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How to Properly Install and Use Towing Mirrors

By: Emily Sandberg Click author's name for more of his/her articles

When it comes to hauling a heavy trailer, there can never be too much emphasis on safety. Any number of things can go wrong and put your life and the life of other travelers in danger. This is why it is very important to learn all you can about towing mirrors and other types of trailer safety equipment before you haul.

Towing mirrors are perhaps the number one safety consideration that you should make before hauling any type of load on a trailer. A towing mirror is an extra mirror that attaches to your vehicle's existing mirror or temporarily attaches to your vehicle in another way to extend your line of vision. You see, when you attach a trailer to your vehicle, you create blind spots. Towing mirrors eliminate these blind spots by allowing you to see areas that were blocked from sight by the trailer.

Towing mirrors are installed in a variety of ways. Most simply attach and clamp to your existing mirror by way of a clamp and tightening knob. All you have to do is slide the mirror into place; make sure it is held steady by the adjustable foot, and tighten the knob until the mirror is snug.

Be sure to follow all manufacturers' instructions when attaching your towing mirror. You should also double check bolts and clamps to ensure that they are securely fastened. Never take short cuts when attaching your mirror. This could cause the mirror to slip and fall; that would be bad at 30 miles per hour, perhaps disastrous at 70 mph or more.

After you have attached your towing mirrors, you will see that they come in handy in a variety of ways. First, they widen your field of vision which allows you to see what vehicles behind you are doing. A towing mirror will also allow you to check on your load and trailer without having to physically turn to inspect it. As you know, turning around while you're driving can be dangerous as it requires you to take your eyes off of the road and the traffic ahead of you.

Towing mirrors should be used in addition to your existing mirrors. Do not expect them to do the work of all of your mirrors. Simply use them to enhance your field of vision while towing. Be sure to check all of your mirrors frequently when hauling a trailer. Doing so is the best way to avoid an accident and keep your cargo safe.

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: Emily Sandberg is an outdoor enthusiast who takes her truck off road every chance she gets. When she's not towing anything, she covers her hitch with a hitch cover from Trailer Hitch Universe.