Towing Safety Checklist – Avoid Accidents and Fines

Towing a trailer isn’t just about hooking it up and hitting the road — it’s about making sure you, your load, and other road users stay safe. A poorly secured trailer or ignored safety checks can lead to accidents, fines, and even licence points.

At M O Toole Trailers, we’ve put together this simple towing safety checklist so you can travel with confidence, knowing you’re legal, secure, and ready for the road.

1. Check Your Licence and Weight Limits

2. Inspect Your Trailer Before Every Trip

  • Tyres: Check tread depth (min. 1.6mm) and look for cracks or bulges.

  • Lights: Test brake lights, indicators, and number plate lights.

  • Brakes: Ensure the braking system is working correctly.

  • Coupling & Hitch: Make sure it’s locked and secure.

3. Secure Your Load Properly

  • Distribute weight evenly to avoid trailer sway.

  • Use straps, nets, or partitions to secure items or animals.

  • Never overload — stay within the trailer’s MAM.

4. Check Safety Chains or Breakaway Cable

  • Safety chains should be crossed under the hitch (if applicable) to catch it in case of detachment.

  • Breakaway cables must be properly attached to the towing vehicle, not the tow ball.

5. Adjust Your Driving Style

  • Increase following distance to allow for longer stopping distances.

  • Take corners wider to avoid clipping kerbs.

  • Reduce speed — even if limits are higher, slower is safer when towing.

6. Be Aware of Legal Requirements

  • Correct number plate matching the towing vehicle.

  • Working lights and reflectors.

  • DOE certificate if required for your trailer type.

7. Weather Considerations

  • In wet or windy conditions, reduce speed further.

  • Avoid sudden steering movements in high winds.

  • In icy conditions, ensure you have winter tyres or chains if necessary.

8. Know Your Stopping & Parking Rules

  • Never park where your trailer blocks visibility for other drivers.

  • When parking on a slope, use chocks and keep the vehicle in gear or park mode.

FAQs

Q: How often should I do a safety check?
Before every trip, no matter how short. A quick 5–10 minute check can prevent accidents.

Q: Can I tow at motorway speeds in Ireland?
No — trailers are limited to 80 km/h on motorways and national roads.

Q: What should I do if my trailer starts to sway?
Stay calm, gently ease off the accelerator, and avoid sharp steering movements.

A trailer is only as safe as the checks you do before setting off. By following this towing safety checklist, you’ll reduce the risk of accidents, stay on the right side of the law, and protect your cargo — whether that’s livestock, equipment, or goods.

At M O Toole Trailers, we don’t just sell trailers — we’re here to make sure you tow them safely.

👉 Contact us for expert advice, servicing, and road-ready trailer checks.

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