Missouri roads can be crowded and congested, and even the most experienced driver can find themselves in a car accident.
Maybe you’re preparing to embark on a family trip with a small trailer. Or perhaps you need to transport a large piece of construction equipment from one job site to another. Whatever your reason for towing a trailer, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to ensure your safety. Missouri roads can be crowded and congested, and even the most experienced driver can find themselves in a car accident. This article will consider some tips to help you avoid an accident when towing a trailer.
Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Properly Equipped for Towing
First, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped for towing. This means having the right hitch and wiring harness, as well as adequate brakes, tires, and suspension. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is up to the task, consult your owner’s manual or seek out a professional opinion.
Practice Common Maneuvers
Most people think towing is easy and pretty straightforward. After all, all you need to do is hook up the trailer, and away you go, right? Not exactly. Towing a trailer requires a bit more finesse than that. If you’re new to towing, it may be a good idea to practice common maneuvers in an empty parking lot or another safe area before taking your rig out on the road. This will help you feel your vehicle’s handling when it’s hitched up to a trailer. Pay special attention to how braking and turning feel – these things will be different than when you’re driving without a trailer. Once you feel confident with how your vehicle handles, you may decide to take it on the road.
Inspect Your Equipment Before Every Trip
Before heading out on any journey, take some time to inspect your vehicle and your hitch setup carefully. Ensure everything is properly secured and there are no loose wires or other potential hazards that could cause an accident. It’s also a good idea to test your lights (brake lights, turn signals, etc.) before hitting the road to ensure they’re working properly. By taking the time for these simple safety checks, you can help prevent accidents before they happen.
Drive Slowly and Carefully
Take your time when driving – there’s no need to hurry. Remember that it takes longer to brake when you’re hauling a trailer, so give yourself plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. Also, be mindful of sharp turns and sudden stop signs or traffic lights – again, because it takes longer to brake when you have a trailer attached, you want to give yourself plenty of time and space to slow down or stop completely if necessary.
St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a St. Louis towing accident and need help pursuing compensation, the experienced car accident attorneys at The Hoffman Law Firm can help you file your claim on time and collect the evidence you need to get the compensation you are legally entitled to. Give us a call 24/7 for a free case evaluation.