Whenever you are pulling a trailer behind your vehicle, you are going to need to drive differently than you ever would otherwise. It is important that you understand what you need to change about your driving habits anytime you hook up a trailer to tow in anywhere. Longhorn Motors & Trailer Sales, Inc. is here to share some safety tips to make sure you are prepared to safely tow your trailer.
Give Yourself Time to Stop when Pulling a Trailer
Stopping can be tricky when you are towing a trailer. You are going to need more room to stop and will need to slow down. You need to avoid pumping your brakes and simply press the brake pedal down smooth and slow. If you brake too quickly, it can cause the trailer to jackknife if your vehicle sways too much. You will also need more time to accelerate to normal cruising speeds as well.
Are Trailer Tow Mirrors Worth It?
While most drivers are used to using their mirrors when they are driving their vehicle, when you are towing a trailer behind, you are going to use them much more. Tow mirrors that extend outward further than a standard truck mirror are a great idea as they dramatically increase the driver’s rearward vision. This is the best way to make sure your trailer is still secure behind your vehicle. You should also make sure your safety chains are not dragging on the road during travel as well. The sparks that can happen when they drag can cause wildfires in drier places.
Careful Turning when Towing a Trailer
Turning is also something that will feel completely different when you are towing a trailer. Trailers have a tight turning radii and if you turn too tight, they will more than likely run over the curb. You should drive past the place you are planning to turn and brake sooner than you would normally brake for the turn as well. Taking the turn wider will help you make it safely without causing any damage to your trailer or its tires.
Use Lower Gears when Going Up & Down a Hill while Towing a Trailer
When you are driving on hills, make sure you take advantage of shifting into lower gears. When you are going downhill, it can be helpful to shift into a lower gear so that you don’t have to ride your brakes so much. With the added weight, it can be hard on your brakes. Anytime you are driving uphill, you are going to need the extra torque to get up the hill and should also downshift to get the power you need.
Keep Engine Cool While Towing
The vehicle’s engine has a higher likelihood of overheating when you are pulling a trailer. You should always be aware of and paying attention to your vehicle’s temperature gauge so that you know if your vehicle is getting too hot.
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