Chapter 12: Towing a Trailer

Safely towing a trailer requires a unique set of skills and knowledge beyond standard driving. The added weight and length dramatically change a vehicle’s handling, acceleration, and braking capabilities. Understanding the principles of proper loading, required equipment, and specific driving maneuvers is essential for passing the driver’s license exam and, more importantly, for preventing dangerous situations like trailer sway or an inability to stop in an emergency.

Equipment and Loading

Before hitting the road, a driver must ensure the trailer and towing vehicle are properly equipped and the load is secure and balanced. Failure to do so is a leading cause of towing-related accidents.

Required Equipment

• Hitch: The hitch system must be appropriate for the weight of the trailer. It consists of a hitch on the tow vehicle and a coupler on the trailer tongue. Both must be securely fastened and locked.
• Safety Chains: Two safety chains are required to connect the trailer to the tow vehicle. They act as a backup connection if the hitch fails. The chains must be crossed under the trailer tongue in an “X” pattern. This prevents the tongue from dropping to the pavement if it detaches and helps maintain some steering control. The chains should have enough slack for turns but not so much that they drag on the ground.
• Lights: The trailer’s lighting system must be connected to the tow vehicle and fully functional. This includes taillights, brake lights, and turn signals that operate in sync with the tow vehicle’s lights.
• Trailer Brakes: In South Dakota, a trailer must be equipped with its own braking system if its gross weight is 3,000 lbs or more, or if its gross weight exceeds 40% of the towing vehicle’s weight. These brakes are crucial for assisting with stops and preventing the trailer from pushing, or “jackknifing,” the tow vehicle during hard braking.

Common Mistake:
Attaching safety chains without crossing them. If the hitch fails and the chains are not crossed, the trailer tongue will drop directly onto the pavement, potentially digging in and causing a complete loss of control.