What does towing a heavy trailer require in terms of brakes and breakaway protection?

When towing a heavy trailer, regulations require both a braking system and a breakaway protection system to ensure safety on the road.

A braking system is essential because it provides the necessary stopping power for the combined weight of the tow vehicle and the trailer. This is especially important as the added weight can significantly increase the stopping distance, posing a risk to the driver and other road users.

The breakaway protection system is crucial for situations where the trailer becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle while in motion. This mechanism ensures that the trailer's brakes engage automatically, preventing the trailer from rolling away and causing accidents.

Therefore, having both systems in place is vital for safe towing practices. Relying on just one of these systems does not provide adequate safety, as each serves a distinct purpose in enhancing overall control and safety while towing heavy loads.