If you are new to towing a horse trailer, consider the following tips for safe driving.
1. Take your time! Towing a trailer is a much slower process than driving without one so allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination and do not feel pressured by other drivers on the road. If you notice a tail-back of traffic behind you, then pull over where convenient and safe to allow other vehicles to pass.
2. Manual transmission vehicles give you more control. Use low gears when towing up and down hills or over rough terrain. Many 4×4s have lower gears to negotiate more challenging terrain.
3. Use lower gears in wet, slippery conditions.
4. If possible, drive a diesel-fuelled vehicle. You will have more power for pulling away at low speeds. What is more, a diesel vehicle is generally cheaper to run.
5. If your trailer snakes from side-to-side or feels unbalanced, check that your load is evenly distributed. Make sure that most of the weight is over the trailer axle where possible.
6. Make extra allowances for wider horse trailers. Remember that they are more likely to bump or drop off the kerb.
7. Ensure that you have the best visibility for towing your horse trailer. Extra wide mirrors attached to your tow vehicle will help you see beyond your trailer.
