Truckers Everywhere Are Applauding This Caravan Driver's Unexpected Move on the Highway – Find Out Why!

The open road in Australia can be a place of camaraderie and mutual respect among those who traverse its vast expanses. This was beautifully illustrated in a recent incident that has truckers and road safety advocates alike singing the praises of one considerate caravan driver. The simple yet impactful gesture not only made the day of a truck driver named Ben but also set a shining example for road users everywhere.


Ben was driving along a remote two-lane highway when he found himself behind a caravan. In a world where road rage and impatience are all too common, what happened next was a breath of fresh air. The caravan driver reached out to Ben via ultra high frequency (UHF) radio—a tool that's proving to be an unsung hero on the highways.


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Truck drivers commended a caravan driver for being considerate to trucks on the road. Image Credit: Pexels/Robert So


'Just let us know when you want to go and we'll back down OK,' the van driver's voice crackled through the radio, a clear invitation for Ben to overtake when safe. The truckie's response, 'Good on you mate, much appreciated,' was filled with genuine gratitude. After a brief wait for passing cars, the caravan slowed, allowing Ben to safely overtake. 'Good on you mate, you have a good day. Thanks very much for that,' Ben said, concluding the courteous exchange.


This moment of road etiquette was captured on video and has since gone viral, resonating with nearly two million viewers online. It's a prime example of how simple communication can enhance safety and cooperation on the road. 'Isn't life easier when road users just use common sense,' commented one viewer, while another emphasised the importance of UHF radios for caravanners, urging them to follow the considerate driver's lead.

The sentiment is echoed by experts like Gary Gardiner from Total Towing Setups, who 'highly recommends' the use of UHF radios on highways. He points out the dangers of a truck tailgating a caravan for long stretches, which could lead to risky overtaking manoeuvres. The ability to communicate can prevent such scenarios, ensuring both parties understand each other's intentions and can coordinate movements safely.

Gaye, a 70-year-old full-time traveller and remote worker, couldn't agree more. She considers a UHF radio and a personal locator beacon as the two essential items for caravanners. With a dedicated channel for caravanners and another for truck drivers, she often tunes into the truckers' channel, valuing their road knowledge. Gaye's own experiences highlight the practical benefits of UHF radios, from coordinating overtaking with truck drivers to being alerted about issues with her vehicle by fellow travellers.


The story of Ben and the thoughtful caravan driver is more than just a feel-good moment; it's a call to action for all road users to adopt a more considerate and communicative approach to driving. It's about recognising that, despite the solitary nature of long-distance travel, a sense of community can thrive on the open road.
Key Takeaways

  • A truck driver named Ben praised the behaviour of a caravan driver on an Australian highway for using UHF radio communication.
  • The caravan driver contacted Ben to coordinate a safe overtaking manoeuvre, which was appreciated and viewed as an example of good road etiquette.
  • Experts and experienced travellers recommend the use of UHF radios for better communication and safety on the roads, especially between caravanners and truck drivers.
  • There's a dedicated UHF radio channel for caravanners, but many prefer to stay on the truck drivers' channel for up-to-date information on road conditions.
At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand that many of our members are avid caravanners or have spent years behind the wheel. We encourage you to share your own experiences with road communication and how it has impacted your travels. Have you used a UHF radio on your journeys? What other tips do you have for fostering a safer and more cooperative driving environment? Let's continue the conversation and spread the word about the importance of good road manners and communication.
 

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My husband was a truck driver before he retired and he does this all the time when we are on the road. He has let the big road trains past while driving across the Nullabor and has let large and small trucks past on the highways. He always let them know that he will slow down when coming up to an overtaking lane to let them pass. It's not that hard and we are retired but the truckies are working so it makes sense really.
 
I fully support the use of UHF Radios while travelling in particular through known mobile dead spots, all I would add is that users become familiar with the channels reserved for emegency use and the repeater stations that use the channels that information is available on line and from where the Radios are purchased.
 
Travelling across the top end once, we were plagued with huge moths that spattered the windscreen. So tucked in behind a truck, informed him we were there and why, He said O.K. but watch out for any animals I might hit. Had a good conversation with him. We turned off at Broken Hill and he went on to W.A. Have used UHF on other occasions would not travel without one.
 
Many year's ago we would drive overnight to Adelaide. Most of the way was single lane highway. Back then truck drivers would put their right indicator on to let you it was safe to overtake them.
Some truckies still do that and when I have passed them safely, I 'waggle' the indicators in a gesture of thank you .... coppers don't seem to like that but I don't give a shit what they think 😉😊
 
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My husband was a truck driver before he retired and he does this all the time when we are on the road. He has let the big road trains past while driving across the Nullabor and has let large and small trucks past on the highways. He always let them know that he will slow down when coming up to an overtaking lane to let them pass. It's not that hard and we are retired but the truckies are working so it makes sense really.
My Husband and I would indicate that we would slow down when trucks came up behind us. Also on passing lanes, would flash break lights, show we would slow down, as well as indicating. Sometimes, if possible we would pull over at the top of a passing lane, so all drivers could pass. It`s a pity it is not taught when people buy caravans and motor homes. A lot speed up on passing lanes.
 
When my younger daughter was on L plates driving my Mazda 2 along the Bruce Highway north of Gympie, we were met by a f**kie tailgating and honking in a 100 kmh zone for over 10 kms. My girlfriend in the back seat had difficulty taking a photo of the number plate he was that close! The experience visibly upset her.

So we swapped drivers and it took over 50 kms until I caught him at a truck stop near Calliope. He shit himself when I pushed him up against his rig.

Duly reported to the trucking company but no feedback. Typical of an industry being infiltrated by overseas cowboys.
 
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When my younger daughter was on L plates driving my Mazda 2 along the Bruce Highway north of Gympie, we were met by a f**kie tailgating and honking in a 100 kmh zone for over 10 kms. My girlfriend in the back seat had difficulty taking a photo of the number plate he was that close! The experience visibly upset her.

So we swapped drivers and it took over 50 kms until I caught him at a truck stop near Calliope. He shit himself when I pushed him up against his rig.

Duly reported to the trucking company but no feedback. Typical of an industry being infiltrated by overseas cowboys.
Unfortunately there are Truckers and then the decent Truckers. Same as Caravaners, etc, And they are not all from overseas.
 
Some truckies still do that and when I pass have them safely, I 'waggle' the indicators in a gesture of thank you .... coppers don't seem to like that but I don't give a shit what they think 😉😊
The cops think you are alerting traffic going in the other direction
 
Unfortunately there are Truckers and then the decent Truckers. Same as Caravaners, etc, And they are not all from overseas.
Unfortunately there are some truckers that give the others a bad name. The "good" ones have a nickname for the "idiots that harrass other drivers or blatantly break the laws. They call them "cowboys"
 
This happens on Australian roads every day. There are great people out there doing the right thing, they just don’t get videos doing it. Pull over if you have traffic behind, understand that trucks will pass you only to have to slow down on the next incline. Stay safe and enjoy the journey
 
I have heard drivers of small trucks contact large trucks and ask them to move into the main lane and the small truck has waited
 

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