By Laurie Finlay
A couple of years ago I wrote a “ Trip Planning for Extended Trips ” article on how I plan an extended trip . This one is about some of the things I have noticed about roads and tracks while driving in the more remote parts and the techniques I use . It has taken the Corona Virus and lockdown to motivate me . It is not meant to be a “ discussion paper ” but just some of the things I have noticed . Most of it is obvious and I ’ m sure some of you will disagree with me , but here it goes anyway .
Bitumen Highways
As I have got older , I have slowed down somewhat , and also now tow a small caravan for most trips . I usually drive under the speed limit , which means travelling slower than the trucks and keeping to the left and an eye on the rear vision mirror . If we are in a section of hilly country I speed up to keep out of the way of the trucks . I don ’ t like to hold the trucks up as most have a schedule to keep . Also I don ’ t like a build-up of traffic behind me so , if this happens I will pull over , when safe to do so , and let them pass .
On interstate roads , if l follow a semitrailer / road train out of a rest stop or “ servo ” I stay behind them till they get up to speed as they will only have to pass you a bit further on when they get up to their speed .