Proper Towing of
Boats & Trailers
With summer and warm weather British Columbia’s roadways will are full of people heading with their boats to rivers and lakes across the province.
The improper towing of boats can create dangerous driving conditions resulting in traffic accidents.
When towing a boat or trailer:
- Ensure that the tires on the trailer and tow vehicle are properly inflated.
- Connect safety chains properly.
- Make sure that your boat is properly secured to the trailer.
- Check that the trailer’s signal lights and brake lights are operating properly.
- Ensure that the trailer is properly secured to the trailer hitch.
- Secure and contain all equipment and cargo. This will keep it from shifting within the boat which can affect stability or falling out into traffic.
- Allow for more space between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you. The added weight will increase the stopping distance required.
- If you are traveling for an extended period stop in a safe location to make sure brake lights and signal lights are still working properly.
- Exercise caution when passing another vehicle. The added weight of the boat can dramatically reduce acceleration.
In my opinion, the balance of the trailer is most important. If there is too little tongue weight, there is the potential for the trailer to sway uncontrollably and cause an accident. Same for too much tongue weight and the tow vehicle's steering is compromised. Both can cause an accident. I always weigh the tow vehicle with and without the trailer to determine how it is loaded.
ReplyDelete