For the safe transportation of goods in a trailer, a number of rules must be observed, including the specifics of loading and securing, driving and parking. Transportation of oversized cargo provides a number of additional requirements.
Using a car trailer to transport goods significantly increases the difficulty of driving, which presents the likelihood of an emergency. To improve road safety, the driver of a car with a trailer must adhere to a number of rules developed on the basis of long operating experience.
Loading the trailer
In the case of transporting a large number of small loads, their placement in the trailer should be uniform so as not to overload the structure. In addition, uneven loading can cause a traffic accident while driving. The weight of the transported cargo should not exceed the value specified in the documentation for the trailer. When transporting a single cargo, it must be placed in the center of gravity above the trailer axle.
Load fastening
The fastening of the trailer to the car is carried out using a special device - a tow bar, while the contact occurs along spherical surfaces, which makes it possible to rotate the trailer relative to the vehicle in all directions.
When performing some maneuvers, a situation may arise that leads to the uncoupling of the trailer. To reduce the likelihood of an accident, the fastening of the trailer to the car is duplicated using a safety cable or chain.
Parking
To prevent the likelihood of spontaneous rolling, the wheels of the trailer are locked with locks during parking. The trailer can be parked either with the vehicle or manually.
Features of transportation of oversized cargo
Oversized cargo should not protrude beyond the trailer by the values specified in the current "Rules of the road". Oversized cargo must be marked with a special sign, and at night it must also be marked with reflective lights.
Required documents
Transportation of goods using a trailer requires the driver of the vehicle to have additional documents - a certificate of passing a technical inspection and a document confirming the ownership of the trailer or its temporary use. Third party liability insurance for a trailer is not required if you have an insurance policy for the car.
Driving
The distance between a car with a trailer and other vehicles must be twice the value established by the current "Traffic Regulations". It is also necessary to avoid abrupt maneuvers and changes of lane.
