A utility trailer is a non-motorized vehicle pulled by a motorized vehicle via a hitch. It can be open-air or enclosed and is designed to transport equipment. It affects the stability and handling of the vehicle and requires practice to back up and turn.
While the term utility trailer can refer to any number of different types of trailer, in general, it refers to a trailer that is a non-motorized vehicle pulled or towed by a motorized vehicle such as a car or truck. The trailer is wheeled and can be built as either a flatbed open-air trailer or an enclosed trailer with built-in racks or special equipment. This type of trailer is designed to transport some type of equipment, whether for professional or recreational use. .
A utility trailer connects to a motor vehicle via a hitch. There are numerous types of hitches, but the most common is the two-inch (5 cm) ball hitch. Typically, the trailer must be connected to a vehicle with sufficient towing capacity to handle a significant weight load; therefore, it is more common to spot a trailer attached to some form of truck. In the United States, all roadworthy trailers must have functional brake lights and proper license plates.
Utility trailers come in a variety of styles, lengths, widths, and weight capacities. Many recreational sports drivers use utility trailers to haul their motorcycles, boats, or ATVs. These utility trailers are usually single-axle units with two wheels, but larger trailers can come in a two-axle version with four or more wheels to support more weight and balance the load. Some trailers are enclosed to protect the items being transported from weather, debris, and theft.
Most utility trailers do not come with an active braking system, instead speeding up and slowing down relative to the tow vehicle. However, trailers over a certain weight and length must have a braking system to work in coordination with the tow vehicle. 18-wheeler tractor trailers are an example of a trailer with a built-in braking system.
Attaching a utility trailer to your vehicle will affect the stability and handling of the entire vehicle. Because the trailer itself adds additional weight to the vehicle as a whole, in addition to what is being hauled, your vehicle’s stopping distance will increase significantly. In addition, the handling of your vehicle will be affected by wind, snow and rain. You will also need to take turns more slowly, to prevent the trailer from swaying too much in either direction, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
Consider these factors before driving your trailer. Backing up your vehicle will also be a new challenge as turning a trailer can be difficult and will require some practice. Be sure to allow extra room when cornering and make sure you have a clear view in your rear view mirrors while towing a trailer.
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