Driving in a Convoy is exciting and great fun, but there are certain rules that we should understand for easy movement of the Convoy and we also need to understand various parts of the convoy and the roles of each part.

A car convoy is generally made up of four parts:

• Lead Car
• Marshall
• Sweeper
• Members’ cars

Lead Car Role

1. The Lead will decide the convoy speed, movement, and stoppages. All cars need to respect lead car decisions. Lead Car adjusts speed at all times, remembering that the rear of the convoy may be a long way back. But depending on the distances expected speed would be maintained.
2. Lead Car will constantly view mirrors to ensure the convoy is not spacing out too far.
3. If a lot of traffic lights are encountered, it may be necessary to pull over somewhere safely to reform.
4. A generous use of indicators when changing direction.
5. Inform the group prior to departure of the destination and any stops (perhaps a map).

Sweeper Role

1. Keep visual contact with the Lead Car (if possible).
2. Use 2 way radios or mobiles to contact Lead Car if necessary.
3. When Lead Car indicates to pass, move over to prevent non-convoy cars interfering with the convoy. This also allows convoy to safely pass.
4. Contact Lead Car if the cars at the rear have to travel too fast to keep up.
5. Ensure no member car is left behind.

Marshall Role

1. Stay in the middle of the convoy.
2. May move out of position to group strayed vehicles.
3. Aid the convoy in crossing junctions.
4. Ensure convoy is in formation.
5. Move out the of the convoy on indication of the lead car and move ahead or fall behind as per the need.

Members’ cars Role

1. Do not overtake other member car unless of an emergency.
2. Watch the leader for overtaking (use indicators)
3. Maintain a safe distance from the car in front
4. Do not let the car in front get out of sight.
5. Flash your lights if in trouble.

It is very important during off road trips to follow these rules to ensure your trips going according as planned and smoothly for everybody involved.

1. Ensure you see the vehicle behind you. Don’t follow too close and maintain safe distance.
2. The vehicle should take turn one by one when ascending or descending hill or narrow corner.
3. The Trip Leader would guide or inform all team members from time to time on the route condition as a precautionary action.
4. Do not stop or park your vehicle on the middle of the hill, narrow corner, steep hill or route.
5. Do not leave your team member alone in the middle of off road trips.