What should you do if your trailer starts to sway while driving?

When a trailer begins to sway while driving, the appropriate and safest action is to slow down. This is primarily because increasing speed can exacerbate the instability of the trailer, making it more difficult to regain control. By reducing speed, you allow the vehicle and trailer combination to stabilize, as a lower speed decreases the centrifugal force that contributes to the swaying.

It's essential to maintain a steady grip on the steering wheel during this process and avoid abrupt maneuvers, as sharp turns or sudden braking can further disturb the balance of the trailer. Taking your foot off the accelerator gently and allowing your vehicle to slow down naturally will often help bring the swaying under control more effectively.

Moving too quickly to options such as engaging the trailer brake can also lead to unexpected results, as it may lead to further imbalance. Therefore, decelerating gradually is the most recommended course of action for managing trailer sway.