| The ability to tow a trailer optimizes the utility of a | | | | space to stop, start and slow down. Accelerating and |
| vehicle, and even many types of cars can double as | | | | decelerating at a slow rate will give you optimal control, |
| tow vehicles when needed. Regardless of the size | | | | minimize wear and tear on the tow vehicle and reduce |
| and type of a tow vehicle, towing a trailer introduces | | | | the risk to other drivers on the road. Avoid sudden |
| new risks and calls for extra cautious driving. | | | | movements to protect your vehicle and prevent cargo |
| First, it is important to ensure that you are using the | | | | from shifting and affecting the weight distribution of the |
| appropriate equipment for your vehicle and the trailer | | | | load. |
| you will be towing. Though many cars can tow trailers, | | | | Towing a trailer on the road demands that you be alert |
| all cars cannot, and it is not enough to hitch up the | | | | and aware of your surroundings at all times. Check |
| trailer, load your cargo and hit the road. Consulting with | | | | mirrors frequently so that you are aware of vehicles |
| the owner's manual for your vehicle and staying within | | | | beside and behind you, and to inspect the trailer for |
| the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) | | | | problems. Keep the steering wheel gripped with both |
| specified for your vehicle is critical to safe towing. The | | | | hands to maintain optimal control because wind, |
| GCWR is the maximum allowable combined weight of | | | | crosswinds from passing vehicles and uneven road |
| the vehicle itself, passengers, trailer and cargo, and | | | | surfaces could cause your vehicle to jolt unexpectedly. |
| should never be exceeded. Your vehicle owner's | | | | Additionally, extra space should be allowed when |
| manual may specify a maximum trailer towing | | | | making maneuvers such as turns and lane changes. If |
| capacity, so be sure to read and follow all | | | | you are traveling with a trailer for an extended |
| recommendations before you load up. Additionally, | | | | distance, make frequent stops to perform a safety |
| adhere to weight and speed recommendations | | | | check on the cargo, hitch and tires of both the tow |
| provided in the trailer's owner manual or by the | | | | vehicle and trailer. |
| company from which you have rented the trailer. | | | | Because of the added weight, your vehicle will not |
| Once you have verified that all components of the | | | | react as quickly when it has a trailer in tow. Allow |
| trailer, hitch and vehicle are functioning and secure, and | | | | plenty of time to reach your destination when traveling |
| weight is distributed on the trailer according to | | | | with a trailer to avoid the temptation to speed or skip |
| manufacturer recommendations, you are ready to | | | | important safety checks. Adhering to all |
| begin your journey. Driving with a trailer in tow requires | | | | recommendations for your vehicle and trailer and |
| exercising more caution when stopping, accelerating, | | | | exercising utmost caution when driving with a trailer in |
| and maneuvering on the roadways. The first rule of | | | | tow will help ensure safe travel for both your |
| safe towing is to take it slowly. With the added weight | | | | passengers and other motorists on the road. |
| and length on your vehicle, you will need to allow more | | | | |