1. Do not rely on looking over your shoulder. Use your mirrors, back up cameras and a spotter/assistant.

2. If using a spotter, first establish hand signals that you both understand and agree on.

3. Be sure to do a thorough inspection of the area you are backing into - look for low-hanging branches, utility boxes, picnic tables.

4. If available, place an object (like a small orange traffice cone) on both sides of the site where you want the back of the trailer to stop at.

5. The spotter should stand in front of the tow vehicle, in clear view of driver. If spotter wants the trailer to go to the right, they tell the driver to turn to the right.

6. Driver should leave his/her hand on the top of the steering wheel. Drive slowly and turn in the direction the spotter tells you to.

7. Avoid turning the steering wheel too much and avoid holding it in the turned position too long.

8. If unassisted, try to always back from the left side (driver’s side). Allowing you to see where the trailer is going.

9. If unassisted, place hand at bottom center of the steering wheel. When you want the trailer to go left, you slowly turn the wheel to your left as you back, and vice versa.

10. Do not be concerned if you have to stop, pull forward and start again. Practice makes perfect!

by Mark J. Polk
newRVer.com