Unfortunately, there have been several accidents on the roads due to the inadequate weight distribution on trailers towed by cars. This can be very dangerous for us as well as for other vehicles in traffic. Experts have also repeatedly highlighted the importance of proper weight distribution on trailers. A poorly loaded trailer can be very dangerous and can even cause an accident.
What happens when the trailer is improperly loaded?
If the trailer is improperly loaded, the weight distribution is not good, or it is overloaded, then unfortunately even when the pace is right, the driving conditions are ideal, the traffic is sparse, trouble still can happen. Because after a while the freight starts to sway. At first gently, then stronger, it rocks the trailer and the loss of balance can lead to a huge accident. A rocking trailer can cause the car to hit the railing or to end up in the ditch. What causes the rocking of the trailer? It is caused by the centre of gravity of the trailer being behind the axle.
7+1 tips on what to look out for when loading your trailer
- The total weight of the trailer must not exceed the unladen weight of the towing vehicle. The total weight of the complete assembly must not exceed 3.5 tons. Do not overload the trailer. Furthermore, do not attach the trailer to a fully loaded car.
- Obey the speed limit, which is 70 km/h on country roads and 80 km/h on motorways.
- Attach the trailer to the car unloaded, although some of the models heavier than 750 kgs can be attached while loaded. The way to do this is by reversing the car so that the draw-bar is precisely underneath the trailer attachment.
- When cornering, pay attention to larger curves and when changing lanes, keep in mind that you need larger space and always brake earlier. An unbraked trailer loaded with half a ton of cargo pushes the car in front of it.
- Place tall objects and objects prone to falling over in the rear corners of the load compartment so that the load is evenly distributed between the two sides.
- Place heavy objects above the trailer wheels, not at the platform door.
- Evenly distribute and secure the cargo to be transported. Secure them with ratchet straps.
We have an extra tip if you were careless (do not be) and you overloaded the trailer. If the trailer sways quickly, shift down and floor the throttle, this pulls the trailer out of the swaying motion. Drive with gentle steering movements as if you were on a slippery road.
If you are wondering about what rules should be followed when using a trailer, read our blog post about it where you will find plenty of useful information.
If you need any Autóflex-Knott parts, you can buy it on our webshop or order it at rendeles@autflex.hu or on our domestic sales line at +3676502058.