Safe Towing Tips from Tow-N-Go Trailers
At Tow-N-Go Trailers, safety always comes first. Whether you’re hauling equipment, furniture, or weekend toys, following proper towing practices keeps you — and everyone else on the road — safe. Before you hit the road with your trailer, take a few minutes to review these essential safe towing tips.
1. Know Your Weight Limits
Before loading up, check your vehicle’s towing capacity and ensure your trailer and cargo fall within those limits. You can find this information in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
- Confirm maximum towing and tongue weights
- Make sure you’re using the right hitch for your setup
- Double-check that your truck and trailer combination doesn’t require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) — laws can differ depending on total weight
Always make sure your hitch is properly secured before pulling out.
2. Distribute Weight Evenly
Uneven loads can cause dangerous trailer sway. If you notice your trailer fishtailing, ease off the accelerator and check your load balance. Weight should be evenly distributed from side to side, with about 5–10% of the trailer’s total weight on the hitch. Adjust as needed before getting back on the road.
3. Check Your Lights and Connections
Connect your trailer’s brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights to your tow vehicle and verify that they’re working correctly. Faulty lighting is one of the most common causes of accidents — and it’s an easy fix to prevent.
4. Inspect and Inflate Tires
Good tires are critical for safe towing. Check that all tires — on both your vehicle and trailer — are properly inflated and in good condition. Look for cracks, uneven wear, or punctures, and replace any damaged tires before use.
5. Adjust Your Driving
Towing changes how your vehicle handles. It’s longer, heavier, and requires more time to stop. Accelerate gradually, avoid sudden maneuvers, and take your time getting up to speed.
6. Increase Stopping Distance
When towing, your stopping distance increases significantly. Maintain extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you, and watch traffic farther ahead to anticipate braking.
7. Stay Aware — Keep an Eye on Your Mirrors
Check your side mirrors frequently to ensure your trailer is tracking properly and your cargo remains secure. Constant awareness helps you spot potential issues before they become problems.
8. Use Safety Chains
Always attach safety chains between your trailer and vehicle. In the event of a hitch failure, chains can prevent complete separation and keep your trailer under control.
9. Chock Your Wheels When Unhitching
When parking or detaching your trailer, place wheel chocks in front of and behind the tires. This prevents the trailer from rolling and keeps the process safe and stable.
10. Make Wider Turns
Your trailer’s tires track closer to the inside of a turn than your tow vehicle’s. Give yourself extra room at corners and curves to avoid curbs, poles, and other obstacles.
11. Secure Your Load
A well-secured load is a safe load. Use strong tie-downs and straps rated for your cargo weight, and follow local tie-down regulations. A properly secured load prevents shifting, damage, and potential road hazards.
Final Check Before You Go
Take a few moments before every trip to double-check your connections, lights, and load security. A quick inspection can prevent costly mistakes and keep you safe on the road.
Tow-N-Go Trailers is here to make your towing experience as safe and easy as possible. From utility trailers to equipment haulers, we have the right trailer for every job.
👉 Ready to rent? Visit Tow-N-Go Trailers to browse available trailers and get rolling with confidence.