There is more to towing safety than the hitch and trailer rating

The trailer might be too heavy for the tow vehicle or it is likely that you are exceeding the weight ratings of the tow vehicle. Both ways it adds to the danger. Did you know that any weight you add to the tow vehicle takes that same amount of weight off of the tow vehicle rating? And this includes the weight of co passengers sitting with you in the tow vehicle.

It could be that the hitch which is not adjusted properly. Only after you are sure that the hitch is properly secured in the hitch, the coupler is properly latched to ball and the trailer is in level position (Read user’s guide), you can have a hassel free towing.

But if you take all the pre-departure safety checks before you start towing, follow correct towing speeds and know how to make turns etc. there is nothing which can stop you from enjoying your trailer towing trip down the road.

Follow the following instructions carefully and enjoy your towing!

Loading your trailer
Safety on the road
Sticking to limits

Always remember to load 60% of your cargo’s weight in the front of the trailer. This will put approximately 10% of the loaded trailer weight on the hitch. Check hitch weight otherwise the trailer will not tow properly. It could be unstable, difficult to control, and make towing unsafe.

Securing the load

Motorcycles, cars and whatever cargo you want to tow should be fully secured inside your trailer. If you want you can get E-tracks and a variety of tie-down rings installed for securing your cargo properly.

Remember that your trailer must be hooked to the tow vehicle when loading or unloading a car or heavy item from the rear. Check tie-downs regularly for cracks or damage that may weaken them or cause them to fail.

Proper speeds

Moderate to slower driving speeds put less strain on your tow vehicle and trailer and make for safer traveling.

Check rear view mirrors

Check the rear view mirrors frequently; it will help you to ride your trailer properly. It is better to have outside rear view mirrors on both sides of your tow vehicle.

Making Turns

You need to make wider swings (turns) at curves and corners because your trailer’s wheels are generally closer to the inside of a turn than the wheels on your tow vehicle. Place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel, while watching in your rear view mirror move your hand to the right, if you want the rear of the trailer to go to the right. And if you want the rear of the trailer to go to the left, move your hand to the left.

Because the trailer does not follow the exact path as the vehicle on turns, remember to swing out wider when traveling around bends and corners.

When making turns, be aware the trailer will turn quicker than a tow vehicle. Allow extra turning space so that the trailer wheels don’t jump over a curb, hit a soft shoulder, road sign or tree. Your axle and/or tire and rim can be severely damaged as a result of hitting the curb.

Slowing Down

To assist in slowing down, many people use an electric brake controller. Extra length of your trailer can cause problems on turns. So you have to be extra carefull while slowing down.

Getting into your lane

It takes more time and distance to get around a slower vehicle and return to the correct lane when you’ve got a trailer in tow.

Adjustment to the passing vehicles

To avoid swaying, be prepared for sudden changes in air pressure and wind buffeting when larger vehicles pass from either direction. Slow down a bit and keep a firm hold on your steering wheel. Aim straight down your lane.

Reduce Consumption

When traveling over large hills or down gravel roads, use a lower gear to ease transmission and engine operation. Shifting out of overdrive and into a lower gear may also improve vehicle gas mileage. Transmission coolers also greatly reduce the consumption.

Dealing with sudden bumping and swaying

If you encounter sudden bumping, it may be indicative of a flat tire. Don’t jam on the brakes or mash the accelerator in an attempt to drive out of it. Instead, come to a stop slowly while driving in as straight a line as much as possible.

If for some reason (a gust of wind, a downgrade, a pass by a larger vehicle, etc.) the trailer does begin to sway, the driver needs to assess the situation to determine the proper course of action. Take control over the situation by gradually reducing the speed and steadying the wheel. Apply the brakes only on the trailer.

Take precautions not to slam on brakes and increase the speed. The increase in speed can cause more swaying. Stop towing the trailer if it is constantly swaying.

If you encounter swaying quite often, getting a sway controller installed is a good idea.

Trailer backing

Backing a trailer into tight places is easier than it looks, but it does take some practice. It's best to practice in a parking lot and in a vehicle that allows you to see the trailer through the rear window. Vans, trucks and campers that have obstructed rear views require more practice and the use of side mirrors. In either case, be patient, and make steering adjustments slowly and a little at a time.

Checking the working of the light

The trailer's electrical components are subjected to a great deal of adverse conditions, so check them periodically. Ask someone to step behind the trailer to make sure tail lights, brake lights and turn signals are working properly. If signals are dim, perhaps there is a bad connection or you need a more powerful flasher unit on the tow vehicle. An occasional shot of WD-40 into the pig tail wiring connector will reduce corrosion.

Remember that the tow vehicle has the power to pull a loaded trailer down the road, it cannot haul it up steep hill. The trailer brakes are also incapable of holding it on a steep incline. Follow manufacturers' towing guidelines and never exceed tow limits. Too much trailer weight can cause an accident, or pull the tow vehicle down a steep incline.

These tips we hope will help you have a hassle free enjoyable towing experience. Enjoy!