Transporting livestock thoughts on trailers

John Sones gives top towing tips and looks at the legalities

- John Sones

It should be obvious that trailers need to be firmly attached to the vehicle but this does involve maintenance and checks to ensure that it is completely safe. There's a lot of weight on that tow bar and hitch - and roads are increasingly bumpy with an increase in potholes almost everywhere.

Checks attaching the trailer include making sure the tow ball and tow hitch are a good fit and the latch and safety chain are secured in place. On larger trailers, the safety chain will operate the emergency brake if the trailer become s disconnected. Firmly connect the trailer lights plug into the socket and check that all lights and indicators are working correctly which may require some assistance. Also ensure that the number plate on the trailer matches the towing vehicle.

WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG? CHECK AND CHECK AGAIN

Problems I have had include a mismatch between the plug and socket which was easily solved by buying an adaptor. Also I was so glad that I had added a fog light to the trailer board when I was off to the abattoir in thick fog!