Trailer Safety Guide

Towing a trailer safely is about more than protecting your cargo — it’s about protecting yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. A properly loaded, maintained, and connected trailer reduces the risk of accidents, costly damage, and breakdowns. Whether you're hauling equipment, vehicles, or running a mobile business, understanding basic trailer safety practices ensures a smoother ride and greater peace of mind every time you hit the road.

Inspect Tires - Check pressure, tread depth, and look for cracks or bulges.
Check Trailer Lights - Test brake lights, turn signals, and running lights before every trip.
Verify Hitch Connection - Ensure the coupler is locked, latch is secure, and safety chains are crossed and attached.
Check Brake Controller - Make sure your trailer brakes are working properly through your tow vehicle’s controller.
Inspect Breakaway System - Confirm the breakaway cable is attached to the tow vehicle (not the safety chains!).
Secure Load Properly - Use straps, chains, and D-rings. Cargo should not shift during transit.
Check Tongue Weight - Proper tongue weight should be about 10–15% of the total trailer weight for stability.
Distribute Load Evenly - Place heavier items over the axles to maintain trailer balance.

Choose the Right Hitch Type - Match your trailer to the right hitch (bumper pull, gooseneck, pintle, etc.).
Use Correct Ball Size - Make sure the trailer coupler and hitch ball sizes match perfectly.
Lock the Coupler - Always latch and lock the trailer coupler securely onto the ball.
Attach Safety Chains - Cross chains under the tongue in an “X” pattern to catch the tongue if disconnected.
Plug in the Wiring Harness - Ensure your trailer lights and brakes are powered and functional.

Allow Extra Distance for Stopping - Trailers add significant braking distance. Start braking earlier.
Take Wider Turns - Trailer wheels cut tighter inside than the tow vehicle.
Mind Your Speed - Towing trailers safely often means driving slower than normal speed limits.
Be Aware of Trailer Sway - If sway starts, ease off the accelerator gently — don’t jerk the wheel.
Use Lower Gears on Hills - Help maintain control and reduce strain on your brakes downhill.
Avoid Sudden Movements - Accelerate and brake gradually to prevent jackknifing or tipping.

Center Heavy Items Over Axles - Balance weight to avoid sway.
Tie Down All Cargo - Use proper straps, not bungee cords.
Use E-Track or D-Rings - Secure everything at multiple points.
Cover Loose Materials - Use tarps or netting for mulch, gravel, or similar materials.
Avoid Overloading - Never exceed the trailer’s GVWR or axle ratings.

Tire Maintenance - Inspect and rotate tires regularly. Replace when worn or cracked.
Brake System Checkups - Test trailer brakes periodically and service if stopping power fades.
Lubricate Moving Parts - Grease the coupler, jack, suspension parts, and hinges.
Inspect Lights and Wiring - Check for corrosion at plug connections and replace broken lights.
Monitor Bearings and Axles - Repack wheel bearings annually or per manufacturer’s schedule.

Enclosed Trailers - Watch for wind drag; double-check door latches before towing.
Utility Trailers - Ensure open cargo is well-strapped; secure lightweight items from blowing out.
Food/Concession Trailers - Make sure propane tanks are properly shut off and secured; check vent hood fastenings.
BBQ Trailers - Secure smokers and grills tightly; verify that grease traps are emptied before transport.

If a Tire Blows Out - Hold steering wheel firmly, ease off gas, and pull over slowly.
If the Trailer Sways - Gradually decelerate, don’t overcorrect, and regain control gently.
If the Trailer Disconnects - The breakaway system should engage. Stay calm, pull over safely.