Towing a Trailer
Mirrors
Many states and provinces have laws
requiring special outside mirrors
when you are towing a trailer. Check
the laws in your area. You may want
to install mirrors, even if they are not
required. Hook up the trailer and see
how much it obscures your ability to
see behind you with the standard
mirrors. If you cannot see directly
behind you, or have a large blind
spot next to the trailer or the car,
you should install mirrors intended
for towing.
Connecting the Trailer
Most trailers that have a gross
weight of 1,000 Ibs (450 kg) do not
have their own braking system. If
you are thinking of getting a trailer
that does have brakes, make sure
they are electrically-operated. There
are no provisions in your car to tap
into its hydraulic braking system.
Any attempt to attach the trailer's
brakes to your car's hydraulic
system, no matter how successful it
may seem, will lower braking
effectiveness and create a potential
hazard.
Always use a safety chain when
towing a trailer. Connect the safety
chain securely at both ends. Make
sure the chain crosses under the
tongue so it will catch the trailer if it
becomes unhitched. Leave enough
slack in the chain so it can't bind in a
sharp turn. Do not let it drag on the
ground.
Driving
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