Trailer Safety Features You Shouldn't Overlook
When you're towing a trailer, safety should be your top priority. Beyond protecting you, your passengers, and your cargo, following best practices and leveraging the right safety features ensures smoother and stress-free trips. While most people focus on the towing vehicle, it’s equally important to ensure your trailer is equipped with safety measures.
Here’s a detailed look at often-overlooked trailer safety features that can make a difference on the road:
1. Trailer Brakes
One of the most important safety features on a trailer is its braking system. Some trailers are equipped with their own brakes, while others rely entirely on the towing vehicle’s braking system.
Why They Matter: Trailer brakes are especially important for heavier loads, helping to control speed and minimize the risk of sway during sudden stops or downhill driving. They also reduce strain on your towing vehicle’s brakes, extending their lifespan.
Types of Trailer Brakes:
· Electric Brakes: Require a brake controller in the towing vehicle.
· Hydraulic Brakes: Activate automatically when the towing vehicle slows.
Pro Tip: Regularly inspect your trailer’s braking system and ensure the brake controller is properly calibrated before every trip.
2. Safety Chains
Safety chains are a non-negotiable component of any towing setup. They serve as a backup connection between the trailer and the towing vehicle in case the hitch fails.
How to Use Them Correctly:
· Always cross the chains under the trailer tongue. This creates a cradle effect to catch the tongue if it detaches.
· Ensure chains are appropriately sized for the weight of your trailer.
· Keep the chains taut, but allow enough slack for turns.
Pro Tip: Inspect chains for rust, wear, or damage before every trip. Replace them if you notice weak links or excessive wear.
3. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Tires are one of the most vulnerable components of your trailer, and improper tire pressure is a leading cause of blowouts.
Why It’s Essential: Underinflated tires generate excess heat, while overinflated tires are prone to bursting. Both situations can lead to accidents. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerts you to any changes in tire pressure, giving you peace of mind.
Don’t Have TPMS? If your trailer isn’t equipped with TPMS, invest in a handheld tire pressure gauge. Always manually check your tire pressure before and during trips, especially for long hauls.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check the trailer’s tire treads for uneven wear, as this can indicate alignment issues or improper inflation.
4. Reflective Tape and Lighting
Visibility is crucial, especially when towing a trailer in low-light conditions, during storms, or at night. Adequate lighting and reflective materials can prevent accidents by ensuring other drivers see your trailer clearly.
Key Features to Check:
· Brake lights, turn signals, and running lights must be functional and bright.
· Reflective tape or stickers should be applied to the sides and rear of the trailer.
Pro Tip: Clean lights and reflective surfaces regularly to remove dirt and grime that could reduce visibility. Carry spare bulbs and fuses for quick replacements.
5. Breakaway System
A breakaway system automatically engages the trailer’s brakes if it becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle. This system is often required by law for trailers exceeding a certain weight limit.
Why You Need It: In the rare but dangerous event of trailer detachment, a breakaway system can prevent catastrophic accidents by bringing the trailer to a controlled stop.
Pro Tip: Test your breakaway system periodically and ensure its battery is fully charged.
6. Spare Tire and Tools
Imagine being stranded on the side of the road because of a flat tire and no spare to replace it. Be sure to carry a spare tire and the tools needed to change it.
What You’ll Need:
· A properly inflated spare tire.
· A heavy-duty jack compatible with your trailer’s weight and ground clearance.
· A lug wrench or tire iron suited for your trailer’s wheel nuts.
Pro Tip: Include wheel chocks in your kit to secure the trailer while changing a tire.
Regular Maintenance is Key
Towing safely isn’t just about checking off a list of features—it’s about commitment to regular inspections and maintenance. Schedule routine professional checks for your trailer and ensure all safety features are functioning optimally.
When You Invest in Safety, You Invest in Peace of Mind A little preparation goes a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring you arrive at your destination without worry. Take the time to inspect, maintain, and upgrade your trailer’s safety features—it’s a small price to pay for safe and enjoyable travels.