Friday, September 27, 2013

Towing Safety For All Drivers

By Randy Craft


There are many circumstances under which one may find the need to haul another object with their vehicle. It may be a move to a new home, a camping trip, a day out in the boat or any of a myriad of reasons. Whatever the occasion, it is highly advised that one take the time to learn a little about towing safety.

Hauling definitely has its convenience factors, however it also has its share of hazards if one is not properly educated. Any driver attempting this needs to know at least the basics of issues such as spreading the weight evenly, parking correctly, passing, breaking and turning safely. Observing the rules and tips will keep everyone on the road much safer.

The very first thing to understand is the concept of weight distribution. Whether transporting objects or people in the PBL Floats, it is important to make sure side or axle is not burdened with too much of the load. Be sure to read and follow the restrictions for the particular type of hitch that is to be used to ensure that it will not disengage or break under the pressure.

Whenever possible, parking should be handled by two people. The driver holds the break while the other places blocks in front of the trailer's wheels if on a downgrade and behind them if on the up side. The vehicle should be placed in park if an automatic and in either first or reverse in a manual before the pedal is slowly released.

When changing lanes and passing, the rules are basically the same with some slight alterations such as giving the signal with more advance notice and making sure to allow for the extra length before merging back to the drive lane. This transaction should never be attempted on either an up or down steep grade. Leaving the full length of the total unit for every 10mph between the vehicle and the one in front will allow more stopping space.

The biggest risks of tipping or jackknifing are while taking corners. Sudden stops and quick moves are definitely things to avoid because they cause weight shifts that change the balance. Turns should be taken slowly, allowing more room on the inside so that the trailer's wheels have space to clear the curb.

Towing safety is a lot of common sense. One needs to be constantly aware of the extended length and extra weight trailing behind the vehicle to keep control. Minding and obeying the speed limits are important, especially in inclement weather.




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