Have you ever driven with a trailer?

It is definitely a skill that comes in handy if you are moving, buying furniture, transporting a lawnmower, or hauling a boat or RV.

Before you hit the road with a trailer in tow, consider these tips:

• Consult the owner’s manual for your vehicle so that you know how much weight your vehicle can haul.
• Practice pulling in and out of your driveway and navigating quiet roads before attempting to drive in heavy traffic.
• The trailer size is directly related to the number of adjustments you will need to make while driving with it.
• Make sure the trailer is properly attached.  Check the safety chains, lights and license plates.
• Keep a greater distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.  It takes longer to slow down and stop with a trailer in tow.
• Take wider turns.  Your vehicle is double its normal length now that you have the trailer attached.
• Driving in reverse with a trailer is a skill that takes a lot of practice.  Expect to make adjustments the first few times you drive in reverse.
• Take it slow.  Be safe a drive a little below the posted speed limit.
• Parking lots may be difficult.  You may not be able to park in a small parking lot at all.  Park in an area of the lot where there are few vehicles.

As with anything, practice makes perfect!