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Towing a trailer with your car or pickup truck changes your vehicle’s handling. The added weight affects its driving performance and requires adjustments in your driving techniques, which can be challenging even for seasoned drivers.
You must be prepared if you’re planning to tow loads in and around Syracuse, especially on busy roads such as State Route 290 or Interstates 690 and 81. Using the proper towing techniques and being educated on towing can help protect you and others and reduce the risk of an accident.
If another driver’s negligence involves you in a car accident, consult with the Syracuse car accident lawyers at Catalano Law to understand your legal rights.
On the Road: 6 Driving Strategies With a Trailer
Driving with a trailer attached requires patience, control, and constant vigilance. Not only does the trailer add weight, but it also affects your vehicle’s balance and stability, especially during turns or stops. Being mindful of your trailer’s presence is critical for safe driving, as it can take longer to respond to sudden changes on the road.
1. Know Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity
Not all vehicles are designed for towing. To determine your vehicle’s towing capacity, consult the owner’s manual or look for the trailering information sticker. This information is readily available in some models.
If the towing capacity is not provided, you can calculate it by taking the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and subtracting the curb weight. GCWR is the weight of a fully-loaded vehicle (with fluids, driver, passengers, and cargo). Curb weight is that of an empty but operational vehicle (fluids only, no passengers or cargo).
Exceeding the maximum payload can reduce your engine performance, increase the risk of brake fade, and make it more difficult to avoid accidents.
2. Use Proper Hitching Techniques
Use the correct hitch for your trailer and double-check all connections. A common mistake is failing to use a locking pin or safety chains, which could prevent the trailer from detaching if the hitch fails. Attach safety chains in a crisscross pattern under the trailer’s tongue to help prevent detachment on the road.
3. Understand Weight Distribution and Load Balancing
An unbalanced trailer load can upset the vehicle’s weight distribution, make braking and turning more difficult, and cause dangerous trailer sway. This increases the risk of losing control of your vehicle while towing.
A common rule for trailer load safety recommends keeping about 60% of the load’s weight to the front of the trailer. This often means placing heavier items near the front and lighter items near the back.
4. Adjust Your Driving
Towing a trailer doesn’t just make your vehicle longer; it also requires a different approach to navigate corners safely. Trailers do not follow the exact same path your car or truck will. Instead, they will follow the tightest, sharpest path, meaning they cut corners.
Before turning, slow down more than usual and begin the turn slightly later. Aim for a wider, gradual arc to keep your trailer safely following without cutting over the curb or sidewalk.
Always allow extra distance when braking, adopt more gentle and progressive maneuvers, and check your blind spots more often to avoid hitting other vehicles.
5. Monitor Your Speed and Choose the Right Lane
Excessive speeds can increase the risk of the trailer swaying and the load becoming unbalanced, potentially causing an accident. Remember that the posted speed limit is for vehicles, not towing a trailer.
For example, even though the speed limit on I-81 is 55 mph near urban areas, consider driving at no more than 45-50 mph while towing. Remember to keep to the far right lane when driving at these reduced speeds so other vehicles can pass you safely.
6. Perform Regular Tire Pressure Checks
Underinflated tires can cause uneven tread wear and increase the risk of a tire popping or tearing. Check your vehicle and your trailer’s tire pressure before each trip. Consult the owner’s manual or check the sticker on the driver-side door jamb to find your car’s recommended tire pressure level. The information for your trailer can be found on a sticker or a plate on the side.
Your Legal Responsibilities When Driving With a Trailer
Towing a trailer comes with several legal responsibilities. Neglecting these duties can lead to severe consequences, such as fines, loss of driving privileges, or liability for damages in the event of an accident.
1. Compliance With Local Towing Regulations
In New York, all trailers must be registered with the DMV and comply with the state’s minimum required equipment. Make sure you understand these regulations before you hit the road, as failure to comply can result in fines.
For instance, all trailers need at least two red taillights, one white lamp for the number plate, and red and amber reflex reflectors mounted at the same height. If the trailer’s unladen weight exceeds 1,000 lbs., it must also be equipped with brakes.
2. Maintaining Full Insurance Coverage
While insurance is not required for non-commercial trailers in New York, it is a good idea to check your insurance policy and verify that it covers towing. Not all insurance covers your trailer if you’re in an accident, potentially leaving you with high out-of-pocket expenses.
3. Liability in Case of Accidents
Determining liability can be complicated if an accident occurs while towing a trailer. For instance, the towing vehicle driver may be partially at fault for an accident if they failed to correctly secure the trailer or its load. In other cases, liability can extend to third parties. For example, the manufacturer may be responsible if a defective trailer part caused the accident.
Work With Syracuse Car Accident Lawyers After a Trailer Accident
A car accident involving a trailer can be more severe than one without, especially if the trailer or its load gets separated in the crash. If you sustained injuries in a trailer-related accident, you need legal representation from attorneys who specialize in this type of accident.
The team at Catalano Law is dedicated to protecting the rights of the people of central New York. Our attorneys are dedicated, compassionate, experienced, and have a track record of success. We have earned millions of dollars for accident victims and their loved ones. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
