Top Tips for Boat Trailer Safety

Living in Michigan means a body of water is never too far. This gives us many reasons to love boating season – it can be relaxing, exciting, entertaining and even rejuvenating. But hauling a boat on a trailer, and launching it at the busy launch ramp, can have its challenges. In fact, it can be stressful and, without proper precautions, it can be dangerous. 

With hot weather blanketing most of Michigan, boats are at boat launches morning, noon and night. As a reminder, and to help make sure hauling your boat to and from its destination and into the water goes smoothly, check out this basic trailer checklist from discoverboating.com. 

• Coupler, hitch and hitch ball are of the same size
• Coupler and safety chains are safely secured to the hitch of the tow vehicle
• All fasteners are properly tightened
• Boat is securely tied down to trailer (winch line is not a tie down)
• Wheel lug nuts are properly tightened
• Wheel bearings are properly adjusted and maintained
• Load is within maximum load carrying capacity
• Tires are properly inflated
• All trailer lighting is working properly
• Trailer brakes are properly adjusted and working (if trailer is so equipped)
• Brakes and additional equipment meet all local and state requirements

At Michigan Insurance Group, we want your boating adventures to be enjoyed on the water instead of experienced with frustration on the boat ramp or on the road.

Before you’re out there towing and floating, take a look at your current boat and trailer insurance policies. Check with your agent to be sure your coverage is adequate and that your policies are up to date and renewed. 

Original article source: Safeco Insurance