As summer winds down, you might see an increase in highway traffic as North Carolina residents squeeze in one last trip. With this increase in travel, you also notice more vehicles are towing trailers, jet skis and boats. Driving behind one of these can be unsettling. If you notice any signs of reckless driving, it may be wise to switch lanes.
Speeding
From the driver’s standpoint, speeding takes a toll on the engine when towing a trailer. Despite the negative effects on the suspension, brakes and other systems of the vehicle, summertime travelers are oftentimes in a hurry.
In this case, you may not want to be behind or directly in front of a driver with a lead foot. Added mass to any vehicle requires more time and space to brake. Speed can also cause the trailer to sway. This is a dangerous situation for both the driver and anyone else around them. With enough momentum from the swaying, the driver could lose control of the vehicle.
Space
While the speeding of another driver is out of your control, there are measures you can take to better protect you and your family on the roads. Vehicles towing trailers and boats require extra space in general. This is especially true when the driver is making turns. There’s a higher chance of error when individuals are pulling larger loads.
To ensure safety, give cars pulling extra weight the space they need and try to be patient. Avoid reckless drivers at all cost. For example, if you see a driver is speeding, making sharp turns or notice that the trailer was hitched incorrectly, distance yourself as much as possible.