As summer ends, more and more Canadians are towing their trailers back from their camping sights. That means the roads are more crowded and there are more dangers and chances of being in an accident. Whether you are
towing a camper or a boat for a little vacation or are towing a trailer, safety should always be of top priority.
The use of correct towing trucks, hauling tools, and the right techniques are key to a safe towing process. Substandard equipment and unskilled tow drivers can lead to more accidents and property damage.
However, strict adherence to law and safety guidelines will lead you to a hassle-free towing experience. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to tow a trailer, the following tips will help you and make the job easier.
Take Your Time
Speed thrills but kills. Speed is one of the leading causes of road accidents. When you have a trailer on your back, you need to slow down more than your normal driving speed. Overspeeding can make your trailer sway and whip. Slow down if you find that the trailer is swaying, but never apply your brakes suddenly.
If you are driving down a slope, lower your gear and minimize your speed. Similarly, when going uphill lower the gear and switch on your flashers, and keep moving slowly. These cautious driving practices will minimize the chance of you getting into an accident.
Stay Within Capacity
Each vehicle has a specific towing capacity, never exceed your vehicle’s towing limit and the load restrictions of your trailer hitch. Exceeding these limits can cause various problems including;
- Handling difficulties
- Brake performance
- Damage to the engine
- Damage to the drive-train and suspension
To avoid any problems, make sure to include any extra cargo or passengers you are carrying when calculating the load.
Distribute The Load
Distribution of your cargo weight is as important for safety as staying within your maximum towing capacity. Unequal cargo distribution can pull your trailer or vehicle to a particular side and make steering difficult. This can also damage your vehicle and trailer hitch.
Make sure to pack your trailer in a way that the weight is equally distributed on both sides of the trailer. The general rule is to place 60% of weight in the front half of the trailer and tongue weight should not be more than 10-15%.
Inspect Your Trailer
Be sure to inspect your trailer before towing. Check your trailer’s lights, make sure it is tied correctly to the tow vehicle, check the connections manually. Ask someone to assist you in inspecting running lights, brake lights, hazard lights, and turn signals.
Maintain Your Trailer And Vehicle
Before hitting the road, make sure to inspect both your trailer and your vehicle and ensure they are performing correctly. Transmission, steering, front-line alignment, and your suspension all should be in proper working order. Moreover, check your tires for cold pressure and ensure that all your wheels are set at the correct pressure. It is advisable to increase the pressure of the rear tires of some tow vehicles, but don’t exceed the limit stamped on the tires.
Get The Right Equipment
If your vehicle doesn’t come with a built-in tow hitch, talk to a tow professional and get a hitch that is attached to the vehicle’s frame and not to the bumper. Make sure the hitch ball you buy is the same size as the couple on your trailer. Use strong safety chains to connect the trailer to the hitch. This will ensure that your hitch won’t dig into the pavement if your trailer becomes unhitched and causes significant damage.
Consider Two Mirrors
Trailer towing can significantly increase a vehicle’s blind spots. Making it difficult for drivers even in ideal situations. Adding two mirrors farther apart can provide a clear view of the entire length of the vehicle. This helps drivers to overcome any blind spots and decreases the chances of collision. These mirrors also make sure that you can see other vehicles and obstacles on the road. Therefore, the use of two mirrors should be the top consideration of every driver, towing a trailer.
About Us
Ontario Towing is a premium towing and roadside assistance company, providing services in Ottawa, Orleans, Kanata, Gloucester, and surrounding areas. Our exceptional services have enabled us to establish a satisfied customer base. If you are looking for a towing company that can tow your car, trailer or boat safely, or for any roadside assistance service,
contact us.
Ontario Towing, stationed in Ottawa, provides exemplary towing, car lockout, and roadside services. Their diverse suite, including mobile tire aid, gas delivery, and extensive towing options, supports Ottawa and its adjacent areas seamlessly.