Overloading and/or improper weight distribution.
Improper or mis-coupling of the trailer to the hitch.
Improper braking and steering under sway conditions.
Not maintaining proper tire pressure.
Not keeping lug nuts tight.
IMPROPER SIZING OF THE TRAILER TO THE TOW VEHICLE
Trailers that weigh too much for the towing vehicle can cause stability problems,
which can lead to death or serious injury. Furthermore, the additional strain put on
the engine and drive-train may lead to serious tow vehicle maintenance problems.
For these reasons the maximum towing capacity of your towing vehicle should not
be exceeded. The towing capacity of your tow vehicle, in terms of maximum Gross
Trailer Weight (GTW) and maximum Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) can
be found in the tow vehicle Owner’s Manual.
! DANGER
Use of an under-rated hitch, ball or tow vehicle can result in loss
of control leading to death or serious injury.
Make certain your hitch and tow vehicle are rated for your trailer.
DRIVING TOO FAST
With ideal road conditions, the maximum recommended speed for safely towing a
trailer is 60 mph. If you drive too fast, the trailer is more likely to sway, thus
increasing the possibility for loss of control. Also your tires may overheat, thus
increasing the possibility of a blowout.
! WARNING
Driving too fast for conditions can result in loss of control and
cause death or serious injury.
Adjust speed down when towing trailer.
FAILURE TO ADJUST DRIVING BEHAVIOR WHEN TOWING A TRAILER
When towing a trailer, you will have decreased acceleration, increased stopping
distance, and increased turning radius (which means you must make wider turns to
keep from hitting curbs, vehicles, and anything else that is on the inside corner).
Furthermore the trailer will change the handling characteristics of your towing
vehicle, making it more sensitive to steering inputs and more likely to be pushed
around in windy conditions or when being passed by large vehicles. In addition,
you will need a longer distance to pass, due to slower acceleration and increased
length. With this in mind:
Be alert for slippery conditions. You are more likely to be affected by slippery
road surfaces when driving a tow vehicle with a trailer, than driving a tow
vehicle without a trailer.
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