Our attitude behind the wheel must be compatible with the additional responsibility of driving a car with a trailer. That is why there are driving behaviors that we must follow and others that we must avoid:
Drive relaxed. This is especially important when transporting a car. Maneuvers should be performed smoothly, observing the situation carefully and not over speeding. Legally, highway speed is limited to 90 km/h with a light trailer and 80 km/h with a heavy trailer. On motorways, it is 80 km/h, on interurban roads, 70 km/h, and in urban areas, 50 km/h.
Secure the trailer. Checking the towing vehicle and trailer are adequately secured before setting off is advisable. Check the hitches and ensure no friction between the towing vehicle and the trailer.
Check the operation of the lights. They must all be in good working order.
The braking distance increases to 15-20% when driving with a trailer; it is advisable to consider this to keep a safe distance.
Be careful when cornering as the trailer path is more open, and we may have issues with oncoming traffic in the other lane. It is advisable to take turns wider to reduce this phenomenon.
Be careful on the ascents and descents. Both uphill engine power and downhill braking are affected on a steep grade. You will therefore have to adapt your driving and gears to the situation.
Be very careful with side wind gusts. They are dangerous due to their more significant impact when transporting a trailer. For example, if you have to pass a truck, remember that the resistance of the car and that of the trailer are different, which can change the trajectory.
Reverse works the other way with a trailer. It is therefore advisable to practice these maneuvers beforehand in a place without traffic.
The load must be distributed correctly, 10-15 cm from the wheels’ axle so that the trailer can turn correctly.
The mass transfer must be taken into account. In addition to the thrust exerted on the towing vehicle, the transfer of mass influences the tire pressure, which must therefore be adjusted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
There may be visibility issues due to the trailer. If this is the case, additional mirrors should be fitted to allow suitable visibility. Read more (อ่านต่อ which is the term in Thai) here.
