Light-Duty Trailers Safety

As summer approaches, for those members involved in school operations, there will be an emphasis on completing special projects during the break. Many of these projects will include using trailers to haul materials, supplies, and machinery to various job sites. In addition to these special projects, many school districts utilize trailers in their everyday activities, including grounds maintenance and building repair.

Using a trailer can still be a common practice, even for members not involved in school activities. Cities and counties often use trailers like schools to haul tools and equipment between locations.

Trailers are a necessary tool in completing many job activities. Although they are a common item, special skills and knowledge are required when operating a vehicle that is towing a trailer. First, let’s define what is a Light-Duty Trailer. This term refers to trailers with a pulling capacity of 12,000 pounds or less and uses a ball to hitch the trailer to the towing vehicle. Hitches range from I-IV and are determined by the “Pull” and “Tongue Weight.” A Class I Hitch has a pull of 2,000 pounds and a tongue weight of 200 pounds, while a Class IV Hitch has a pull of 10-12,000 pounds and a tongue weight of 1,000-1,200 pounds.

The following are tips to reduce the typical risks associated with towing a trailer. When first deciding to use a trailer, you should:

1. Choose the proper towing equipment.
2. Check the vehicle’s weight capacity to ensure it can handle the trailer when loaded.
3. Check the trailer’s weight capacity to ensure it can handle the anticipated load.
4. Check the tire pressure on both the towing vehicle and the trailer.
5. Prepare for roadside emergencies.
6. Ensure there is a spare tire for the trailer.
7. Make sure you have a lug nut wrench that fits the trailer.
8. Use wheel chocks when unhooking the trailer from the tow vehicle.
9. Hitch up the trailer correctly.

• • Line up the vehicle.
  • Raise the coupler.
  • Align the ball and coupler.
  • Lower the coupler onto the ball.
  • Latch the coupler.
  • Attach the safety chains in a CRISSCROSS pattern.
  • Retract or swivel the trailer jack.
  • Plug in the trailer wiring.
  • Check the trailer lights.

Tips when actually towing a trailer:

1. Allow plenty of stopping distance.
2. Anticipate problems ahead.
3. Watch for trailer sway.
4. Swing out when making turns.
5. Use care when changing lanes.
6. Use a spotter when backing.
7. Do not pull into a place if there is no way out.
8. Use a parking brake and chock the trailer’s wheel when in the desired location.

Click the here for the safety fact sheet developed by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI).