The IAM’s driving expert has provided a list of recommendations for when towing a vehicle.
The summer is not far away and many drivers across the UK will look to enjoy the season by completing a new car deal and setting off on holiday.
A fair amount of these people will use their vehicle to tow another, be it a caravan, horsebox or boat.
Such individuals should pay close attention to new advice that has been released by road safety charity IAM. Peter Rodger – described by the group as Britain's top advanced driver – has drawn up a number of guidelines drivers should follow when towing this summer.
Firstly, he advised the weight of the towed vehicle must not exceed 85 per cent of the car's kerb weight, as this could cause instability. Meanwhile, drivers should always carefully check the connection between the two is secure, both before setting off and after travelling a short distance.
"Whether you're towing a speedboat, a horsebox, a caravan or another car, there are certain rules which must be applied. It is important to recognise the challenges which come with having to control not just one vehicle, but two," Mr Rodger stated.
Other recommendations he made include ensuring a car's extra rear lights are connected and fully functional and using an illuminated number plate at the rear of the towed unit. The driving expert also said tyre pressure should be checked on both vehicles before leaving.
He advises drivers to increase the stopping distance between themselves and other cars appropriately, while they should allocate more time for overtaking and other manoeuvres such as parking, pulling into traffic streams and changing lanes.
Mr Rodger said the use of mirrors is important, with extended door mirrors a useful means of compensating for the fact the rear mirror view is obscured by the towed unit.
Finally, he advised drivers to remember the speed limit is usually reduced when towing and to be courteous to other drivers by allowing them to pass.