Trailer Wrecks: How They Happen and How to Prevent Them

Every year, thousands of trailer-related accidents occur on highways and rural roads across the country. These wrecks can be devastating, leading to severe injuries, loss of livestock or cargo, and even fatalities. Many of these accidents are preventable with the right precautions, proper trailer maintenance, and safe driving habits. Whether you are towing a trailer or sharing the road with one, understanding the risks and how to minimize them can help keep everyone safer. 

Common Causes of Trailer Accidents 

Trailer wrecks can happen for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common causes include: 

Trailer Sway and Loss of Control 

One of the leading causes of trailer accidents is trailer sway, which occurs when the trailer begins to fishtail from side to side. This can happen due to high winds, improper weight distribution, or sudden steering adjustments. If the sway becomes uncontrollable, the trailer can tip over or pull the towing vehicle off the road. 

Overloading and Improper Weight Distribution 

Exceeding a trailer’s weight capacity or failing to distribute the load properly can make it unstable. When too much weight is placed at the back of the trailer, it increases the risk of swaying. If the weight is unevenly distributed, it can cause the trailer to pull to one side, making steering more difficult. 

Brake and Tire Failures 

Brakes and tires are critical safety components, and when they fail, the results can be disastrous. Worn-out brakes increase stopping distance, which is especially dangerous when hauling heavy loads. Tire blowouts can cause sudden loss of control, leading to rollovers or jackknifing. 

Hitch and Coupler Failures 

A trailer that detaches from the towing vehicle is one of the most dangerous scenarios on the road. If the hitch or coupler is not properly secured, the trailer can become unhitched, putting everyone nearby at risk. Safety chains are required as a backup, but they must be used correctly to be effective. Click here for tips on how to use trailer chains correctly. 

Speeding and Sudden Maneuvers 

Driving too fast with a trailer increases the chances of losing control, especially when taking turns or braking suddenly. Trailers do not stop as quickly as regular vehicles, and sudden maneuvers can lead to rollovers or jackknifing. 

Low Visibility and Poor Lighting 

A trailer that lacks proper lighting or reflectors is a serious hazard, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions. Other drivers may not see the trailer until it is too late, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. 

How to Prevent Trailer Accidents 

While trailer wrecks are serious, they can often be avoided with the right safety measures. Whether you are the one towing or just driving near a trailer, here are the best ways to reduce the risk of an accident. 

For Trailer Owners and Drivers: 

Properly loading and balancing the trailer is essential for stability. It is important to always follow the manufacturer’s weight capacity guidelines and keep about 60 percent of the load’s weight in the front half of the trailer. Securing cargo or livestock properly will help prevent shifting during transport, which can lead to instability. 

Checking tires and brakes before every trip can help avoid mechanical failures. Trailer tires should be inspected for wear, properly inflated, and monitored with a tire pressure monitoring system to detect issues early. The trailer brakes should be tested to ensure they are properly adjusted and functional before hitting the road. 

Using the right hitch and safety chains can prevent a trailer from detaching. The hitch and coupler should always be rated for the trailer’s weight, and safety chains should be crossed underneath the hitch to catch the trailer if it disconnects. A breakaway system should also be in place to activate the trailer brakes in the event of an unplanned detachment. 

Driving at safe speeds and avoiding sudden movements is critical for maintaining control. It is best to drive slower than normal, especially in windy or wet conditions. Avoiding sudden lane changes or sharp turns will help prevent trailer sway, and leaving extra stopping distance between vehicles can reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. 

Checking lights and reflectors before each trip will ensure proper visibility. Brake lights, turn signals, and reflectors should be working properly, and lights should be cleaned regularly to maintain brightness. If driving in low visibility conditions, using additional trailer lights can make a trailer easier for other drivers to see. 

For Other Drivers on the Road: 

Giving trailers extra space is one of the best ways to avoid accidents. Trailers need more time to stop, so cutting in front of them can be dangerous. Keeping a safe distance when driving behind a loaded trailer allows time to react if the trailer needs to brake suddenly. 

Being cautious when passing a trailer can help prevent collisions. It is best to only pass trailers when there is plenty of clear road ahead. Drivers should expect trailers to sway slightly in high winds or on uneven roads and passing quickly but safely can reduce the chance of an accident.

Watching for wide turns can prevent side collisions. Trailers, especially goosenecks, need extra room to turn. Driving too close to a turning trailer can result in getting sideswiped or forced off the road. 

Being aware of blind spots will help drivers stay visible to trailer operators. Large trailers have significant blind spots, and lingering in these areas can be dangerous. If a driver cannot see the trailer operator’s mirrors, they are likely in a blind spot and should adjust their position to be more visible. 

Final Thoughts 

Trailer wrecks happen every year, but many of them can be prevented with proper precautions and responsible driving. Trailer owners should ensure their equipment is in top condition, load their trailers correctly, and drive cautiously to avoid accidents. Other drivers on the road should also be aware of the challenges that come with towing and take extra care when driving near trailers. 

If you are looking for a trailer with the best safety features or need advice on safe towing practices, visit National Trailer Source. Our team of experts can help you find the safest and most reliable trailer for your needs. Being prepared and informed can make all the difference when it comes to preventing accidents on the road.