Are you a seasoned trailer tower? Even the most experienced drivers are not immune to the dangers of trailer sway. But don't worry, by understanding the key causes and taking preventative measures, you can drastically reduce the risk of trailer sway. From gusty winds to an improper weight distribution hitch, there are a variety of factors that can cause trailer sway. Keep reading to discover the most common causes of trailer sway and our top five tips for preventing it. With this knowledge, you'll be able to hit the road with confidence, knowing you've done everything you can to keep your trailer steady.

What are the top causes of trailer sway?

Are you wondering what causes trailer sway and how to prevent it? While there may not be one specific leading cause, a combination of factors can put your trailer at risk. From windy conditions to improper weight distribution, these are some of the top culprits that can lead to trailer sway. Keep reading to find out what causes trailer sway and how to keep your trailer steady on the road.

1) High wind gusts

"Trailer sway can be a result of crosswinds...The front of trailers are aerodynamic to improve towing gas mileage, but the sides aren't. A 35-mph crosswind could put as much as 3,440 pounds of force pushing on the side of a large trailer."
- Nationwide

Buckle up, folks! High wind gusts can be a real nightmare for those hauling trailers. Crosswinds and winds over 20 mph can send your trailer into a dangerous sway. But it's not just empty trailers that are at risk - even heavy loads can't always protect you from the dangers of windy weather. So, don't let your guard down - stay alert and take extra precautions to ensure a safe trip.

2) Careless loading practices

Are you guilty of haphazardly loading your trailer? Be careful - your cargo loading practices can make all the difference when it comes to the stability of your trailer. Forgetting to secure your cargo properly can cause it to shift and create a dangerous sway. And loading all your heavy items in one area can also cause an imbalance, putting you at risk. So, take the time to load your trailer with care and attention to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

3) A poorly adjusted weight distribution hitch

Are you ready to hit the road with your trusty trailer in tow? But wait - have you properly adjusted your weight distribution hitch? This little step can make a big difference in the safety of your journey. A poorly adjusted hitch can throw off your trailer's tongue weight, leading to a swaying, unstable ride. But no worries, by ensuring your trailer's tongue weight is in the middle range of your weight distribution, you'll be on your way to a smooth and stable trip.

4) A combination of the factors above

Are you ready for the ultimate test of trailer stability? When multiple factors come into play, the stakes are high and the risk of swaying increases dramatically. Just ask Chuck and Gail, seasoned trailer owners, who experienced the perfect storm of dangerous driving conditions. They were cruising down a hill, fighting against strong crosswinds and high speeds, when a passing semi-truck sent their trailer into a tailspin. They were lucky to escape with just a totaled trailer and no permanent injuries, but it serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of not being aware of the risks. So, stay alert, and be prepared for the unexpected, to ensure a safe and successful journey.

"They had towed all over the country with no issues at all. Then one day they were coming fast down a hill, in a crosswind, when a big semi went by really fast. Fortunately nobody was coming the other way as they lost it and rolled everything several times. TT and TV totaled, pieces blocked both lanes, but no permanent injuries."
- Chuck and Gail, Trailer Owners and RV.net Forum Members

5) Uneven road conditions

Get ready for a bumpy ride! Poor road conditions and construction work can make for a treacherous journey, especially for those hauling trailers. Uneven pavement, sudden dips and bumps can cause your trailer's tires to sway or pull to one side of the road. And with median barriers, it's harder to correct the situation. This can lead to damage to your vehicle and trailer and make for a very stressful trip. So, be prepared and stay alert for any potential hazards on the road, to ensure a safe and successful journey.

What steps can you take to prevent trailer sway?

"RVs are large vehicles. Surprisingly, they usually don't require any kind of training or special license to operate. As RVers it's up to us to learn the best ways to avoid trailer sway wrecks and other RV accidents on the highway."
- Rene Agredano, RVLife Magazine

Are you ready to hit the road with your RV but worried about trailer sway? Don't worry, you're not alone! As Rene Agredano from RVLife Magazine says, "It's up to us to learn the best ways to avoid trailer sway wrecks and other RV accidents on the highway." As the operator of an RV, it is your responsibility to take the necessary measures to prevent trailer sway. By following these key steps before, during, and after your trip, you'll be well on your way to a smooth and safe journey. So, don't let trailer sway hold you back, take control of your RV and hit the road with confidence!

1) Maintain your trailer and your vehicle

"Before driving, make sure your vehicle maintenance and trailer maintenance are current. This is very important because towing puts additional stress on the tow vehicle."
- NHTSA

Are you ready for a road trip with your trusty trailer in tow? But before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle and trailer are in tip-top shape! Regular maintenance is key to preventing trailer sway, as towing puts additional stress on your tow vehicle. So before you depart, give your vehicle and trailer a thorough check-up to ensure they're ready for the journey ahead. Trust us, it's better to be safe than sorry!

2) Take time to practice driving

Are you a newbie when it comes to towing a trailer? Don't worry, we've all been there! But inexperienced drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents, so it's important to practice before hitting the road. Take some time to get familiar with the ins and outs of driving with a trailer by taking it for a spin on some quiet back roads. This way, when you hit the expressway or other busy roads, you'll feel more confident and in control. Don't let lack of experience hold you back from your road trip dreams, get out there and practice!

3) Carefully map out your route

Are you ready to hit the road with your trailer in tow but worried about sway? Don't let it hold you back! By carefully mapping out your route, you can minimize the risk for trailer sway. Sure, the direct route might be the quickest, but sometimes it's worth taking a longer route that offers flatter roads, minimal construction, wider roads, and better weather conditions. By doing so, you'll be able to focus on enjoying your journey rather than constantly worrying about sway. So, get out your map and plan your route wisely, you'll be glad you did!

4) Drive at moderate speeds

Are you ready to hit the road and see the sights? But remember, safety first! Driving at moderate speeds can help reduce the amount of strain on your trailer and vehicle, and also make it less likely for trailer sway to occur. Plus, it gives you more time to react when you encounter uneven pavement or railroad tracks. No need to break any speed records, take your time and enjoy the journey. So, keep your foot on the gas, but not too hard, and make sure to keep an eye out for any potential hazards.

5) Avoid abrupt steering movements

Are you ready to hit the road and show off your driving skills? But remember, when it comes to towing a trailer, smooth and steady wins the race. Avoid making sudden and abrupt steering movements, as they can lead to trailer sway and put unnecessary side force on your trailer. Sure, there might be a rare occasion where a sudden maneuver is necessary, but in general, it's best to play it safe and steer smoothly. So, relax, take your time, and enjoy the journey. Happy travels!

What is the single best way to prevent trailer sway?

Are you tired of worrying about trailer sway on your road trips? Don't let it hold you back any longer! While there are many steps you can take to minimize your risk, the single most effective one is to seek the expertise of an industry expert. And that's where ProPride comes in! Our team of professionals has been working tirelessly for over two decades to eliminate trailer sway. Our ProPride 3P Trailer Sway Control Hitch has received rave reviews from thousands of satisfied customers. So, why wait? Contact us at ProPride and let us help you prevent trailer sway and make your road trips a breeze. We're excited to be your go-to resource for all your trailer hitch needs!