TIPS
FOR SAFE TRAILERING
(from
California Boating: A course for Safe Boating, 2001/2002 Edition,
pp.38-40; also see CA
Dept of Boating and Waterways site)
Before towing a boat on a trailer, check to see that:
- The locking mechanism on the trailer hitch is properly engaged
- Boat
tie-downs are secure and in their proper locations
- The winch cable or strap is attached and in good working condition
- Any bow safety lines or chains are secure
- Trailer safety chains are connected and crossed
- Trailer lights work
- Motors are properly braced
Driving with a trailer takes special care and requires practice. Skills that take extra practice include backing up, taking corners and judging braking distance.
- Avoid sudden stops. Always allow extra distance between your vehicle and vehicles in front of you.
- Take special care when going around corners to avoid making the trailer run over curbs and other objects.The trailer will take the turns in a tighter radius than the towing vehicle.
- It is against the law to tow a trailered vessel containing a passenger, except when engaged in launching or retrieving a vessel.
