Understanding towing safety can be challenging without good industry knowledge. However, whether you're selecting a towing service provider or preparing for a tow, it's crucial to ready your vehicle for safe towing and ensure that the towing services you engage meet high standards.

In this guide, we'll highlight the key towing safety standards to consider and provide tips on how to ensure you're well-prepared.

How to safely tow a truck?

Towing a truck can be complex and carries inherent risks, but there are steps you can take to mitigate them. First, ensure your truck is capable of handling the towing task by checking its size, engine power, transmission type, wheelbase length, and payload capacity.

Make sure it's equipped with the proper braking system and wiring for towing lights and brakes to ensure a safe tow. When towing, maintain a steady speed, especially on inclines, and use lower gears when going uphill.

Avoid sharp turns, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and exercise good judgment while driving.

What is the proper safety device for towing?

A safety chain or cable is a critical safety measure when towing a vehicle or trailer. It helps prevent runaway trailers in case they become disconnected during transit, which can happen due to various reasons like a faulty hitch connection or broken straps.

These cables must be securely attached at both ends using clips. It's also important to ensure there's enough slack in each cable to prevent the vehicle from jerking when turning, ensuring a safe towing experience.

What to avoid when towing?

When towing, it's crucial to adhere to certain rules of thumb to ensure safety on the road. Here's what you should always keep in mind:

1.     Never exceed the maximum load capacity of your tow vehicle.

2.     Avoid towing excessive weight beyond your vehicle's capabilities.

3.     Maintain a steady speed and use lower gears when ascending hills.

4.     Steer clear of sharp turns that could destabilize your tow.

5.     Keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road.

6.     Check all brake lights are working before setting off.

7.     Exercise good judgment and caution while driving.

How to prepare my car for towing?

Before starting any towing, it's crucial to properly prepare your vehicle. Here's what you should do:

1.    Check tire pressure to ensure optimal control of the tow vehicle, particularly during long journeys with heavy loads.

2.    Verify that all lights, especially brake lights, are functioning properly. Adequate brake lights are vital for safe stopping when hauling a trailer. Replace any faulty bulbs immediately if necessary.

3.    Ensure that all fluid levels, such as oil and coolant, are at the correct levels. Inadequate fluid levels could lead to significant damage and costly repairs later on.

By applying these steps, you can enhance towing safety and minimize the risk of accidents or breakdowns during your journey.

About Us

My Big Tow is a professional towing company serving successfully in St. Albert and around. If you need towing in an emergency, we are here for your help. We provide 24-hour towing service in St. Albert. Contact us now.