DID YOU KNOW?
From 1975 to 2013, more than 17,000 people were killed in crashes involving towed vehicles. [2] One of the leading causes? Improper weight distribution. Towing safely is about more than just hooking up a trailer — it's about balance, physics, and knowing your limits.
KNOW THE RISK
- Each year, more than 50,000 towing-related accidents occur on U.S. roads. Many of them stem from uneven or excessive trailer weight. [2]
- Poor weight distribution can cause trailer sway, loss of traction, poor braking, and steering control issues. These risks are amplified at highway speeds or in windy conditions.
- Improper towing setups increase the likelihood of jackknifing, rollovers, and loss of vehicle control — putting not just the driver, but others at risk.
HELPFUL TIPS
1. Know Your Limits
- Never tow more than the vehicle or hitch is rated for. Check your owner’s manual and trailer documentation before every trip.
2. Locate Your GVWR
- The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is typically located on the driver door sill. This includes your vehicle’s weight plus cargo and trailer tongue weight. [3]
3. Balance Your Load
- Aim for 60% of the load to be positioned over the front half of the trailer. Improperly balanced loads cause sway and instability. [3]
4. Check Tongue Weight
- The tongue weight (downward force on the hitch ball) should be 10–15% of the total trailer weight. Too much or too little can create dangerous handling conditions. [3]
TOWING SAFETY REMINDER
Towing isn’t just about strength — it’s about control. Before you haul, inspect your setup, understand your limits, and distribute the weight correctly. A properly loaded trailer is a safer trailer.