During national trailer safety week, running until 11 June, the DVSA is encouraging people to get trailed trained from an accredited provider after their recent survey found over half have received no training, despite nearly 80% of respondents having towed for over 6 years.
DVSA surveyed over 1000 drivers (in May 2023) as part of the Trailer Training and Safe Towing survey and the results highlighted that:
- 60% are towing without any formal training, despite many towing caravans with their family onboard
- although 70% said that they are fully confident to tow (26% fairly confident)
- Three quarters said they tow for leisure, with the majority towing caravans (74%) or horseboxes (46%)
- 60% said they would consider attending a practical towing course as a way of improving their towing skills or trailer safety knowledge
The accredited trailer training scheme, which launched in May 2022, provides drivers with a good understanding of how to tow safely in different conditions, no matter what they choose to tow. It also shows motorists how to correctly carry out safety checks on their vehicle and trailer or caravan before setting off. These checks are essential in making sure the trailer is safe to be on the road and correctly attached to the vehicle.
DVSA Head of Vocational Policy, Jessica Williams, said:
“The survey is clear that whilst people feel confident about towing, the majority have not been trained by a road safety professional, regardless of when they passed their test.
“If you’re planning to go away this Summer, make sure you get training from an accredited provider. Whether you’ve never towed before, or already have some experience, ensuring you have the right skills and knowledge will keep you and others safe.”
Details about the accredited trailer training schemes can be found on GOV.UK.
The NCC has also produced an updated Towing Guide here.