Towing Safety Absolutely Critical

Let's face it, there's a good reason why there are so many SUV's and
pick-up trucks out there on the roads today—basically, we are towing
more than ever. Owners of jet-skis, motorcycles, pull-behind RV's,
boats—you name it—they all need to tow from time to time. While towing
is a relatively simple operation, safety must be used or it can become
dangerous or even deadly to other motorists on the road.

The proper use of safety chains is one way to ensure that the tow vehicle...

Let's face it, there's a good reason why there are so many SUV's and
pick-up trucks out there on the roads today—basically, we are towing
more than ever. Owners of jet-skis, motorcycles, pull-behind RV's,
boats—you name it—they all need to tow from time to time. While towing
is a relatively simple operation, safety must be used or it can become
dangerous or even deadly to other motorists on the road.

The proper use of safety chains is one way to ensure that the tow
vehicle never gets separated from the trailer. Of course, safety chains
are required by law so using them not only keeps everyone safe, it also
keeps you legal.

When using safety chains during towing, it is important that the chains
cross under the tongue of the trailer. If for any reason the trailer
were to become detached from the hitch, those chains will prevent the
trailer from falling to the ground and away from the tow vehicle. You
also want to be sure that your safety chains are loose enough for you to
be able to make turns while towing. Of course, you don't want them so
loose that they drag on the ground because that creates another major
towing hazard.

While towing, it is very important for the vehicles behind you to know
when you are braking, turning, or using your headlights. It is required
by law that any trailer have brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights
that work in unison with the lights on the tow vehicle. If they don't,
the people behind you may get confused or not be aware that you are
braking or turning and an accident is likely. Special wiring harnesses
are generally supplied with a trailer that should hook into the wiring
of the tow vehicle. If your trailer does not have such a wiring harness,
they may be purchased separately at most auto parts stores.

You also never want to be towing anything that exceeds the maximum tow
capacity of your vehicle. There are actually two very good reasons for
this. The first is that you will damage your vehicle's drive train when
towing trailers beyond the towing capacity. The second reason is related
to the first: should your drive train fail and you are towing something
up an incline—well, you get the picture!

Finally, be sure that whatever you happen to be towing is secured
properly. Shifting loads can cause severe handling problems while
towing. And in the worst case scenario, an unsecured load may simply
fall off and cause you real headaches while endangering motorists.

By following the simple safety tips listed above, you should safely
transport cargo from point A to point B without incident. Towing is a
relatively simple procedure but it should only be done when safety is
made priority one.