Safe Towing Practices

The ability to tow a trailer optimizes the utility of a vehicle, and even many types of cars can double as tow vehicles when needed. Regardless of the size and type of a tow vehicle, towing a trailer introduces new risks and calls for extra cautious driving.

First, it is important to ensure that you are using the appropriate equipment for your vehicle and the trailer you will be towing. Though many cars can tow trailers, all cars cannot, and it is not enough to hitch up the trailer, load your cargo and hit the road. Consulting with the owner’s manual for your vehicle and staying within the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for your vehicle is critical to safe towing. The GCWR is the maximum allowable combined weight of the vehicle itself, passengers, trailer and cargo, and should never be exceeded. Your vehicle owner’s manual may specify a maximum trailer towing capacity, so be sure to read and follow all recommendations before you load up. Additionally, adhere to weight and speed recommendations provided in the trailer’s owner manual or by the company from which you have rented the trailer.

Once you have verified that all components of the trailer, hitch and vehicle are functioning and secure, and weight is distributed on the trailer according to manufacturer recommendations, you are ready to begin your journey. Driving with a trailer in tow requires exercising more caution when stopping, accelerating, and maneuvering on the roadways. The first rule of safe towing is to take it slowly. With the added weight and length on your vehicle, you will need to allow more space to stop, start and slow down. Accelerating and decelerating at a slow rate will give you optimal control, minimize wear and tear on the tow vehicle and reduce the risk to other drivers on the road. Avoid sudden movements to protect your vehicle and prevent cargo from shifting and affecting the weight distribution of the load.

Towing a trailer on the road demands that you be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Check mirrors frequently so that you are aware of vehicles beside and behind you, and to inspect the trailer for problems. Keep the steering wheel gripped with both hands to maintain optimal control because wind, crosswinds from passing vehicles and uneven road surfaces could cause your vehicle to jolt unexpectedly. Additionally, extra space should be allowed when making maneuvers such as turns and lane changes. If you are traveling with a trailer for an extended distance, make frequent stops to perform a safety check on the cargo, hitch and tires of both the tow vehicle and trailer.

Because of the added weight, your vehicle will not react as quickly when it has a trailer in tow. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination when traveling with a trailer to avoid the temptation to speed or skip important safety checks. Adhering to all recommendations for your vehicle and trailer and exercising utmost caution when driving with a trailer in tow will help ensure safe travel for both your passengers and other motorists on the road.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.