Safety Tips for Driving with a Trailer

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Towing a trailer can be a big help when you're moving, heading out on a trip, or hauling gear. But it’s a different kind of driving! It takes a little extra prep and a different approach behind the wheel. At U-Haul, we’ve helped millions of people tow safely, and we know what really matters when it comes to staying in control on the road.

This guide will share the essential tips for safe trailer driving, from setting up correctly to navigating the road with confidence.

Quick Answer: Safe trailer driving requires staying at or below 55 MPH, maintaining at least a 5-second following distance, and loading heavier items toward the front of the trailer. Before hitting the road, always check that your hitch is secure, safety chains are properly crossed, lights and brakes work, and your vehicle's towing capacity matches your trailer's weight.

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Towing a Trailer

Know Your Towing Capacity

Before hooking up a trailer, it’s important to check exactly how much weight your vehicle can tow. This information can be found in the owner’s manual of your vehicle. Pulling more weight than your vehicle is rated for can harm your engine and increase the likelihood of an accident.

If you’re not sure what size trailer is right, U-Haul team members are always happy to assist with helping you choose the right trailer rental for your vehicle.

Check Everything Before You Go

Before you hit the road, take some time to look over everything:

  • Make sure the hitch is tightly secured, and the ball size matches the trailer.
  • Cross the safety chains under the hitch and attach them securely.
  • Double-check that your trailer lights and brakes are working.
  • Confirm that all your tires are properly inflated, both on the trailer and your vehicle.

Load the Trailer Properly

How you pack your trailer matters. Try to place more of the weight in the front half. Keep heavier items low and secure. Spreading weight evenly across its width will help keep everything stable. Most importantly, be sure to avoid putting heavy items near the back, this can cause swaying at higher speeds.

Driving Tips When Towing a Trailer

Stick to 55 MPH

U-Haul officially recommends keeping your speed at or below 55 MPH when towing. While that may seem slow, it’s certainly much safer. Trailers make your vehicle heavier and longer, which means slower acceleration, longer stopping distances, and ultimately less room for error.

In some states like California, 55 MPH is actually the law when towing. Staying under that limit gives you more control and helps prevent trailer sway.

Give Yourself More Space

Leave more room than usual between you and the car in front of you when trailering. A good rule of thumb is at least five seconds of following distance. Braking takes longer when towing, so giving yourself more space allows you to avoid sudden stops or rear-end collisions.

Turn Wide and Take It Slow

When turning, especially on right turns, swing a little wider than you typically would. Trailers don’t follow your exact path and often cut corners. Go slowly and keep an eye on your mirrors to ensure the trailer clears the curb and any nearby vehicles.

Use Your Mirrors Often

You’ll likely depend on your side mirrors a lot more when towing. Before your trip, be sure to adjust them so you have a clear view of both the trailer and traffic behind you. If you can’t see clearly, consider getting extended towing mirrors.

Handling Common Road Challenges

Driving on Hills

Climbing a hill with a trailer can be a challenge. Use a lower gear to help with power when going uphill. The same applies when going downhill to help with braking. Try to avoid riding your brakes too much on long declines.

Backing Up with a Trailer

This part can be tricky, but with practice, it gets easier. Here are a few tips:

  • Turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction you want the trailer to go.
  • Go slowly and make small adjustments.
  • Use your mirrors and check your surroundings before moving.
  • If someone can help guide you, even better.

What to Do if the Trailer Sways

If your trailer begins to sway side to side, be sure not to speed up or hit your brakes hard. Instead, attempt to ease off the gas while holding your steering wheel steady. Once things settle, pull over and check your load. Make sure everything is still properly secured and balanced.

Trailer Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

Always Wear a Seatbelt

It sounds simple, but it’s worth repeating. Buckling up is the easiest way to protect yourself while towing.

Check on the Trailer Regularly

Every time you stop for gas or a break, do a quick inspection:

  • Is the hitch still tight?
  • Are the safety chains in place?
  • Are the tires inflated properly?
  • Are the lights still working?

This takes just a minute and can help catch problems before they become bigger issues during your journey.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

It’s smart to carry a few essentials just in case:

  • A spare tire and jack for the trailer
  • Wheel chocks
  • Basic tools

If something goes wrong, find a safe place to pull over, turn on your hazard lights, and assess the situation. If you’re operating a U-Haul trailer rental and something goes wrong, be sure to contact U-Haul Roadside Assistance for help.

U-Haul Makes Towing Easier and Safer

U-Haul has been helping people move and tow safely since 1945. With over 75 years of experience, we’ve become the trusted name in trailer rentals across North America. We take your safety seriously – that’s why our trailers are built tough, maintained to the highest standards, and designed with safety in mind. Whether you’re moving across town or heading out on the open road, U-Haul trailers support safe driving and your peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving with a Trailer

What’s the safest speed to drive with a trailer?

We recommend staying at or below 55 MPH. This will improve safety, give you better control, and help prevent sway. It’s also the legal limit when towing in some states like California.

How should I load the trailer?

Load heavier items in the front and centered over the axle if possible. Avoid placing a ton of weight towards the back of the trailer. Spread the weight evenly to properly secure your items.

Can I use cruise control while towing?

It’s best not to. Cruise control doesn’t react quickly to hills or sudden traffic changes. Driving manually gives you more control when towing.

What do I do if the trailer starts swaying?

Avoid sudden braking and ease off the gas. Maintain steady steering and pull over when it’s safe to check your load and ensure it’s balanced and secure.

Do I need a special license to tow a U-Haul trailer?

You do not need a special driver's license to rent U-Haul equipment. Only a government-issued driver's license is required to rent our trucks and trailers.

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