Why specialised mirrors are essential
Specialist towing mirrors are an absolute essential for safe, stress-free towing – here are some of the many models on the market
NO MATTER WHAT type of tow vehicle you drive, towing mirrors are an essential. This is because the law states that you must be able to see along the sides of the caravan and 4m either side, at a distance of 20m behind the driver.
In simple terms, from the driving seat, you must be able to see both rear corners of the caravan. In even more simple terms, if your caravan is wider than your tow car, you must use towing mirrors.
That is a legal requirement, and you could face a £1000 fine (per mirror) and three penalty points (per mirror) on your licence for failing to comply.
However, this is a question not just of legality, but also road safety. If you are unable to see the car following you ( possibly a bit too closely) which pulls out to overtake, and you pull out at the same time, there could be serious consequences. Using towing mirrors, you should already be aware that it’s there.
Here are four towing mirrors that you might like to consider when you’re ready to purchase your next set.
A Milenco Grand Aero Platinum
They’re not the cheapest ones around, but Milenco’s mirrors have a good reputation. They’re designed to fit the tapered bezels that you often see on modern cars, and can help to improve your fuel economy by reducing drag on the road.
Price £119.95 (Twinpack)
› www.towsure.com
B Towsure Rock Steady Towing Mirrors
This cheaper alternative from Towsure is a universal fit and comes with its own carry bag, to help keep the mirrors safe from damage when you have completed your journey. They fit either your vehicle’s nearside or offside mirrors.
Price £25 (pair)
› www.towsure.com
C Reich electric towing mirrors
Fed up with having to keep getting in and out of your tow car to adjust your towing mirrors? That’s where the Reich electric set comes in. They’re operated via remote control, so you can quickly and easily adjust them to your requirements, from the comfort of the driving seat. Price £148.24 (one mirror) › leisureshopdirect.com
D Maypole Towing Mirrors
Maypole Towing Mirrors from camping specialist Millets won’t break the bank. Like the Towsure version, these are a universal fit and – like all of the sets here – they meet industry standards showing that they are safe to use.
Price £25 (pair)
› www.millets.co.uk