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As South Africans prepare for the much-anticipated December holidays, traffic volumes on the country’s roads are already starting to spike, and traffic authorities are gearing up for the big exodus ensuring they are extra vigilant during this high-risk period.
Dewald Ranft, Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), reminds holidaymakers of the importance of road safety—especially when towing trailers, boats, or caravans. “Towing should be done correctly to prevent damage to your vehicle and reduce the risk of accidents,” he advises.
Pre-Trip Preparation
Ranft emphasises servicing your trailer, boat, or caravan before your trip. “These items often sit idle for long periods, so ensure they are inspected and serviced by a qualified repairer. Pay particular attention to brakes (if fitted), electrical components, lights, cables, wheel bearings, and tyres, especially for signs of wear or cracks.”
He also highlights the importance of understanding towing weight limits and licence requirements. “Your driver’s licence determines what vehicle you can drive and the type of trailer you can tow. Motorists should ensure their towing setup complies with the legal weight-to-vehicle ratio to avoid fines and ensure safety,” he adds.
Driving Tips for Safe Towing
• Plan for extra fuel consumption: Towing can halve your fuel efficiency. Plan fuel stops and budget for increased fuel costs.
• Adjust your speed: “Speeding is a leading cause of towing-related accidents,” says Ranft. Allow extra stopping distance and be cautious when overtaking heavy vehicles, as the resulting vortex can destabilize your setup.
• Distribute Weight Correctly: At least 60% of the load should be placed in front of the axle to avoid instability. An improperly balanced trailer can cause dangerous swaying or whiplash effects.
Assisting with Towing
Ranft advises caution when assisting stranded vehicles. “Use only approved towing equipment, such as tow bars or ropes. Avoid using the tow ball for towing, as it can break under strain, turning it into a dangerous projectile. Ensure the towing points are secure, ideally attached to the chassis, and remember that a towed vehicle without power will have heavy steering and brakes.”
“Every festive season, lives are tragically lost on our roads. This December, let’s commit to responsible towing and safe driving to protect ourselves and our loved ones,” concludes Ranft.