Kaufman Trailers Offers Tips for Safe Towing

LEXINGTON, N.C., Aug. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- During summer months, Americans are known to take to the road to explore the outdoors and enjoy the seasonably warm weather. These activities typically cause an increase in vehicles with towing trailers; these additions are used for hauling boats, camping equipment and even a college student's possessions as they move to a new location. Despite these increases, a recent article from The Wall Street Journal highlights the dangers these trailers can present if the driver is not aware of proper technique. In the article, AutoMD reports that 71 percent of drivers with towing trailers only knew a small amount, or nothing, of towing safety practices. Kaufman Trailers, a leading supplier of a variety of towing products, recommends a few tips to ensure safe hauling.

The Wall Street Journal showcases the need for proper safety instruction, as "a surprising number of accidents involve consumers towing recreational trailers…in many cases the crashes are attributed to a lack of driver knowledge about proper towing procedures and safety precautions." Kaufman Trailers recommends that in addition to the article's recommended tips for appropriate set up, loading and maintenance procedures, drivers should be aware of cargo placement and load securement.

Kaufman Trailers suggests that drivers should always balance the load from front to back and side to side as not to have too much or too little weight on the tongue; tongue weight should never exceed ten percent of the Gross Towing Weight. In addition, one must ensure that all loaded items are properly secured inside and on the trailer. One important tip to keep in mind is that the driver is always responsible for anything that may separate from the trailer.

One of the most vital driver responsibilities is to check the level of the trailer. Kaufman Trailers explains that maintaining the trailer coupler and vehicle hitch in a level position will prevent the vehicle from fishtailing. In a recent press statement, the company noted, "When hitching up to an unloaded trailer we recommend having the trailer set up slightly higher in the front to allow for settling once the trailer is loaded. Further adjustment of trailer front height may be required as load conditions change."

While these tips are imperative to a pleasant and successful haul, Kaufman Trailers reminds all of its customers who are new to driving with a trailer to practice before they take to the road. Although it may seem time-consuming, practicing can help identify mechanical problems with the trailer and help the driver gauge control of the new addition on the vehicle.

ABOUT:

Since 1987, Kaufman Trailers has grown to become an industry leader in the manufacturing and sales of utility, gooseneck, flatbed, equipment, car and dump trailer models. The company's rigorous internal standards as well as NATM certification assure consumers of a durable, long-lasting, great investment in towing needs and vehicle additions. Kaufman Trailers is also known for offering a wide variety of products with factory-direct pricing. Committed to customer satisfaction, the company offers delivery to any location.

To view the available product line, visit www.kaufmantrailers.com.

SOURCE Kaufman Trailers