Driving with a Trailer; Following Distance; Passing- Page 215

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Driving with a Trailer

Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get
to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
handling and braking with the added weight of the
trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you 
are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly 
as responsive as your vehicle is by itself.

Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform
(and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector,
lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has
electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving 
and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be
sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.

During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the
load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes
are still working.

Following Distance

Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as 
you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer.
This can help you avoid situations that require heavy
braking and sudden turns.

Passing

You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when
you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good 
deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond 
the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane.

Backing Up

Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.
Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that 
hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move
your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, 
if possible, have someone guide you.