Driving Distracted with a horse trailer

Driving Distracted with a Horse Trailer

According to AAA, distracted driving, which includes the use of cell phones, is a major factor in car crashes. Approximately 4,000 to 8,000 crashes occur daily in the U.S., all resulting from distracted driving. One has to wonder how many of those crashes involved vehicles towing a horse trailer.

Driving distractions are more than just a driver chatting on a cell phone or texting. Conversing with a passenger, attending to a child or a pet, eating a sandwich, or gazing at something outside of the vehicle all take your attention off of the task at hand. And frequently drivers commit two or more of these sins simultaneously!

We all can agree that an inattentive driver is a peril on the road. Keeping yourself safe when you’re behind the wheel is always important, but that importance multiplies when pulling a horse trailer.

That said, the best way to protect yourself and your livestock while hauling is to stay focused on driving and save the multitasking for later.

Focused driving includes avoiding distractions like the ones mentioned earlier, but when you’re towing, you need to do even more. For example, be aware of the length of your rig so that you give yourself plenty of room when changing lanes or when entering or exiting a highway. In addition, remember to use your turn signals when turning, instead of making other drivers guess which way you’re going.

Brush up on driving hand signals. If you suddenly lose your brake lights or directionals, you’ll still need a way to warn others of your next move.

And last of all; just be aware of your surroundings. If you see someone who’s driving erratically, keep your distance. Better to be safe than sorry.

Keeping yourself out of trouble on the road really just boils down to common sense. If you need to use the cell phone while you’re on the road, pull over and then make the call. Instead of eating lunch and driving, factor in extra time so you can stop and eat. Remember, in those few seconds that you take your eyes off the road, anything can happen. Don’t let yourself become a statistic of AAA.