Lorraine Williamson
Are you planning your next summer holiday and considering using a caravan? Here’s what you need to know about attaching a trailer to your car and driving safely with it.
Driving with a trailer attached requires practice and caution. While driving straight may seem easy, maneuvers become more complex when towing a trailer, especially if it is heavy or bulky. According to Juan Ignacio Serena, head of the Drivers Training Section at the DGT, “With a trailer, any mistakes are magnified and can have more serious consequences.” It is crucial to adapt your driving to the trailer’s characteristics, including the towing vehicle, trailer dimensions, weight, speed, and weather conditions. These factors directly affect the stability and safety of the combined vehicle.
Key precautions for towing a trailer
Braking
A trailer, even if classified as ‘light’ with a weight of up to 750 kg, significantly affects the braking distance of the vehicle. Stopping a combined vehicle requires more space. “With a trailer, the braking distance can increase by up to 20%,” states Serena. Adjust your speed and increase the safety distance when driving with a trailer, especially if you have little experience.
Overtaking
When overtaking, consider the length of the combined vehicle, speed limitations, and the power of your car. Overtaking with a trailer requires more space and time. “If you are unsure when overtaking, do not proceed. An evasive maneuver with a trailer during an overtaking can destabilise the vehicle combination and cause a severe accident,” explains Serena. Be mindful of crosswinds, especially when overtaking large vehicles, as they can cause loss of stability.
Turning
Directional changes, sharp curves, and entering roundabouts require more anticipation and speed adjustment. A sudden turn with a trailer can result in a rollover. “In tight turns, slightly widen your path to avoid crossing into the opposite lane. Be cautious, as the trailer pushes, especially if loaded. Entering a curve too fast can lead to loss of control,” advises Serena.
Speed and wind
Speed limits for combined vehicles are lower. Adjust your speed based on the trailer’s weight, especially on interurban roads. Excessive speed combined with strong crosswinds can cause unexpected reactions, leading to loss of control. “If the trailer sways, release the accelerator and avoid braking,” Serena recommends.
Reversing
Reversing with a trailer can be challenging, as the trailer moves in the opposite direction of the steering wheel. Practice in a traffic-free area to gain familiarity. “Start reversing with the vehicle and trailer aligned, move slowly to avoid crossing and damaging the vehicle or connections,” advises Serena.
Dimensions
Practice maneuvers with large trailers in safe areas before hitting the road. Avoid narrow spaces until you gain confidence. Trailers taller than the car reduce rear visibility, requiring attention to height restrictions in underpasses and parking garages. Wide trailers restrict lateral visibility, necessitating additional rearview mirrors.
Load distribution
Proper load distribution in the trailer is crucial for stability. An unbalanced load affects the dynamic behaviour of the combined vehicle. “Concentrate the load around the axle. Excessive weight at the back lifts the trailer’s hitch, causing instability. Conversely, too much weight at the front lifts the car’s front end,” highlights Serena. Passengers are not allowed in trailers or caravans.
Slopes
Anticipation is key when towing on slopes. On ascents, use lower gears for extra power. On descents, use engine braking and avoid sudden movements. “Brake with the vehicle and trailer aligned to prevent the trailer from overtaking the car,” says Serena.
What trailer can I tow with my car?
Ensure your vehicle is suitable for towing. Generally, the trailer’s loaded weight should not exceed half the car’s weight, though this can vary. Check the Maximum Authorised Mass (MMA) and Maximum Towable Mass in your vehicle’s technical sheet to determine the appropriate trailer. Ensure the hitch is compatible before purchasing a trailer. Light trailers (up to 750 kg) do not need separate insurance but should be included in the towing vehicle’s policy.
Licensing requirements
The type of license needed depends on the trailer’s weight:
- Permiso B: Allows towing light trailers up to 750 kg, provided the combined vehicle weight does not exceed 3,500 kg.
- Autorización B96: An extension of the Permiso B for towing trailers over 750 kg, with combined weights between 3,500 kg and 4,250 kg, requiring a practical test.
- Permiso B+E: Required for towing combinations up to 7,000 kg, necessitating a specific theoretical test and two practical exams.
By following these guidelines and ensuring you have the correct license, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant journey with your trailer or caravan in Spain.