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Driving
with
a Trailer
Towing
a
trailer requires a certain amount
of
experience. Before setting out
for the open road, you’ll want
to
get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself
with the feel
of
handling and braking with the added weight
of
the trailer.
And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good
deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments),
safety chains, electrical connector, lights, tires and mirror adjustment.
If
the
trailer has electric brakes, start
your
vehicle and trailer moving and then
apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working.
This lets
you
check your electrical connection at
the
same time.
During your trip, check occasionally
to
be sure that
the
load
is
secure, and
that the lights and any trailer brakes are still working.
Following
Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as
you
would when
driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that
require heavy braking and sudden turns.
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