Towing Risks

Some of us may occasionally tow a trailer of sorts. Even if not, we should all be aware of those around us while driving…

I happened to be driving on a four-lane highway over the weekend, when a car towing a utility trailer began to pass on my left. As we approached a traffic light and began to decelerate, I noticed something at a low level zip by my door between our vehicles! It was a wheel from the utility trailer! Upon noticing what had just happened, I checked mirrors and pulled off to the right. The single-axle trailer became unbalanced and dumped its unsecured contents into the lane I had just moved away from. I pulled off the road and began to assist the other driver, until the trailer & contents were cleared…. The trailer appeared to be poorly maintained, so I asked the driver when she had last serviced the wheel bearings…. She replied “Service wheel what?”…

If you tow…

·         Always ensure proper loading and that contents are secured to the trailer. Do not unbalance or overload.

·         Visually inspect condition of tires, wheels, lugs, hubs, grease fittings, and lighting. Recommend carrying spares…

·         Annually remove, inspect / replace, and lubricate hubs and wheel bearings.

·         Additional safety gear may need to be added to your kit when towing…. Air & plug kit, flares / traffic hazard signs, flashlights, etc…

If you do not tow…. Then always be aware and recognize risks which others may have overlooked. Most importantly,  give them PLENTY OF ROOM.