Caravan Towing Mirrors

This means that if the caravan significantly obstructs the driver’s rearward visibility, additional mirrors, commonly known as towing mirrors or caravan mirrors, must be fitted to provide the necessary field of vision.

To further simplify this, your mirrors should be wider than what you are towing.

The above diagram shows the difference between using towing mirrors and standard mirrors. Without the towing mirrors there is a large blind area.

Towing mirrors come in various designs to accommodate different vehicles and towing setups. The two primary types are:

• Clip-On Mirrors: These mirrors attach securely to the existing side mirrors of the towing vehicle, extending their reach to provide a wider field of view. Clip-on mirrors are adjustable and easy to install and remove, making them a convenient option for occasional towing.
• Replacement Mirrors: Replacement mirrors are larger, towing-specific mirrors that replace the vehicle’s original side mirrors. They offer superior visibility and stability, often featuring telescopic arms and adjustable glass angles for optimal positioning. While more expensive than clip-on options, replacement mirrors provide enhanced performance, particularly for frequent towing.

Using properly fitted towing mirrors enhances safety on the road in several ways:

• Improved Visibility: Towing mirrors offer an extended field of view, allowing drivers to monitor the road behind and alongside the caravan, enabling safe manoeuvring, lane changes, and overtaking.
• Reduced Blind Spots: By eliminating blind spots created by the caravan, towing mirrors help drivers make informed decisions and avoid potential hazards, such as other vehicles or obstacles.
• Compliance with Regulations: Ensuring the installation of towing mirrors not only enhances safety but also ensures compliance with legal requirements, minimising the risk of fines or penalties.

Remember to only have your mirrors extended when towing. There are ‘over-dimensional’ laws which are taken from Australian Design Rules that state nothing is permitted to protrude more than 150mm from the side of a vehicle. When towing, the widest part of the caravan or camper trailer is deemed to be the side of the vehicle. Therefore, when your caravan or camper trailer is detached, you must fold in or remove your towing mirrors to avoid hefty fines.

Caravan towing mirrors are essential accessories for safe and legal caravanning in Australia. By providing drivers with the necessary visibility and awareness of their surroundings, these mirrors play a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring the wellbeing of all road users. Caravan owners must prioritise safety by equipping their vehicles with compliant towing mirrors and conducting regular checks to maintain optimal visibility during their travels. With a commitment to safety and compliance, every journey can be a memorable and worry-free adventure.