When it comes to renting or buying an enclosed trailer, there's more to it than just the hook-up, especially if you're going to be towing it during the winter. Snow and ice can make trailer towing particularly hazardous. This is particularly true if you've never towed a trailer before. To keep yourself safe while on the road, here for three safety precautions you should take. 

Always Conduct Pre-Trip Inspections

Before you head out on the road, you should always conduct a pre-trip inspection. Thoroughly inspecting your trailer before each use will allow you to catch problems before they occur. 

Tires

The first item on your checklist should be your tires. Don't just stop at the pressure. You'll also need to check the tread. Worn-out tires will make you susceptible to blow-outs – which can have disastrous results when you're towing a trailer. 

Lights

The second item on your checklist should be the lights. Test your brake lights and turn signals to ensure that they are functioning properly. You should also ensure that your lights are visible, which may require you to clean the protective covering over the bulbs. 

Load Distribution

Finally, you need to check the load distribution inside your trailer. Uneven load distribution can cause your trailer to lean heavier on one side, which can cause it to tip over on tight turns. For maximum safety, your load should be evenly distributed across the trailer. It's also important that you know how much weight your trailer can hold. This will prevent dangerous overload conditions. 

Avoid Excessive Speed

If you've never hauled a trailer before, don't take chances on your first trip. While you're towing your trailer, take it slow. Reduce your speed, especially in high-traffic conditions. Always leave at least one cars distance between you and the car in front of you. Taking these precautions will help you avoid collisions. 

Take Precautions Through Mountainous Regions

If you're going to be traveling through mountainous terrain, it's important to remember hills can be hazardous when pulling a trailer. When traveling downhill, reduce your speed and drop down into a lower gear. This will prevent you from gaining too much speed and losing control of your vehicle. When traveling uphill, avoid applying the brake unless necessary. This is particularly important if you're traveling on snow-covered, or icy roads. Applying the brakes will cause you to lose traction, which could result in your vehicle sliding backwards on the road. If you do need to slow down, take your foot of the gas pedal and reduce your speed slowly.

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