According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, passenger vehicle trailer-towing accidents are prominent. During 2023, more than 69,000 passenger vehicle trailer-towing crashes are estimated to have resulted in 500 fatalities and 25,000 nonfatal injuries with Tennessee having the fifth highest number of fatalities at 19.
Severe crashes typically involved preventable mechanical and operational failures, such as trailer detachment, safety chain failure, trailer sway, and improper loading. Operating a vehicle that is towing a trailer requires extra caution. Whether towing a boat, utility trailer, or equipment trailer, consider the following safety tips:
- General Tips: Refer to your vehicle and trailer manufacturer instructions. Understand the capacity of the towing vehicle and select the right trailer. Practice with the equipment and be prepared. You should be focused and limit distractions. Maintain extra travel distance and proactively look for hazards.
- Hitching, Loading, and Cargo Securement: Select the proper hitch for the trailer, coupler and pin, and correctly attach approved safety chains. Some common reasons for losing control of trailers are improper loading and cargo shifting during travel. Follow manufacturers’ instructions and ensure that cargo is appropriately secured to avoid weight redistribution.
- Components and Maintenance: Understand and maintain vehicle and trailer components. Ensure that brakes, tires, trailer coupler with pin, crossed safety chains, and lights are operating correctly.