Chapter 12: Towing a Trailer

Towing a trailer, whether for moving, recreation, or work, is a common task that requires a unique set of skills and knowledge beyond standard driving. Understanding the principles of proper equipment, weight distribution, and vehicle handling is crucial for the safety of the driver, their passengers, and everyone else on the road. Mastering these rules prevents dangerous situations like trailer sway or loss of control and ensures the vehicle and trailer combination operates as a single, stable unit.

Equipment and Loading

Before towing, a driver must ensure the tow vehicle and trailer are properly equipped and connected. Using the right gear and loading the trailer correctly are the most important steps in preventing accidents.

Required Equipment

• Hitch: The hitch is the connection point between the tow vehicle and the trailer. It must be rated for the gross weight of the trailer. The hitch ball and the trailer’s coupler must be the same size to ensure a secure connection.
• Safety Chains: Every trailer must be connected to the tow vehicle with two strong safety chains or cables. These are a critical backup system designed to keep the trailer attached if the primary hitch fails. The chains should be crossed under the trailer tongue in an “X” pattern. This cradle prevents the tongue from dropping to the pavement if it disconnects. The chains should have enough slack to allow for sharp turns but not so much that they drag on the ground.
• Lights: The trailer’s electrical system must be connected to the tow vehicle so that its lights work in sync with the vehicle’s lights. This includes functioning brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals. Before every trip, a driver should perform a light check to confirm all lights are working correctly.
• Brakes: In Arizona, any trailer with a gross weight of 3,000 pounds or more must be equipped with its own independent braking system. These brakes are typically activated electronically when the driver applies the brakes in the tow vehicle.