Motortrades Insight Magazine Online
Britain's leading driver provides personal tips on towing trailers and vehicles
WITH thousands of horse owners towing their pets from field-to-field, an increasing number of caravan owners and more individuals providing personal breakdown recovery services for their friends and family, it is important motorists are aware of the laws and best tips on towing heavy goods.Peter Rodger, frequently hailed as 'Britain's top advanced driver', provides his tips on towing. He said: "Whether you're towing a speedboat, a horsebox, a caravan or another car, there are certain rules which must be applied. It is important to recognise the challenges which come with having to control not just one vehicle, but two."
Volkswagen have proved their engines and small vehicles are powerful enough to tow chunky caravans. • Watch the weight of the towed vehicle - this should not exceed 85 per cent of the car's kerb weight. Excess weight will cause instability.
• Check the unit you are towing is secure before pulling away, and check again after a short distance. Look for anything loose, disconnected, missing or broken.
• Check that your extra rear lights are all connected and fully functional. Get somebody to help while you test the brakes and indicators. As well as additional lights, you will also need an illuminated number plate at the rear of the unit.
• Check the pressure of all tyres before you set off, bearing in mind those of the towed unit as well as your own vehicle.
• Stopping distances and the space between you and other vehicles should be increased appropriately, allowing for the extra weight you are carrying. You should also allocate more time to overtaking, positioning yourself for turns, parking, pulling into traffic streams, changing lanes and joining and leaving motorways.
• Use your mirrors frequently - the fact you have lost the use of your rear view mirror makes extended door mirrors very useful. Extended towing mirrors are not a legal requirement, but you will have a better feel for overtaking and reversing.
• Be aware that reduced speed limits usually apply when towing vehicles, and remember to extend courtesy to vehicles following you by allowing them to pass.
All trailers must be clearly marked with their maximum gross weight in kilograms, while all unbraked trailers should show the year of manufacture.
When towing, drivers should be aware that speed limits are lower - 60mph on motorways and dual carriageways unless both the vehicle and trailer weigh more than 7.5 tonnes - where a 50mph limit on dual carriageways should be observed, unless there are lower speed limits in place.
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