How to tow caravans and trailers

The type of drivers licence you hold and when you passed your driving test determines the type of caravan or trailer you are allowed to tow. So before you hitch up, check out the rules and regulations online at www.directgov.co.uk.

Safety first

·         Don’t set off without a safety check.

·         Overloading is dangerous. Make sure you check your car instruction manual for the recommended maximum weight before you load up.

·         Secure your load. If you are towing a trailer, ensure your load is securely tied down and nothing is sticking out. If you are transporting animals, ensure that they cannot break free while en route.

·         Distribute the weight evenly. Load up with the heaviest items over the axle where the trailer is strongest. Then pack your trailer to ensure a downward load on the tow ball. Check your car instruction manual for the recommended maximum weight and how to tow ball load.

·         If you load your trailer correctly, it will be easier to control while driving. It will also help to avoid swerving and snaking. If you do find yourself swerving or snaking, take your foot off the accelerator and reduce speed until you have regained control.

Check your speed limits

Towing a caravan or trailer means that a new set of speed limits apply. For instance if you are driving on a single carriageway, you must stick to 50mph. The speed limit for dual carriageways and motorways is 60mph but always watch out for signs on the road that indicate a lower limit.

Stick to the left-hand lanes of the motorway. Steer clear of the right-hand lane of a motorway with three lanes or more. This does not apply if there are lane closures or the Police direct you to use the right-hand lane.

Roadworthy your trailer

Keeping your trailer in roadworthy condition is just as important as maintenance on your car. Take your trailer in for regular services and always check the condition and pressure of your tyres and brakes.

Ready to hit the road

·         If the load on your trailer is too heavy to pull up to your car, reverse your car up to the trailer.

·         Adjust the jockey wheel so that the coupling head is two to three inches above the ball hitch on the back of the car. Get someone to help you so that the ball hitch is underneath the coupling head.

·         Lower the jockey wheel. Lock the coupling head onto the ball. Wind the jockey wheel into the outer case.

·         Release the clamp lever and raise the whole unit before reclamping the lever.

·         Attach the breakaway cable or securing chain to the hook on the tow bar.

·         Connect the electrical plugs to the car.

·         Check that all the lights are undamaged and working. If you are towing another vehicle, you may need to adjust your headlights.

·         Make sure all cables are secure and are not dragging on the ground.

·         Finally, take the trailer handbrake off.

Driving with a heavy load

Driving with a caravan or trailer in tow requires extra skill. Your vehicle will be wider and longer which makes taking corners and manoeuvring more difficult. Keep a watchful eye on both door mirrors and leave as much room as possible. You may think that a small trailer is easier to manoeuvre than a large one. In fact the opposite is true because a small trailer is more sensitive to steering.

Driving insured

Your trailer or caravan may be covered under your car insurance policy.  Check with your insurer whether it is covered and what level of cover you have before you take to the road. For a car insurance quote or more information about the types of car insurance available from Churchill, visit www.churchill.com/motor/car_information.htm