Trailer towing is very different from the normal driving everyone is used to. It requires a skilled driver and certain road safety regulations. It not only protects you but also other road users as well.Towing trailers is more likely stressful and requires one to get enough rest before embarking on a trip. What’s sad is that more than 20 per cent of road accidents involve towed trailers in the previous years.It is therefore important that the vehicle, trailer and cargo meet all the legal and safety regulations. Note that all countries and states have their own legal requirements. Here are some of the important factors in towing safety.
Vehicle, Trailer and Cargo compatibility
Most modern vehicles are lighter; best suited for normal motoring unlike vehicles from before therefore may not be suited for towing. Therefore, it isadvisable to use “tow truck” vehicles specifically made for that purpose only in the case of towing vehicles. Some have the flatbeds equipments with hydraulic tilting beds, dollies and winches while others have a specialized boom hitch instead, lifting one end of the vehicle and letting it to ride on its hind tires. Manufacturers usually include maximum weight capacity and other features in the vehicle manual which should be taken note of. Similarly, the trailers’ designs differ according to the type of material load they are to transport. Crushes and mechanical or structural damage to the vehicle can be avoided by understanding the limitations to the trailer as well as the vehicle.
How much Weight and Mass of Cargo can be towed
Tongue weight is the weight in which the trailer presses down on the hitch of the tow vehicle. If the weight is less it can cause the back and forth movement of the trailer. In turn, if the weight exceeds its capacity it can cause damage to the tow vehicle.Also braking becomes more dangerous with the added weight of a trailer when towing. In this case special brakes are needed. The tow bar capacity and coupling must equal the cargo weight of the trailer which is usually marked on it and the vehicle model it was designed for.
Safe Loading of Cargo in the Trailer
If the cargo is loaded wrongly to the trailer most likely it will swerve and become challenging to control.It is advisable to have the brakes fitted independently so that in the case of swaying they can be applied on the trailer gently while moving in a steady speed.Weight distribution can be achieved by placing small heavy items below and lighter large items at the top or placing items of the same weight at the front and behind the axle. Another option is to store them in the towing vehicle placing the heavy weight items in the front. After placing the cargo safely secure them by tying. For gas cylinders, ensure it is turned off. Make sure that the registration label, lights and number plate are visible at all times. There are systems that can detect the trailer swaying and stops it by breaking each wheel individually slowing the vehicle down.
Traffic Rules
When entering traffic, leave extra room for the length and width of the trailer. This is to allow it to cut in on curves and corners. Allow a safe distance to the vehicle ahead for stopping, even wider distance in the case of poor weather.On downhill travel or slopes it is important to engage low gear for both automatic and manual cars it releases the strain on brakes.It is possible to reverse if someone is watching the rear of the trailer, however, practice makes perfect. Extra mirrors can be installed on the trailer for a better view. Avoid overtaking as much as possible and do not cut off an overtaken vehicle when it’s returning.
Laws and Regulations
The laws on towing trailers differ in various countries. A license and trainingof the “tow truck” operators is a must have. In order to acquire one the vehicle and trailer must be road worthy. Some countries require special permits in order to operate in certain areas or roadways. There are towing regulations restricting the length, width, height and weight of the trailer in many city states.
Author Bio:- This piece has been written by Trice Jones. It highlights the safety regulations on the tow truck Brisbane.
