Driving with a TrailerTowing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.Get to know the rig before setting out for the open road.Get acquainted with the feel of handling and braking withthe added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mindthat the vehicle you are driving is now longer and not asresponsive as the vehicle is by itself.Before starting, check all trailer hitch parts andattachments, safety chains, electrical connectors, lamps,tires and mirror adjustments. If the trailer has electricbrakes, start the vehicle and trailer moving and thenapply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure thebrakes are working. This checks the electrical connectionat the same time.During the trip, check occasionally to be sure that theload is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakesare still working.Following DistanceStay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead asyou would when driving the vehicle without a trailer. Thiscan help to avoid situations that require heavy brakingand sudden turns.PassingMore passing distance is needed when towing a trailer.Because the rig is longer, it is necessary to go muchfarther beyond the passed vehicle before returningto the lane.Backing UpHold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.Then, to move the trailer to the left, move that handto the left. To move the trailer to the right, move yourhand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible,have someone guide you.Making TurnsNotice: Making very sharp turns while traileringcould cause the trailer to come in contact withthe vehicle. The vehicle could be damaged.Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering.When turning with a trailer, make wider turns thannormal. Do this so the trailer will not strike softshoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects.Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well inadvance.4-32
