Towing Safety: How to Tow Like a Pro with RA Hitch & Truck Accessories in Raleigh, NC
1. Choose the Right Towing Equipment
Having the right tool for the job is essential for safe towing. The weight capacity of your
vehicle, hitch, and towing accessories must be rated to handle your trailer and cargo load.
Choosing the correct hitch size and components ensures a secure and stable connection. At
RA Hitch & Truck Accessories, we recommend CURT hitches, known for their superior
strength, reliability, and precision fit.
Not sure what you need? Visit us in Raleigh, NC to learn how to choose the right towing
setup for your vehicle.
2. Hitch Up Your Trailer Correctly
Before hitting the road, double-check all connections — including the coupler, wiring, and
safety chains. Always cross your safety chains under the trailer tongue and make sure
they’re securely attached.
If traditional coupler latches frustrate you, consider the QuickPin™ No-Latch Coupler, a
stress-free solution that uses a single pin instead of a latch.
Pro Tip: Schedule an appointment at RA Hitch & Truck Accessories for professional hitch
installation and a towing safety inspection.
3. Allow Plenty of Stopping Distance
When towing, your stopping distance increases significantly. Maintain a safe following
distance and avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking. This not only improves safety but
also helps extend the life of your brakes and transmission.
4. Anticipate Problems Ahead
The biggest cause of towing accidents is driver error. With a trailer in tow, you’ll need more
time to accelerate, stop, and turn. Stay alert, scan the road ahead, and anticipate potential
issues before they occur.
Keeping your attention on traffic flow can help you react quickly and avoid dangerous
situations.
5. Watch Out for Trailer Sway
Trailer sway can be caused by crosswinds, large passing trucks, downhill grades, or high
speeds. To reduce sway, use a weight distribution hitch or sway control device.
If sway occurs, gently ease off the gas and manually apply the trailer brakes using a brake
controller.
Need help setting up your brake controller? Our team in Raleigh, NC can install and
calibrate it for maximum control.
6. Be Extra Careful When Changing Lanes
Towing increases your blind spots, so make sure you have plenty of space before changing
lanes. Move slowly and deliberately, and consider installing tow mirrors to improve
visibility.
At RA Hitch & Truck Accessories, we carry high-quality tow mirrors and towing accessories
to make every trip safer.
7. Be Patient When Passing
Passing requires extra distance and power when towing. Avoid passing on two-lane roads,
and wait for clear, open stretches of highway. When another vehicle passes you, remain
calm — your safety is worth more than a few extra minutes on the road.
8. Stop Gradually Whenever Possible
Braking smoothly helps prevent wear on your vehicle and trailer brakes. Anticipate stops
and begin braking early.
Regularly check that your trailer brakes are properly adjusted and your brake controller is
calibrated. If you’re unsure, our technicians can test your setup at our Raleigh shop.
9. Don’t Drive In If There’s No Way Out
Tight parking lots can trap you quickly when towing. Always plan your route and choose
spots that allow for easy turnarounds. Sometimes parking farther away can save you a
major headache later.
10. Keep Your Towing Setup Secure
Trailer theft can happen anytime. Protect your investment with a trailer coupler lock and a
hitch receiver lock.
At RA Hitch & Truck Accessories, we carry a full line of trailer security products to keep
your equipment safe — even when you’re not around.
Trust RA Hitch & Truck Accessories for Expert Towing Setup in Raleigh, NC
From CURT hitch installations to towing safety inspections and accessories, RA Hitch &
Truck Accessories is your local expert. Our team provides top-quality service, precision
installations, and the best towing products in Raleigh.
Visit us today or contact us to schedule your professional hitch installation.