3 Mistakes To Avoid While Towing A Vehicle
Although the idea of towing another vehicle might seem simple, it is actually a complex operation that could lead to serious consequences if not done properly. Safety is paramount when it comes to towing and if you do not know the ins and outs of towing, both cars could be damaged. To help you successfully tow another vehicle, here are some towing mistakes to avoid.
Failing to Check the Tow Length
The length of your vehicle and the car being towed have to meet certain requirements. The allowed length of the combined vehicles cannot exceed the limit set by the state in which you are traveling. Length restrictions are designed to keep you and other vehicles on the road safe.
Before traveling, measure both your vehicle and the other car. Check the measurements against your state's Department of Transportation limits. If the combined length exceeds the state's limit, you could be fined if pulled over by law enforcement.
If you are traveling through various states, you need to check the limits for each state to determine if you can legally tow the other vehicle without the risk of a fine.
Exceeding the Recommended Weight Limits
Every towing vehicle has restrictions on the weight they can safely carry. Before towing, you need to review those restrictions and determine if the weight of the other vehicle is within the limits.
Towing a vehicle that exceeds the recommended weights can lead to a range of problems, including broken hitches and blown-out shocks. It can also make it difficult to maintain control over both vehicles. The vehicles could easily tip over when making a turn if the weight limits are exceeded.
Being Unfamiliar With Your Insurance Policy
Accidents can happen and it is important that you have adequate coverage on the road. Some insurance policies do not automatically extend coverage to other vehicles that are being towed. If the other vehicle is covered, there might be restrictions placed on exactly what is covered.
Before hitching another vehicle to yours, review your insurance policy to ensure that the tow is covered. If you are unsure, call your insurance agent and find out.
Avoiding a towing incident takes experience and an awareness of all the pitfalls you could face. If you are leery of towing another vehicle due to safety concerns, consult with a professional towing service. An experienced driver can hitch the other vehicle up properly and ensure it reaches its destination without issue. For more information on towing services in general, contact companies like Stuckman Salvage, Inc.