Written by Jim, JSF Driving School
Last week I covered the legal requirements concerning towing in Part 1. Now I will move on to some useful tips to make sure your towing and driving experience is successful!
Safety Checks
It is vital that any load is carried so that it is not a danger to other road users. The following checks should be made to your trailer or caravan before you set off on your journey:
• Correct loading, with the right noseweight on the towbar;
• Correctly hitched up, with breakaway cable, or secondary coupling, properly connected and the coupling head fully engaged and locked;
• All lights and indicators connected and working ;
• Jockey wheel and assembly in fully stowed position;
• All windows, roof light and doors properly closed and secure;
• Brake systems are working properly;
• Tyre pressures are correct.
• All fuel supplies are secured and turned off i.e. Liquid gas cyclinders.
• The trailer or caravan should be fitted with tyres of the specified rating as mentioned in the manufacturer’s handbook.
Tyre regulations also apply to trailers and caravans, so check tread depth and any damage to the sidewalls of the tyres. It is wise to raise a caravan on supports if it is to remain standing for long periods, taking the weight off the tyres and prolonging their useful life.
Driving Techniques
You will become used to towing, and you can make this easier for yourself by planning ahead and giving yourself more time. Remember to:
• Allow more braking time when stopping or slowing down;
• Allow for the extra length during your driving, especially when turning or emerging at junctions;
• Allow three times the usual distance and time to overtake safely;
• SNAKING – ease off the accelerator gradually, allow the steering to ‘twitch’ a little, and reduce your speed until the snaking has stopped;
• High-sided vehicles – take extra caution if passing or being passed, allowing as much space as safely possible to avoid turbulence or buffeting effects;
• Never tow in the outside lane of a motorway with more than two lanes, unless other lanes are closed off;
• Be courteous – improve the image of the tower by checking your mirrors regularly, ensuring that you are not holding up faster traffic. Be prepared to pull over safely if you are causing a hold up!
• SPEED LIMITS – Unless road signs instruct otherwise you must not exceed
30mph (48kph) in built-up areas
50mph (80kph) on single carriageways
60mph (96kph) on dual carriageways or motorways.
These speeds should be reduced in high winds or crosswinds, when travelling downhill, or in poor visibility.
If you have any further questions please do get in touch, and myself or my partner Sharn will be glad to help your solve any towing concerns.
T: 0800 3777 138/01452 290278 E: sharn@jsfdrivingschool.co.uk
