⚠️Rule #1: Safety comes first

A drive is not a race. The point is to enjoy the road and the crew — not to set records or take risks. Every driver should ride at their own pace, within their limits and their car's limits.

Safe following distance

The gap between cars is THE critical factor for convoy safety. Too tight = chain-reaction risk. Too spread out = the group falls apart.

The 2-second minimum rule

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How to measure: The car ahead passes a landmark (sign, tree). Count "one-Mississippi, two-Mississippi." You should pass that landmark after you finish counting.

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In the rain: Double the gap (4 seconds minimum)

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In mountains/curves: Adjust based on visibility

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At high speed: Increase gradually (3–4 seconds at 130 km/h)

Signals and communication

Communication is key to keeping the group together and flagging hazards. Combine visual signals with radio/app comms.

Visual signals

•Extended left indicator: Hazard/obstacle on the left
•Extended right indicator: Hazard/obstacle on the right
•Hazard lights: Sudden slowdown or emergency stop
•Arm out the window: Stopping soon
•Flash headlights: Caution/danger (use sparingly)

Radio/app communication

•"Speed camera" : Warn about an upcoming camera
•"Road hazard" : Pothole, gravel, animal
•"Slowdown" : Traffic jam or dense traffic
•"Next stop" : Gas/photo break
•"All clear" : Group OK confirmation

With Drive Crew: Send alerts in 1 tap (camera, hazard, slowdown). Every car nearby is notified instantly — hands stay on the wheel.

Convoy roles

Lead car (leader)

Sets the pace, warns about hazards, manages stops.

Navigation, pace, stop decisions, group communication

Sweep car (sweeper)

Brings up the rear, makes sure nobody is left behind, handles surprises.

Rear watch, breakdown assistance, "everyone's following" confirmation

2-N

Middle drivers

Follow the route, maintain spacing, relay alerts.

Keep safe distance, relay signals, match pace

Handling separation

Even with the best planning, one or more cars can get separated (red light, lost visual contact, navigation error).

Separation protocol

1.
Don't panic — Slow down, stay safe — don't push to catch up
2.
Notify the group — "I'm separated, heading to the next stop"
3.
Use GPS/route — Follow the GPX track to rejoin the group
4.
Meet at the next stop — The group waits at the next scheduled stop (defined in the briefing)
5.
Sweep car confirms — They verify everyone has rejoined

With Drive Crew: Real-time tracking lets you see instantly who's separated and where they are. No guessing, no worrying.

Traffic laws and courtesy

!Speed limits: Absolute compliance, even in a group. One ticket can ruin the drive.
!Overtaking: Only when legal and safe. Never force a pass to "stay with the group."
!Other road users: Motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, tractors — let them through. We're not in a hurry.
!Noise: Avoid loud revving in towns and residential areas. Respect the locals.
!Parking: Don't block roads or lots. Be a model of courtesy at every stop.

Pre-departure safety checklist

Safety briefing done with all drivers
Lead car and sweep car assigned
Safe following distance explained (2-second rule)
Visual signals and comms defined
Separation protocol explained (rally points)
Emergency numbers shared
Vehicles checked (fluids, tires, brakes)
Weather checked + road conditions