Chapter 12 – Vehicle Loading

When towing a trailer or caravan on a motorway:

1. Do not exceed 60 mph.
2. Do not use the right-hand lane unless directed to do so.
3. To stop a trailer or caravan from snaking you should ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.

Facts to Know

1. It is advised you inflate your tyres to a higher pressure than normal when carrying a heavy load, or when driving fast for long distances.
2. A heavy vehicle load, on a roof rack or in the car, will reduce stability and affect steering and handling.
3. The driver is always responsible for making sure the vehicle isn’t overloaded.
4. Any load must be securely fastened.
5. To improve handling when towing a caravan fit a stabilizer to the tow bar.
6. When towing a caravan never allow passengers to travel in it.
7. Using a roof rack will increase fuel consumption.
8. A child passenger under the age of three should be seated in a child seat.
9. Animals should be restrained so that they can’t interfere with the driver.

Towing a Trailer

1. Before towing a trailer check your vehicle’s handbook to learn the maximum nose weight of your vehicle’s tow ball.
2. The weight of a trailer should be no more than 85% of the car that is pulling it.
3. A breakaway cable is an additional safety device fitted to a trailer.
4. When loading a trailer spread the load evenly.
5. It is against the law to have a load that is sticking out dangerously.
6. If you park a vehicle with a trailer overnight it must have lights
7. Large vehicles may throw a lot of sprays when the roads are wet. This will make it different for you to see ahead – Drop back until you can see better, increase the separation distance.