Tire Inflation
Follow the recommendations of your towing vehicle and trailer manufacturers. Check tire pressures frequently. It is recommend that you use bias-ply trailer tires of adequate capacity designed for trailer use only.


Check Your Equipment
Check hitch ball, coupler, safety chains, retaining pins and clips, and all other connections EVERY TIME YOU TOW. Proceed only when you're sure everything is secure. Re-check at fuel and rest stops.


Trailer Lights, Turn Signals, Electric Brakes, and Breakaway Switch Connections
Make these safety-critical connections EVERY TIME YOU TOW, no matter how short the trip. Check operation before getting on the road.


Trailer Loading
Proper trailer loading is your first-line defense against sway. Place heavy objects on the floor ahead of the axle. Balance the load side-to-side. Secure it to prevent shifting. Tongue weight should be 10-15 percent of gross trailer weight for most trailers. Too low a percentage of tongue weight can cause sway. Reduce speed if your trailer sways. Maintain a lower speed until you can safely stop, check your loading and equipment. LOAD THE TRAILER HEAVIER IN FRONT.


No Passengers in Trailers
Never allow people in trailers while towing, under any circumstances.


Driving
Emphasize good driving habits while towing. The additional weight affects acceleration and braking. Allow extra time for passing, stopping and changing lanes. Severe bumps can damage your towing vehicle, hitch and trailer. Drive slowly on rough roads. STOP AND MAKE A THOROUGH INSPECTION IF ANY PART OF YOUR TOWING SYSTEM STRIKES THE ROAD. CORRECT ANY PROBLEMS BEFORE RESUMING TRAVEL.