2024-07-22 13:00:00
Driving on the road with your vehicle is one of the most common activities during the days off in summer, and getting to your destination involves carrying a large load. Thus, it is becoming increasingly common to attach a trailer to transport larger items. Therefore, you should know that the DGT has launched an awareness campaign to warn about the risks of hauling these attachments and how to drive to enhance your safety.
It’s likely that you are already planning your summer vacation now that the sun is shining and the weather is starting to get hotter than usual. One of the modes of transportation most used for these types of trips is the car, often accompanied by a trailer when transporting goods of considerable size. This can be beneficial for carrying more luggage if you plan to engage in activities at the beach or in the mountains.
However, towing a trailer is not an easy task, as it requires good skill and expertise behind the wheel. DGT has raised the alarm to alert about the dangers of these cargo vehicles when you start your road trip and what the most useful tips are to ensure that your journey is comfortable and safe.
Watch out for sudden braking
Many of us know that driving with a trailer increases the risk of accidents on the road if we do not take the necessary precautions, as it requires more emphasis on activating all five senses.
One of the most common problems is during braking, where consideration must be given to the weight and length of the vehicle being driven when a trailer is involved. In this case, braking distance can increase by up to 20%, according to DGT experts. Therefore, the safety space should be increased, especially when congestion is anticipated.
Overtaking and turns
Another of the riskiest situations on the road occurs at the exact moment of executing an overtaking maneuver. If it is risky for a traditional car, the chances of causing an accident rise with a trailer hitched to the back.
Here, speed and acceleration test the car’s power, as the maneuver will take considerable time to overtake the vehicle on the right, since the driver will not only need to press the accelerator harder but also manage the weight and length of the trailer under adverse weather conditions, since wind force can play a nasty trick.
In terms of turns, roads with sharp curves, roundabouts, and changes of direction require greater speed control. It is also necessary to have greater anticipation. Any abrupt turn could lead to the trailer overturning and causing an accident.
Reversing
Finally, to prevent the trailer from becoming unhitched, reversing must be conducted as carefully as possible. In this sense, the trailer moves in the opposite direction to which we turn, so it is essential to have good skill to perform such maneuvers and avoid it crossing.
Therefore, if you are not familiar with this, it is advisable to practice in an open area without traffic to gain enough experience to avoid any serious incidents on the road.
As summer approaches, many travelers are gearing up for road trips, often opting to tow a trailer to accommodate their larger cargo needs. This trend suggests a growing interest in road safety and efficiency when it comes to towing. With the DGT’s recent campaign highlighting the importance of safe towing practices, several potential future trends may emerge within this space.
Enhanced Driver Education Programs
As incidents involving trailers on the road increase, one likely trend is the expansion of driver education programs focused specifically on towing practices. These programs could include practical workshops that teach drivers the nuances of handling a trailer, such as managing braking distances and executing safe turns. Incorporating virtual reality technology into these programs could offer a risk-free environment for learning.
Advanced Towing Technology
With advancements in automotive technology, we can expect a rise in vehicles equipped with smart towing features. Innovations like automatic braking assistance and lane-keeping technologies designed specifically for trailers could help mitigate many of the risks associated with towing. These features would improve overall road safety and provide peace of mind for drivers.
Increased Regulations and Safety Standards
As awareness grows regarding the dangers of towing, both governmental and transportation agencies may implement stricter regulations and safety standards. This could include mandatory towing training, requirements for trailer brakes, and regular inspections. Ultimately, these regulations would aim to enhance the safety of both drivers and other road users.
Rise of Sustainable Travel Options
As more people become environmentally conscious, we may see a shift towards more sustainable travel methods. This may include the use of lightweight trailers made from recycled materials, as well as electric vehicles capable of towing. The demand for eco-friendly options could redefine how people approach summer travel, making it safer and more sustainable.
Online Resources and Communities
The power of online communities and resources is likely to grow, providing platforms where experienced travelers can share tips and best practices for towing. Social media groups and forums dedicated to caravan enthusiasts could emerge as vital information hubs, fostering a culture of safety and knowledge sharing among travelers.
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