Church trips requiring one or more vehicles to blindly follow a lead bus, van, or car can be dangerous, even if the distance traveled is short. Caravan travel has contributed to a number of fatal collisions involving ministry vehicles. Taking the time to evaluate your church’s transportation patterns and implement basic safety measures can make your future group travels safer.
Several elements can play a major role in making caravan travel risky:
Common sense planning will keep caravan travel safer and less stressful:
Remove the fear factor. Provide the tools for drivers to stay in communication and on track if they become separated from the pack:
Use experienced drivers. Select drivers 21 or older who:
Prepare the lead driver. Other drivers will mirror the lead driver’s moves, so he or she must be mindful of the entire caravan when changing lanes, turning, entering intersections, and entering and exiting highways.
Assign navigators. Allow the drivers to focus on the road. Appoint an adult in each vehicle to manage the maps and monitor traffic, weather, and passengers.
Switch drivers every few hours. Give drivers a break to help them stay fresh. Breaks give them time to grab a nap, stretch their legs, or drink a cup of coffee.
Have a Plan B. Before leaving, all drivers should discuss and agree on:
Consider these alternative approaches to driving in a "train" of vehicles:
In the end, your objective is to come up with the best and safest plan that fits your ministry and the circumstances. These precautions can help you prevent unnecessary stress and potential accidents, leaving you free to enjoy your trip.
Thank you for your interest in Brotherhood Mutual. We appreciate the opportunity to provide your church or other ministry with an insurance quote and will reply to your request as soon as possible.
Text to follow...