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Preventing and Managing Trailer Sway: The Ultimate Guide

Posted by ProPride Hitch on 17th Dec 2020

Preventing and Managing Trailer Sway: The Ultimate Guide

Picture this: you're hitting the road with your family, pulling a trailer behind your vehicle, ready for an adventure. But then, things take a turn for the worse. Your trailer starts to sway, creating a feeling of unpredictability and danger. The sway becomes excessive, and before you know it, you're fishtailing and whipping on the road. The passengers in your vehicle are frightened, and other motorists are at risk. This is the reality of trailer sway, and it's not a pleasant one. According to multiple reports, it's responsible for more than 500,000 accidents every year. These accidents aren't always fatal, but they almost always cause significant damage. They can turn a fun road trip into a nightmare. But, there's hope. Trailer sway can be prevented and managed with the right equipment and knowledge. Don't let the fear of trailer sway hold you back from exploring the open road. Learn how to keep yourself, your loved ones, and other motorists safe, and ensure that your next adventure is a pleasant one.

Are you familiar with the sensation of your trailer swaying back and forth on the road, creating a side-to-side motion for your vehicle in tow? This unnerving experience is caused by the forces on the side of the trailer pulling it in a different direction than your vehicle. But don't worry, there are ways to prevent it! One of the best things you can do is pay attention to the adjustments of your hitch when connecting it to your trailer. It's important to note that some degree of trailer sway is normal, as it is affected by the center of gravity between the two vehicles. If you want to learn more about this topic and find out just how much sway is normal, check out this article on Trailer Sway: Learn more about How Much Trailer Sway is Normal.

Are you aware of the dangerous and disruptive issue of trailer sway? It's crucial to understand what it is, so you know what to look for when inspecting your towing system components. To ensure a smooth and safe trip, always take the time to check that your trailer sway bar setup is in proper working condition before towing. Additionally, being familiar with how trailer sway bars work is key to making sure you're attaching it correctly. One tip to help avoid trailer sway on the road is creating a checklist before every time you hook up your trailer. This will keep you from making simple mistakes like forgetting to put in the hitch pin or placing one of the breakaway cables in the wrong location. But it's not just about equipment, human error when attaching the trailer, improper weight distribution, defective hitch, or missing or damaged components also contribute to sway. Even things like road speed and wind conditions can cause sway while on the road, so always be vigilant while towing.

Are you aware of the importance of reducing your speed when hauling a trailer behind your vehicle? TheU.S. Department of Agriculture's "Safe Trailering" program advises slowing down by 25 percent. When towing a trailer, it's best to observe the speed limits posted for trucks rather than regular vehicles. A general rule of thumb is to not exceed 55 miles per hour while towing any type of trailer. This is because, as you probably already know, swaying tends to occur at higher speeds.

It's crucial to keep your speed in check once you're on the road, and it's not just to prevent swaying, but also because as the USDA reported, driver error is the top cause of trailer crashes. So, always stay mindful of the conditions on the road around you when towing a trailer.

As a driver, you have the power to control your speed while hauling a trailer, but there are other factors on the road that are out of your control. One of the biggest culprits? Wind. It can have a major impact on how your trailer handles while you're driving. When towing a camper trailer, the wind can affect your speed in many ways, from drafts of passing vehicles, crosswinds, and even natural wind when descending a hill. A study conducted by Knott Laboratory revealed that crosswinds can be a significant force on moving vehicles, leading to increased force pushing on the side of a trailer. So, next time you're towing a trailer, be mindful of wind conditions, as it may have a greater impact on your trailer than you think.

Did you know that air pressure changes from passing vehicles can cause trailer sway? It's true! The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends releasing the accelerator pedal to slow down when this occurs and keeping a firm grip on the steering wheel to keep your vehicle stable. When you're the one passing a vehicle, it's essential to remember a few key things. Always pass on level ground to avoid sway, avoid passing on narrow roads or soft shoulders and make sure there's enough room for your trailer to clear the vehicle you're passing. Additionally, The NHTSA recommends some general handling tips to help you avoid sway while pulling a trailer. Slow down when traveling over bumpy roads and railroad tracks, avoid sudden stops and fast starts, and make wider turns so the wheels on your trailer don't hit or ride up on a curb. Following these tips can help make towing a safer and more pleasant experience.

As an experienced RVer, you know that it's all about getting a feel for your vehicle and trailer. When you hit the road, you'll start to learn how to make the necessary adjustments to minimize the impact of trailer sway while driving. You'll begin to anticipate when you need to slow down or lightly press the brakes. Furthermore, a responsible driver such as yourself will make the smart choice to stay off the road if conditions are unfavorable.

But it's not just about your driving skills, the type of hitch you use for your vehicle is also a crucial aspect to consider when it comes to trailer sway. In recent years, there have been several advancements in trailer sway control hitches that provide better safety for drivers. While some level of trailer sway is inevitable, choosing the right hitch for your vehicle can help minimize these hazards. So, when you're looking for the best hitch for your RV make sure to keep safety in mind, it will make all the difference in your journey.

Are you looking for a way to ensure a smooth and safe trip while towing a trailer? By following speed laws and performing proper inspections on your vehicle, you can usually avoid excessive trailer sway on the road. Trailer sway can lead to dangerous situations and put passengers in the vehicle at risk.

That's where ProPride comes in, we are committed to helping you and your family stay safe on the road by offering the most advanced trailer sway control hitch on the market: the 3P hitch. Our 3P hitch is designed to tackle even the toughest road conditions, and with our help, you'll be able to avoid dangerous trailer sway. Don't let trailer sway ruin your trip, contact us today for more information about our 3P hitch and experience excellent customer service from ProPride. We're here to take care of all your towing needs and make sure your journey is as safe as possible.