Towing A Trailer

As van drivers we often have the need to tow trailers and machinery to allow us to do our jobs in a concise and efficient manner. With this in mind this article will look at a few things you should take into account when towing with your van.

• Weight Limits - The first and the most important thing to look at when towing a trailer is to check the weight of the trailer. It is very important that you do not exceed the weight limits of the trailer as this is illegal and can result in penalty points and increased van insurance. Also check your licence as there will be a weight limit you can tow depending on what qualifications you have achieved. Exceeding this limit can again result in penalty points , a fixed fine and increased commercial vehicle insurance.

• Weight Distribution - When packing a trailer it is important that you distribute the weight in the trailer to stabilize it while driving. This will give you more control over the trailer when driving. One tip is to distribute the heaviest items over the axle of the trailer to give optimum control.

• Clearance Room - Remember when towing that the size of your vehicle has now changed and allow yourself more room. This is very important when pulling out of junctions and overtaking, you may need as much as twice the amount of room you would usually need.

• Speed limits - Speed limits vary when towing so be aware of what they are before setting out in your van. On the motorway maximum limits can drop to 60mph instead of 70mph and although you think you are conforming to the speed limits a police officer can stop you and issue a fixed fine and penalty points.

• Packing - As already stated packing a trailer is very important to give you the best control when on the move. By distributing the weight in the trailer it is less likely to be unsteady and you can avoid costly accidents that can increase next years van insurance premium. Also pack the trailer in a manner that all the contents are secure and nothing is protruding dangerously. Failure to secure your load can result in a fine and the addition of penalty points to your licence.

• Braking - Remember that braking will be effected by the addition of the weight to the vehicle added by the trailer. Give yourself as much as twice the braking distances than you would when driving in the absence of a trailer.

• Acceleration - Acceleration will also be effected with the addition of the weight of the trailer. It will take you longer to accelerate to the speed limit so give yourself more room when pulling onto round-a-bouts and out of busy junctions.

• Van Insurance - Most van insurance policies cover the use of trailers to transport materials and equipment. It is recommended that you are competent in the act of towing a trailer due to the fact that towing can alter the control of a vehicle and increase the risk of accident resulting in higher van insurance premiums.

The use of a trailer can make your working life a lot easier. Maybe when investing in a trailer it would also be a good idea to take into account the points mentioned above and also take part in a competency course. This small out going could help you reduce the risk of suffering an accident while towing and therefore ultimately lead to cheaper van insurance.