Trailer Towing Safety

Hitching
There are many options on the market for properly hitching your trailer to your tow vehicle. Understanding the requirements of the coupler on your trailer as well as the equipment available to install on your tow vehicle are critical elements to ensuring a safe and smooth towing experience. After reviewing your Trailer’s Owner’s Packet to understand the requirements of your coupler please select the proper hitch, receiver, and ball for your tow vehicle. Please keep in mind that not only must you select the correct size for the coupler and your vehicle, but the capacity of the hitch, receiver, and ball must also meet or exceed the GVWR of your trailer. Once you have the correct equipment familiarize yourself with seating the coupler all the way on the ball and ensuring the coupler is securely latched.
Trailer Components
Understanding the many components that make up your trailer is important to ensure you are ready to tow safely. It is important to understand the importance of properly functioning brakes, properly inflated and rated tires, properly torqued wheel lug nuts, safety chains, emergency break away cables, and properly working lights in order to tow safely. Many of these components should be part of your safety check every time you tow while some only require periodic maintenance. Please refer to your Trailer’s Owner’s Packet for specific information.