Preventing Trailer Sway

Trailer sway is a danger any time you’re towing something sizable. Staying calm and in control is the most important part of coming out of the sway safely, but avoiding it altogether is even better. We here at Southern Trailer Works want to keep you and your cargo safe, so we’ve put together some tips for preventing trailer sway. If you want more advice, or you’d like to see the trailers we have for sale, contact our store in Schriever, Louisiana, today!

Thorough Inspection

Step one is to give your tow vehicle and your trailer a thorough once-over before you head out. Tiny maintenance issues can contribute to trailer sway, so make sure you go over everything from tire pressure to your brakes. Verify that every control and function is working how it should before you hit the road.

Proper Weight Distribution

The way you load your trailer is central to a safe and uneventful drive. Try to evenly distribute the weight of your cargo from left to right and from front to back. Make sure you tie down any and all loose objects or material, as well, to keep the weight from shifting mid-drive and changing the weight distribution entirely. 

Sway Control Devices

For frequent travelers and folks who rely on trailers for work, consider investing in a friction sway control device. As you might have guessed from the name, these gadgets help you prevent and control trailer sway. It places resistance on the connections between the trailer and tow vehicle, which lowers the effects of gusts of wind and sharp turns on the trailer. Trailers with a higher tongue weight might require two of these, one on each side of the hitch. 

Wind Considerations

No matter how hardy your trailer is, a windy day can be its worst enemy. High winds are a major source of trailer sway, so when possible, avoid towing when the wind is strong. If that’s not an option, focus on driving as steadily as possible. Avoid sharp braking or tight turns, and whenever you need to slow, decrease your speed as gradually as possible while driving in a straight line. 

In a worst-case scenario, there’s no shame in pulling over to avoid an accident. Your cargo’s safety, and your safety in particular, is more important than getting to your destination as quickly as possible. 

We hope these tips help you prevent trailer sway! If you have any questions, or if you’re on the hunt for a new trailer to try these tips with, contact us at Southern Trailer Works. We proudly serve the people of Thibodaux and New Orleans, Louisiana—let us serve you today!