Trailer Licence Training Speed limits blog

When towing a trailer, as with driving at any time, it is of great importance to always keep within the legal speed limit for the road that you are using.

Speed limits for cars towing caravans or trailers:

• 30mph limit applies on all roads with street lighting unless signs show otherwise.

• 50mph applies on single carriageways unless signs show otherwise.

• 60mph applies on dual carriageways and motorways.

It should be remembered that you must NOT travel in the right-hand lane of a motorway, during normal circumstances, with three lanes or more, if you are driving a vehicle towing a trailer.

Another important thing is to make sure that you drive within your outfit’s capabilities. Too many people try to drive the exact same way as they would if they didn’t have a trailer hitched on the back of their car. Please also make sure you always drive at a speed that is well within your capabilities, and to the road and weather conditions that prevail at the time.

If your trailer begins to snake or swerve, ease off the accelerator and reduce speed gently. (This can happen if you are driving too fast or the load in the trailer is wrongly positioned). Do not brake sharply on a bend, (this could cause a possible jack-knife situation). Reduce speed before the bend and take the appropriate gear for the speed you are doing. Then gently accelerate out of the bend.

BE CAREFUL AND SAFE TOWING!