With September having seen some of the wettest weather on record in some areas of the UK, and the rest of autumn and winter ahead, it may be worth preparing for more wet and stormy weather.
Whether you tow a trailer for work or for leisure, it’s worth reviewing how to tow as safely as possible during wet weather because there’s no doubt that rain makes it more challenging.
Firstly, it’s worth giving your trailer a maintenance check. Check that all lights are powered, connected, and working properly as good visibility is crucial during daylight hours as well as in the dark.
Fishtailing is when the trailer starts to swing from side to side from the hitch and it’s at least frightening and at worst dangerous. As it’s more likely to happen in wet weather, check the trailer’s tyre pressures (factoring load mass) and tread so that grip is optimised, and of course, keep to the speed limit. Also consider winter or heavy duty specialised tyres if you’re going to be traversing rough terrain.
Thoroughly check the hitch before you set off. Make sure that it’s properly installed, the position and engagement of the trailer on the ball bar is correct, the locking of the detachable ball rod locking mechanism is working, and the breakaway rope is attached.
When you’re ready to set off, make sure that your load is thoroughly secured. As well as helping to avoid trailer sway, if you do get stuck, a rearrangement of the load position could redistribute the weight around the axle to help free it.
Start off slowly in wet weather as the road will be more slippery, especially when it first rains, and keep to the speed limit – speeding is as dangerous when towing a trailer as at any other time. Likewise, if you have to tow more slowly than the speed limit, sensible use of hazard warning lights lets other road users know that they need to be aware around you.
Always brake slowly to avoid fishtailing and be aware of increased stopping distances as it takes longer to stop on wet surfaces – so leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front.
Always remember, safety comes first both for the driver of the towing vehicle and other road users so if you are in any doubt, pull over safely and wait until conditions improve.
