Towing seems simple? just hook the trailer, car, or other items to the vehicle and go.
But real safety ? and even legal ? concerns can result from improper towing.
“One thing you?ll often see on the highway is someone towing a tiny trailer with little wheels,” said Ed Kriston, approved automotive repair specialist in the Towson Office of AAA Mid-Atlantic, headquartered in Wilmington, Del. “Maryland law says anyone towing a trailer can?t exceed 65 mph or they can face some steep fines.”
Ensure your towing is safe by employing these tips from auto safety experts including Kriston and his AAA colleague Jeffrey Boone.
» Don?t assume any tow vehicle will work. Determine the maximum weight you will carry. Then talk to the dealer about what can be towed. For example, Suzuki?s 2006 Grand Vitara can tow up to 3,000 pounds.
» Practice steering before taking to the open road. A large empty parking lot is a great place to become comfortable with the steering.
» When practicing, make sure the trailer does not sway by gradually increasing the vehicle?s speed. If sway occurs, try adjusting the load and repeat the test. If the trailer still sways, speak to a dealer about sway control equipment.
» Remember that an empty trailer will impact the vehicle differently than a full trailer. For example, when an empty trailer hits a bump, it will bounce. The resulting sway can cause drivers? to lose control of vehicles.
» Watch how you load a trailer. Remember to put 10 percent more weight in front of the axle rather than behind it. Otherwise, the trailer could flip over.
» Take extra care with heavy loads. Maryland requires trailers that carry more than 3,000 pounds to include braking systems and brake lights. Consider a weight distributing hitch for extra large loads, as it will make the ride more stable and safer.
» Don?t skimp on trailers. Some towing accessories can cause real danger especially with large loads. Talk to a dealer and others before you buy.
