Towing isn’t just about horsepower—it’s about awareness, preparation, and safety every mile of the way. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or hauling gear across state lines, having the ProPride 3P Hitch is a great start, but safe towing practices take it to the next level.
Even the best sway control system can’t replace a smart driver and a solid routine. That’s why this guide is packed with actionable towing safety tips designed to help you get the most out of every trip—confidently and securely.
In this blog, you’ll learn:
Let’s get you road-ready, with tips that protect your rig, your passengers, and your peace of mind.
Before your tires ever hit the pavement, a solid inspection routine can mean the difference between a smooth trip and a roadside emergency. Think of this step as your towing “pre-flight checklist.”
If any part of your hitch looks worn or feels loose, pause and fix it. A 10-minute fix in the driveway can save hours of stress on the highway.
Your brake system isn’t just for stopping—it’s your lifeline on the road.
Here’s what to check:
Pro Tip: Always do a light test before every trip. It takes 60 seconds and saves lives.
Tires are often overlooked, but they’re one of the most common causes of towing failures.
Check both your tow vehicle and trailer tires for:
Underinflated or worn tires can lead to blowouts, poor handling, or decreased braking power.
Use this quick-reference table to run through your setup before every trip:
Pre-Trip Check |
What to Inspect |
Why It Matters |
Hitch System |
Coupler latch, hitch ball, safety pin |
Ensures secure trailer connection |
Brakes and Brake Controller |
Brake pedal feel, trailer response |
Provides safe stopping power under load |
Lights |
All trailer and tow vehicle lights |
Keeps you visible and legal on the road |
Tires |
Pressure, tread depth, cracks |
Prevents flats or blowouts |
Chains and Wiring |
Safety chain placement, harness connection |
Ensures full backup and signal integrity |
Proper weight distribution is key to sway control—and it’s where your ProPride 3P really excels. But even the best hitch needs a well-balanced load to work properly.
Loose items shift. Shifting weight causes instability. Use these basic cargo security tips:
Once you’re rolling, your job shifts to awareness and smart driving habits. Your ProPride 3P gives you sway-free confidence, but technique still matters.
The biggest enemy of towing stability? Distraction and excessive speed.
Faster isn’t better—it’s riskier. Let the ProPride do its job by towing smoothly and consistently.
Heavy loads require longer stopping times. Instead of tailgating, give yourself a buffer:
This simple habit prevents accidents, gives you time to adjust, and reduces trailer sway from hard stops.
Your turning radius and lane positioning matter more when towing.
Even the most well-maintained trailer setups can encounter issues. Preparing for the unexpected can turn a breakdown or delay into a minor hiccup, not a full-blown crisis.
Think beyond the basics. A towing-specific emergency kit helps you deal with roadside problems quickly and safely.
Here’s what every towing emergency kit should include:
Storing these items in a weatherproof bin makes them easy to grab when you need them most.
Prepping for a trip goes beyond gear. Planning your route helps avoid trouble spots and gives you options if things go sideways.
This planning gives you the upper hand during detours, road closures, or equipment failures.
Finishing your trip doesn’t mean safety checks stop. A quick post-trip review keeps your gear in top shape and preps you for next time.
Once you’ve parked and chocked your trailer:
These small steps prevent long-term wear and help you catch problems before they escalate.
After unhitching, protect your gear:
Keeping your towing setup clean and organized extends its life and makes hitching next time faster and easier.
Safe towing isn’t just about having the best equipment—it’s about knowing how to use it and staying alert from start to finish. Your ProPride 3P Hitch gives you the tools for sway-free towing, but your habits behind the wheel and under the trailer are what make each trip truly safe.
From detailed pre-trip inspections to on-road awareness and post-trip care, these tips form the foundation of every confident tow. With practice, they become second nature—and your towing experience becomes safer, smoother, and far more enjoyable.
With the right mindset, preparation, and a ProPride 3P Hitch, you’re always ready for the road ahead.
Even seasoned towers have questions when it comes to safety. Here are some important, lesser-asked questions that can make a big difference in your towing experience.
Yes, the hitch is engineered for all-weather towing. However, you should slow down significantly, double-check tire tread and brake function, and ensure that the hitch components are clean and not obstructed by ice or mud.
Maintain a firm grip on the wheel, reduce your speed gradually, and avoid sharp steering inputs. Let the ProPride 3P’s sway control system stabilize the trailer. Do not slam on the brakes unless absolutely necessary.
Check all torque settings after the first 100 miles of towing, then inspect monthly or before any long trip. Vibrations and road conditions can gradually loosen hardware, especially after storage or harsh weather.
Yes, provided your lighting system is fully functional. Make sure all trailer lights are working and clean. Reduce speed and increase following distance to account for reduced visibility and longer reaction times.
In most cases, yes. If you’ve installed lift kits or air suspension, you may need to adjust your hitch head height and sway bar angles accordingly. Consult with ProPride support for custom guidance on your setup.