Safely Hauling Your Trailer in the Snow
The winter landscapes in Utah are spectacular to behold, but winter weather can be hazardous for even the most experienced drivers. Hauling a trailer in the snow is not an easy challenge, which is why our team at Mountain West Trailers put this guide together to help you stay safe on snowy roads with your trailer.
Looking for trailers for sale in Utah? Look no further than Mountain West Trailers. You can find a wide selection of new and used models at our dealership in Heber City, UT, east of Salt Lake City. Our friendly staff can help you track down a trailer that fits your needs and budget.
Choose the Right Tires for the Job
Your best option is to get a good set of snow tires for both your trailer and tow vehicle. Snow tires are designed to better handle the slippery conditions that come with snow and ice. Their extra grippy tread allows you to stop, start, and turn without sliding around.
Your next-best option is to install chains on your tow vehicle and trailer tires. Chains have the advantage of being easy to store and bring with you in case of a surprise snow shower.
Install Trailer Brakes
If your trailer doesn’t have its own built-in brakes already, it’s important to get those installed before tackling snowy roads. Trailer brakes will make for safer and easier stopping. Without trailer brakes, the entire weight of your trailer and its cargo slams into the back of your tow vehicle every time you pull to a stop. This can cause you to lose traction on slippery roads.
Familiarize yourself with your brake controller’s manual override. This is usually a squeeze bar, slide, or button. You will need the manual override in fishtail situations, when your trailer brakes can help get you back in control.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Of course, nobody wants to think about getting stranded in a snowstorm. But when it comes to winter weather here in Utah, it pays to be prepared! If you find yourself in an accident or simply stuck in the snow, a well-stocked emergency kit can save the day. Your winter emergency kit should include flares, extra water, first-aid supplies, extra warm clothes, ice scrapers, and tire traction mats. You may also want to include boot warmers and space blankets for staying warm.
Load Wisely
You should maintain good trailering practices year round, but it’s especially important in winter, when an overloaded or poorly loaded trailer presents an even greater safety risk. Make sure the weight of your cargo is evenly distributed, and make use of a weight distribution hitch. Always double check that the weight of your fully loaded trailer falls well within the GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) of your tow vehicle.
Stay in Control
Fishtailing and jackknifing are to be avoided at all costs. Take turns carefully, braking slowly and early, to maintain full control. Once that slipping and swaying begins, it’s hard to get back on track. If you find yourself fishtailing, the best course of action is to accelerate to straighten out, then gently step on the brake. Avoid slamming the brakes, which will only make the situation worse. If you find yourself jackknifing, simply stay calm and maintain direction.
Following all these tips will give you the best shot at staying safe when hauling your trailer this winter! Does your trailer need a little work before it’s ready for its winter debut? Bring it into our service shop at Mountain West Trailers. We take pride in offering quality products and services to our community in Heber City, UT.