caravan, as some people may assume.
Minnear continued: “Many caravan accidents are avoidable with the right precautions. We urge all caravan owners to familiarise themselves with safe towing practices and ensure their insurance provides adequate coverage. It’s worth noting that the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has accredited training courses for people wanting to improve their confidence when towing a caravan, with some insurers offering a discount upon successful completion.
“As more Britons embrace the freedom of caravanning, staying well-informed and prepared is key to avoiding unnecessary damage. Doing so will also ensure your insurance remains valid, while keeping your caravan – and other road users – safe.”
Sources
1. Data collected from touring caravan claims in the past 12 months (March 2024 to March 2025). Accidental damage includes the following causes of losses: Accidental damage, impact, vermin, and damage to caravan.
