AVAILABLE PAYMENT METHODS

svg{fill:#000000} CLICK TO CALL NOW (630) 392-684

How to Safely Tow Heavy Loads in Adverse Weather Conditions

Although the weather has no bearing on your car’s ability to pull a heavy container, it has a big impact on how safely you can tow. Cold temperatures can thicken fluids and make it more difficult for the engine to run. Hot temperatures can overheat engines and restrict power. There is also rain and snow affecting traction, making it more challenging to tow big goods safely. Gusts of wind can cause instability and swaying in the trailer.

To ensure safe and successful trips, drivers must consider weather conditions when determining their towing capacity and make the necessary adjustments. There’s a service for heavy-duty towing in Lemont, IL, that we can rely on for the safe transport of our load. Towing must be done safely, and this requires an understanding of how weather and topography affect it. Let’s cover some of those towing fundamentals.

 

Check Weather Condition

Before towing, be sure to check the weather and traffic reports. If there is a likelihood of heavy rain or significant snowfall, or if the roads are predicted to be particularly treacherous, you might want to postpone your towing if it can be helped. There are situations, however, where traveling in these circumstances may be unavoidable. If that’s the case, drive cautiously, especially on slippery roads.

Drive Slowly

As a general rule, drive slowly. Don’t get carried away in believing that because what you’re towing is firmly hooked, you can let go a bit. Extra caution is required when the road is wet or has been snowed on. Two very important things to remember are to drive slightly slower than the posted speed limit and to give yourself plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Give yourself extra time to stop.

Secure Your Trailer with a Load Equalizing Hitch

We’re talking about a device that’s more commonly known as a weight distribution hitch. It’s an apparatus that evenly distributes a towed vehicle’s weight across all four wheels of the tow truck. This is crucial when doing heavy-duty service. First, it lessens the tire’s wear and tear. Second, it helps counter dangerous swaying or shifting that can happen on slippery roadways due to unequal weight distribution.

Strap Snow Chains to the Tires or Use Snow Tires

Your tires will have more grip in snowy weather if you add snow chains to them. Towing securely depends on traction, either you have snow chains or you should think about buying snow tires. They will provide more traction and help us navigate the winter weather safely. Needless to say, roadways become hazardous when snow and ice are present.

Guard Against Strong Winds

When wind speeds increase, the force on the vehicle and trailer can cause instability and sway. This will make it more difficult to drive the vehicle. In severe cases, wind gusts can even cause the trailer to tip over. While towing in windy circumstances, it’s crucial to drive slower, double our usual safe distance from other cars, and be alert for sudden gusts of wind.

Deal With Slippery Conditions Effectively

Use Low Gear
Apply Light Pressure on the Brakes
Don’t Oversteer
Avoid Abrupt Changes in Speed or Direction
Increase Distance From the Vehicle Ahead

Drive Defensively

Drivers who actively lessen the risks connected with driving are said to practice defensive driving. By driving safely and steadily, we lessen the risk of an accident and can even save money on fuel and car maintenance. Be a defensive driver by remaining alert and being prepared for the unexpected. It’s important to remain in this mode when we’re towing a heavy load.

Whether it’s heavy-duty towing in Lemont, IL, or wherever else you may need such service, keep Classic Towing in mind. We are not only into light, medium, or heavy towing; we also have Landoll trailers that can transport disabled vehicles, shipping containers, and heavy construction equipment. We are into roadside assistance services as well. Visit our website now to learn more about our services, or call 630-392-6844.