A startling 26% increase in fatal truck and trailer accidents in the US occurred from 2020 to 2021. Reasons for trailer accidents range from driver errors to environmental factors. However, some are caused by improperly secured cargo loads which is an oversight truck drivers must keep in mind.
Understanding key trailer safety areas could truly save lives on the road. This article outlines those critical points including equipment, driving, additional tips for hauling cargo securely from start to finish.
Key features for safe towing
These are some of the things that contribute to the overall trailer safety that you should consider at all times:
- Types of trailers
Trailers have become more specialized than ever before. These days, you see flatbeds, enclosed vans, lowboys, medical trailers, refrigerated trailers, dump trailers, and more roaming the highways. Each variety is uniquely designed to transport different kinds of loads safely. That means weight distribution methods, tie-downs, ramps, gates, and brake needs can vary between models.
- Essential equipment
But despite the above differences, most trailers share some fundamental features to meet basic safety regulations. Places providing trailer sales and parts in Chambersburg PA, for instance, can help equip and maintain those key systems properly, including:
- Hitch and coupler: When picking a hitch and coupler, first confirm the weight rating is adequate for the fully loaded trailer. Choose a ball diameter that fits precisely into the coupler to prevent too much play or tight friction while towing. The safety pin locks the ball in securely. As a backup, safety chains link the truck and trailer.
- Brakes: Electric or hydraulic surge brakes give valuable extra stopping power when the tow vehicle hits the brakes. To keep those systems in good shape, stay on top of brake fluid maintenance, line checks, wheel cylinders, and caliper servicing.
- Safety chains: Crisscross safety chains under the trailer tongue securely but with just enough slack to turn without binding. If that ball coupler connection ever releases, those chains will catch the trailer.
- Lighting and signals: Make sure all rear trailer lights; taillights, brake lights, turn signals, clearance markers, and reflectors, are fully functional. Other drivers rely on those to understand your rig’s next move. Before hitting the road, repair your taillights if they’re malfunctioning in any way, including not turning off or lighting up.
- Mirrors. Special extended mirrors eliminate blind spots around a wide trailer load. Keep them adjusted properly and the lenses clean and unobstructed for optimal visibility.
These essential equipment components play a vital role in ensuring the safety and functionality of trailers, allowing for worry-free hauling on the road.
- Vehicle suitability
The tow vehicle must have an adequate tow rating for the trailer’s total weight, which is the fully loaded Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). It must also be within the vehicle’s towing capacity. Its transmission, rear axle, alternator, and other components must also handle sustained highway speeds.
Best practices for safe towing
- Pre-trip inspections
Before departure, walk around and inspect the tires, wheel bearings, hitch, wiring, and brake function thoroughly. Confirm all lights, reflectors, breakaway switches, and jacks are in excellent condition. Identifying any issues before leaving prevents severe problems down the road.
Load and center heavier cargo low inside the trailer to improve stability. Use tie-downs, straps, blocks, and bunks to prevent load shifting, which can make handling tricky.
- Loading and weight distribution
Check the manual for proper tongue weight percentage over the axle(s)—usually 10-15 percent of the load. Improper distribution increases fishtailing risk. Secure the load to keep the center of gravity low and centered.
- Driving techniques
Drive smoothly by accelerating, braking, and steering carefully. Gradual maneuvers help prevent dangerous trailers from swaying on the road. Always leave extra stopping distance with the added weight at the back. Observe state speed limits for towing, usually 55 mph or under. Checking local regulations is wise since advisable top speeds can vary per state.
- Maintenance and care
Stay on top of maintenance checkups and upkeep. Monitoring tire pressure and lubricating wheel bearings prevents most breakdowns. Don’t overlook brake fluid flushes, frame sealant, and addressing wear and tear either. That diligence pays off in extended component life and avoiding issues mid-haul.
- Emergency procedures
If the sway starts up, carefully ease off the gas and minimize steering inputs. Let things stabilize on their own. For blowouts, hold the wheel steady once stopped, then brake very gently. Set out warning triangles a safe distance back, flip on flashers, and call for assistance. Don’t try to tackle brake problems, hitch failures, or axle damage yourself—have it professionally towed and repaired.
Regulations and laws on trailer towing
State regulations detail additional trailer lighting, reflector quantity and placement, maximum weight ratings, towing speed limits on certain roads, and necessary permits. Research your specific state’s towing laws thoroughly to stay legal and safe. Adding sway bars or a backup camera improves control, too. You’ll also benefit from flares, chocks, and other emergency essentials on the truck.
Making an effort to learn trailer safety fundamentals leads to secure cargo, confidence behind the wheel, and far less stress on the road. You protect not only yourself and your vehicle but other motorists and pedestrians from fatalities and legal battles concerning truck accidents.
Conclusion
Carefully inspecting the equipment, loading wisely, and driving defensively helps avoid so many accidents. It comes down to making safety the priority—for you and every driver sharing the road. Chat with the professionals at your local trailer shop to customize a heavy trailer or tow vehicle properly. Applying these safety guidelines takes so much risk and worry out of hauling.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
