Chapter 12: Towing a Trailer

Towing a trailer transforms a vehicle’s handling, braking, and overall dynamics, introducing new risks and responsibilities for the driver. Understanding the principles of proper loading, required equipment, and adjusted driving techniques is crucial for preventing loss of control, which can lead to serious crashes. Mastering these skills is essential for the safety of the driver, their passengers, and everyone else sharing the road.

Equipment and Loading

Before towing, a driver must ensure the trailer and the towing vehicle are properly equipped and the cargo is loaded correctly. The connection between the vehicle and trailer is the most critical point, and its failure can have catastrophic consequences.

Required Equipment:

• Hitch System: The hitch connects the trailer to the tow vehicle. It consists of a receiver on the vehicle and a ball mount. The hitch ball and coupler must be the same size. The entire system must be rated for the weight of the trailer and its cargo.
• Safety Chains: Two strong safety chains are required to keep the trailer attached to the vehicle if the hitch fails. The chains should be crossed under the trailer tongue in an “X” pattern. This cradle can catch the tongue if it disconnects, preventing it from digging into the pavement.
• Lights: The trailer must have functioning taillights, brake lights, and turn signals that are synchronized with the tow vehicle’s lights. This requires a wiring harness to connect the two electrical systems.
• Brakes: In New Jersey, separate brakes are required on any trailer with a gross weight of 3,000 lbs or more. These are typically electric brakes controlled by a unit in the tow vehicle’s cab, which can be applied independently to help control trailer sway.