A loaded trailer can carry an average of up to 40 tons, which can make it take longer to brake and, in a truck accident, can contribute to catastrophic injuries. The risks associated with an accident involving a cargo trailer are greater than an accident with the collision of two cars, due to the large size and the number of blind spots on a cargo trailer. If you are driving your vehicle, remember to keep an appropriate distance from those driving a cargo trailer. On the other hand, if you are someone who drives with a trailer, we invite you to check this list of suggestions and recommendations on how to avoid an accident:
- Consult the drivers manual so that you know what weight your vehicle can pull or transport successfully so that you do not overload your vehicle. Pulling more weight than your car can transport can make it harder to handle and, in some cases, it can cause a wreck.
- Do not underestimate the difficulty of driving with a trailer. The recommendation is to practice a little, perhaps at the entrance of your driveway or in quiet streets before driving with a trailer in avenues or in areas with heavy traffic.
- The size of the trailer is directly related to the number of adjustments you should make as a driver. A small trailer used to transport light equipment may not handle much differently, but driving while dragging a boat or RV will require all of your attention and skills at the wheel.
- Make sure the trailer is properly attached and secured before hitting the road. Check the safety chains, lights, and the plate before you start your trip.
- Keep a greater distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you when you are hauling a trailer. The extra weight on your car will make it harder to stop or stop altogether.
- Take road crossings more broadly, because as your vehicle is larger, sometimes twice the length than a normal size, you will need more space at the crossings so you do not drive on the sidewalk, hit other cars, or have unintentional consequences.
- Driving in reverse when hauling a trailer is a skill that requires a little more practice. Keep in mind that you will need to adjust your driving the first few times you attempt to drive in reverse, but then you will find out what works for you.
- Take it easy. Many times, it is better to drive on the right lane when you haul a trailer, especially on large highways. Drive a little below the speed limit for your safety and the safety of others.
- Parking can be difficult. The small spaces in many parking lots can be almost impossible to park into, so a recommendation is to look for a spot that is isolated and where there are few surrounding vehicles so that later you can maneuver the spot to park into it, and to leave safely.