Driving with a TrailerTowing a trailer requires a certain amount ofexperience. Get to know the rig before setting out forthe open road. Get acquainted with the feel of handlingand braking with the added weight of the trailer. Andalways keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving isnow longer and not as responsive as the vehicle is byitself.Before starting, check all trailer hitch parts andattachments, safety chains, electrical connectors,lamps, tires and mirror adjustments. If the trailer haselectric brakes, start the vehicle and trailer moving andthen apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be surethe brakes are working. This checks the electricalconnection at the same time.During the trip, check occasionally to be sure that theload is secure, and that the lamps and any trailerbrakes are still working.Following DistanceStay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead asyou would when driving the vehicle without a trailer.This can help to avoid situations that require heavybraking and 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 returning tothe lane.Backing UpHold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.Then, to move the trailer to the left, move that hand tothe left. To move the trailer to the right, move your handto 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 with thevehicle. The vehicle could be damaged. Avoidmaking 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.5-30InformationProvidedby:
