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  • If the trailer hand valve is used too much, particularly on steep hills, the trailer brakes may fail. Use of the trailer hand valve only is not recommended as it leads to a greater wear on the trailer brakes than the truck-tractor brakes. This causes unbalanced braking between the truck-tractor and the trailer, which could cause the unit to jackknife. 

  • Always be sure the brakes are adjusted properly. If they are not, some brakes will have to work harder than the others. This could cause a skid. 

  • A driver must not pull any trailer that weighs more than 2,300 kg that is not equipped with brakes controlled by the driver.

Following distance between vehicles

 

Remember that the two-second rule is the minimum following distance for passenger vehicles and is accurate at any speed. When operating a large vehicle, use the four-second rule to determine a safe following distance. Watch the vehicle ahead pass a fixed object, like a telephone post, and start to count one-thousand-and-one, one-thousand-and-two, and so on. If you reach the object before counting to one-thousand-and-four, you are following too closely. You must slow down to increase the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead.

Double and triple trailer units take up more space than other commercial vehicles. They are not only longer, but also need more space because they can not turn or stop as quickly. Allow more following distance. Make sure the gaps are large enough before entering or crossing traffic. Be certain you are clear at the sides before changing lanes. When weather, road or traffic conditions are poor, double your following distance.

 


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