3 BRAKING TECHNOLOGIES FOR SAFER TOWING

No matter what you drive, a well-functioning brake system is a must. However, it’s all the more critical if you’re towing a heavy load behind your vehicle. In many cases, it’s necessary to rely on one or more of the following accessories to bolster your braking capacity.

1. Trailer brake controller

A trailer brake controller is an electronic device that activates the electrical braking system of the trailer whenever the brakes are applied in the tow vehicle. This helps to control trailer sway when braking. It also reduces braking distance and decreases wear and tear on the tow vehicle’s brakes. Moreover, in the event that the driver has to brake suddenly at a high speed, activating the trailer’s brakes will help ensure that the trailer doesn’t slam into the back of the tow vehicle.

At Hitch City, we carry a range of trailer brake controllers that mount onto your vehicle’s driver-side dashboard area. We can help you find the one that meets your towing needs.

2. Towed vehicle braking system

Also known as a supplemental braking system, a towed vehicle braking system performs the same function as a trailer brake controller, but it’s designed for use with towed vehicles rather than trailers. A towed vehicle braking system prevents strain on your primary brakes and cuts stopping distance by as much as half. It also helps you maintain better control over the towed vehicle and prevent swaying. 

At Hitch City, we carry top-quality towed braking systems, such as the Blue Ox Patriot. This device works with all vehicles, is fully electric, has a lifetime battery and monitors brake pressure while towing.

3. Breakaway brakes

In the event that the trailer disconnects from the tow vehicle, breakaway brakes automatically activate an electric braking mechanism and bring it to a stop. This may seem like an unlikely scenario, but it does happen. A breakaway can occur as a result of the ball mount or safety chains breaking or detaching. It can also result from errors made when hitching up the trailer.

A runaway trailer is a potential catastrophe. If the trailer hits a vehicle, it can cause a fatal accident. Even if it only ends up in a ditch, your trailer and anything it was transporting are likely to be severely damaged in the process. Breakaway brakes are an important fail-safe.

Towing equipment and accessories in the GTA

At Hitch City, we have everything you need for safe towing, including trailer hitches, trailer brake controllers and towed vehicle braking systems. Contact us to learn more about our wide selection of towing products.