Following Distance; Passing; Backing Up- Page 239

4-38

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.

Making Turns

NOTICE:

Making very sharp turns while trailering could
cause the trailer to come in contact with the
vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid
making very sharp turns while trailering.

When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns
than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft
shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects.
Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well 
in advance.

Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer

When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a
different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check
with your dealer. The arrows on your instrument panel
will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change.
Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash,
telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes
or stop.