How often do you check your trailer’s safety? To mark Trailer Safety Week from June 7-13, MGS Trailer Store urges operators and fleet managers to take a closer look at their trailer reliability.
What Is Trailer Safety Week?
Trailer Safety Week, organized by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM), is an initiative dedicated to nationwide trailer safety education and awareness. This week, held in early June, is about connecting trailer dealers, manufacturers and end-users to build a culture of safety.
How Is MGS Trailer Store Taking Part?
Beyond working with NATM, MGS Trailer Store is honoring Trailer Safety Week with a one-week 10% discount on all safety-related items, including bearing packs and trailer improvement work. Contact our service center to claim your savings on services.
We also promote trailer safety year-round. Our knowledgeable staff helps customers choose the right trailer and answers questions to ensure confidence on the road. Reach out to our experts for help with trailer safety.
Why Is This Week Important?
According to NATM, one million new trailers are added to U.S. roads each year, and knowing how to tow cargo safely is essential to minimizing the risk of accidents. Some hazards include increased risk of trailer sway, tire blowouts and jackknifing, especially when operated by inexperienced drivers. Poorly secured cargo can also slip from trailers, potentially causing collisions.
While professional drivers are taught trailer safety, noncommercial drivers may not be. This week serves to remind everyone that it’s their responsibility to brush up on best practices.
Top Trailer Safety Tips for Trailer Safety Week
At MGS Trailer Store, we’re always willing to talk safety, and we hope you’ll implement these best practices:
- Always read your trailer manual first: It explains safe loading, weight limits, cargo distribution and other essential guidelines for your specific model.
- Load securely: Never exceed the weight limits of your manual or ignore the instructions. Use the appropriate securement straps to keep your cargo in place.
- Hitch your trailer correctly: Use safety chains in a crossing pattern and an appropriate hitch class.
- Use the right trailer for the right job: Pick models designed for your cargo — car trailers for cars, ATV trailers for ATVs and so on.
- Always do an inspection: Before driving, check that all the lights, brakes and electrical connections work. Check for signs of damage or tire problems and fix these before heading out. Take your trailer in for regular service appointments, based on how often you use it and according to your owner’s manual.
- Drive carefully: Hauling cargo requires extra care. Plan your route and check for restrictions on bridges and in tunnels. Put away distractions and drive at a steady speed, carefully paying attention to the traffic around you.
Celebrate With MGS Trailer Store
MGS Trailer Store of Denver, Pennsylvania, serves all hauling needs in the Mid-Atlantic Region and nationally. We’re ISO 9001:2015 certified and can even develop custom trailers for your needs. We’re your experts in trailer safety, with a legacy dating back to 1962 through our parent company.
Ready to enhance trailer safety? Contact MGS Trailer Store for trailers, parts, service and your 10% discount.