Boating is a great hobby especially during summer. However, for most people, a vacation that involves boating activities would require pulling their boat on a trailer behind their vehicle. Well, if you own a boat then why not?
Since towing a boat on a trailer can change the way you will drive your vehicle it is important that you know the safety tips for towing a boat. This will help you understand your capabilities and limitations while on the road.
- Always double check. Before you hit the road, make sure that you perform a full safety inspection of your vehicle and towing apparatus. Check your tires and make sure they have enough air to sustain your trip. Don’t forget to load your towing apparatus and safety toolbox on your truck. Check the hook and make sure it doesn’t break throughout your journey.
- Install the trailer lights to your tow vehicle to make it visible during the night. Do note however that trailer lights should be used at all times even during daytime. Make sure all the lights are working – you can even run a test for safety. The running lights, right, and left turn signals should be working. Ensure that the brake lights and hazard signal turns on when you press them.
- Distribute the weight when loading up your boat evenly. Do not place too much heavy materials on the boat as it might cause control issues when you hit the road. Balance the items that you plan on bringing with you especially if they are heavy. Avoid shifting routes when you drive.
- Cross your safety chains which usually extend from your trailer and your tow vehicle. If you think you’re short of the measurement then you need to purchase a safety chain that will comply with this safety requirement. Crossing your chains has a very important purpose – that is to catch and support the loose trailer tongue so the boat will not dig into the road.
- Keep your distance from other vehicles. When merging into the traffic, it is important that you exercise patience on the road. Since you are towing a boat, you need to maintain space between other vehicles. Subsequently, adjust your driving style and speed as if you are not going to get up to passing speed as quickly as you are used to when driving without the tow boat behind you.
At the very end, practice makes perfect. If it is your first time to tow a boat, make sure that you train yourself for this task. You need to be safe first in order to have a fun vacation with the family.
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