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3 Reasons To Make Sure You Use A Supplemental Brake On Your RV Trailer Or Fifth Wheel

Being able to tow a trailer behind you can give you a lot of options when it's time for the family vacation or even just the weekend fishing trip. But if you want to stay safe while on the road and keep other drivers safe as well, you need to make sure you follow common safety practices for towing a trailer or fifth wheel. One area you definitely want to pay attention to would be your RV electric brakes. If you're not currently using a separate braking system and depending solely upon the brakes on your main car or truck, here are three reasons why that's not a good idea.

It's the Law

Depending on your state, there may be specific laws that apply to driving on the road while towing an RV or fifth wheel behind you.Many states require that RVs have their own braking system installed in order to remain safe on the road. If you get caught driving without an RV electric brake system installed, you could end up paying a fine that would make the cost of the brake system seem like a much better deal.

You Could Void Your Warranty or Insurance

When you buy an RV, you typically receive a warranty on it from the RV company. But warranties come with stipulations, and one of them might be that you are required to use an RV electric brake system. If something goes wrong with your RV and it's obvious the braking system was not used or unavailable, your warranty may be void. If you carry insurance on your RV, the insurance company may also have a similar requirement.

You Could Be Held Liable

The worst case scenario is that you failed to install or properly maintain a braking system on your RV and then you ended up in an accident because you could not brake in time. As soon as the person you crashed into finds out you did not have a working electric brake system on your RV or fifth wheel, it will likely be lawsuit time. No one ever plans on getting into an accident, but you don't want to take that chance.

If you drive on the open road with an RV or a fifth wheel behind you, you need to make sure you have a working supplemental brake at all times. RV electric brakes can help you avoid a costly accident and may even be required by your local laws or at least your insurance policy. If you don't currently have a braking system installed on your RV, reach out to an RV specialist like Burnsville Trailer Hitch.


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