When is it necessary to perform a brake check on your trailer?

Performing a brake check on your trailer before every trip is essential for several reasons. Firstly, ensuring that the brakes are functioning properly is critical for the safety of both the driver and other road users. Taking the time to check the brakes helps to identify any issues that could lead to brake failure during travel, especially when dealing with the additional weight and dynamics of a trailer.

Conducting a brake check allows drivers to inspect not just the braking system itself but also the loading and securing of the cargo, ensuring that everything is safe before embarking on the journey. This proactive approach helps to prevent accidents related to brake failure and contributes to better overall vehicle reliability.

While other options suggest checking only in specific circumstances, such as traveling downhill or during heavy traffic, these scenarios increase the need for caution rather than replacing the necessity of a routine brake check. Regularly checking the brakes, regardless of the driving conditions, maintains a standard of safety that is vital for successful towing.