Did you know that over 50,000 vehicular accidents every year are related to towing? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most of these accidents could have been avoided too. Stay safe on the road by learning the best towing safety tips for passing another vehicle.
How To Pass Properly When Towing a Trailer
Passing vehicles while towing a trailer sounds simple enough, but it can actually be pretty hard. Here are tips that can make it easier and safer:
Observe the Lane Markings
Some roads prohibit lane changes, so overtaking won’t be possible in every situation. When planning to pass another vehicle, you should check the lane markings first. If the line on the road is solid, then you’re not allowed to switch lanes. However, if the line is broken, then you can change lanes and overtake the vehicle in front of you.
Signal Early
When it comes to signaling, timing is key. It’s always important to never signal too early or too late. However, if you’re towing a trailer, it’s best to signal earlier than usual, so you can give other drivers enough time to react and give you space.
Overtake Only on Level Ground
Never, ever pass vehicles when you’re driving up an incline or down a steep descent. Not only are you less likely to see what’s ahead of you clearly, you’re also prone to accelerating at an unsafe speed. You may pass a vehicle when you’re back on level ground.
Use Your Mirrors
Always check your mirrors before switching lanes. A quick glance at your rearview and side mirrors will let you know whether the coast is clear or if another vehicle is already trying to overtake you.
Slowly Move the Steering Wheel
Moving the steering wheel too fast can cause trailer sway or fishtailing, which is when the trailer moves side to side behind the tow vehicle. Too much sway can eventually force you to lose control of your vehicle, causing you to jackknife and collide with another car.
As much as possible, avoid any abrupt movements with the steering wheel. Slowly turn the steering wheel, and ease into the passing lane.
Control Trailer Sway
In some cases, trailer sway is unavoidable. The wind buffeting from other vehicles and uneven roads can also cause your trailer to sway, and these are two things you can’t control.
Don’t panic. A little sway can be scary, but you can still recover from it as long as you stay calm and gradually slow down by releasing the accelerator. Don’t step on the brake, or you might end up making it worse. If the trailer sway gets worse, try using your trailer brakes to stop it.
Give Yourself Enough Room
It’s easy to forget just how much extra room you’ll need when you are towing a trailer, but it’s a mistake you don’t want to make when you’re overtaking. Always keep in mind the length of your trailer and how much room you’ll need when returning to your traffic lane.
Stay Alert
This one’s pretty obvious, but it’s often easier said than done. If you are towing a trailer behind your vehicle, you have to be extra careful. Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings, so you can react properly and on time.
Other Towing Safety Tips
Towing a trailer safely requires proper preparation. It can seem like a hassle, but we promise it’s all going to be worth it when you reach your destination safe and sound. Here are other towing safety tips to keep in mind:
Check How Much Weight Your Vehicle Can Tow
Towing a trailer that’s too heavy for your vehicle can strain your engine, transmission, and brakes. This puts you at greater risk of getting into an accident, so it’s best to always follow your manufacturer’s recommended trailer weight.
Make Sure the Trailer Is Secured
Before setting off, double-check if your trailer is properly hitched to your vehicle. The last thing you want is for your trailer to suddenly detach from your car.
Invest in Wheel Chocks
Wheel chocks are heavy-duty wedges that you place in front of or behind your trailer’s tires. This prevents your trailer from rolling away when you’re parked.
Get Towing Mirrors
If your trailer is wider than your vehicle, consider getting towing mirrors. Using regular side mirrors limits your visibility, making it hard to safely switch lanes. Eliminate blind spots by replacing them with towing mirrors.
Use Tow Chains
Also known as safety chains, tow chains can prevent your trailer from separating from your vehicle in case the hitch suddenly breaks. Make sure the chains have enough slack for turns but aren’t too loose that they drag on the ground.
Check Your Trailer Lights
Before you hit the road, make sure your trailer turn signals, brake lights, and other lights are all working. The electrical wire connected from the back of your vehicle to your trailer should also be in good condition.
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Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
