What is the effect of the cornering characteristics of a combination vehicle (car towing a caravan) when taking a turn?

When taking a turn, the cornering behavior of a combination vehicle, like a car towing a caravan, differs from that of a standard car.

The vehicle can jut out, meaning that as the towing vehicle turns, the trailer may swing outward into adjacent lanes or areas. This is crucial for drivers to recognize, as it can pose a risk to other road users.

Additionally, the vehicle can cut the corner, particularly when turning sharply. This means that the rear of the trailer might track inward more than the front of the towing vehicle, leading to potential collisions if other vehicles are nearby.

Understanding these cornering characteristics is essential for safe driving and adhering to regulations. It helps ensure the safety of all road users and prevents accidents, which is a key principle under German traffic laws. Proper awareness of these dynamics also highlights the importance of making wider turns and giving extra space when operating combination vehicles.