Posts Categorized: Safety

Coupling and chains – towing safely in Australia

Coupling and chains – towing safely in Australia

Trailer Couplings Trailer Couplings must be strong enough to take the weight of a fully loaded trailer. Should be marked with the manufacturer’s name or trade mark and rated capacity. Trailer Couplings must be equipped with a positive locking mechanism. The locking mechanism must be able to be released regardless of the angle of the… Read more

Trailer Braking Requirements

Trailer Braking Requirements

The minimum braking system for a trailer depends on the type of trailer, its weight and the weight of the vehicle:  0 – 750 kg loaded weight – no brakes required. 751 – 2000 kg loaded weight – braking on both wheels on at least one axle. 2001– 4500 kg loaded weight – braking on… Read more

How much can your vehicle tow?

How much can your vehicle tow?

The loaded mass of the trailer must not exceed the lesser of:  Rated capacity of the towbar and tow coupling. Maximum towing capacity of the vehicle. Maximum carrying capacity of the trailer. Maximum rated carrying capacity of the tyres. If the vehicle manufacturer has not specified the maximum towing mass, the maximum towing mass is: … Read more

Tips for drivers when towing

Tips for drivers when towing

Here are some tips from the RMS: Driving with a trailer takes practice. Remember:  Allow for the trailer’s tendency to ‘cut-in’ on corners and curves. Allow longer distances for braking, overtaking and joining a traffic stream. When reversing, it is advisable to have someone outside the vehicle giving directions. Avoid sudden lane changes and changes… Read more

Towing Trailers and Horse Floats in NSW

Towing Trailers and Horse Floats in NSW

Some facts from Roads and Maritime Services about towing trailers and horse floats in NSW: Towing more than one trailer at a time is not allowed. Nobody is allowed to ride in or on trailers or caravans. When towing and driving on a road without street lights, drive at least 60 metres behind heavy vehicles… Read more