Back up before you pull off.

Good advice indeed. Tug tests and good old-fashioned walk-arounds are part of my own pre-departure routine, whether parked at a t/s or a shipper or receiver.

I've never been the victim of an act such as this, but there's always a first time.

 

After i watched a guy at the TA, I80, exit 6, Gary, IN, lose his trailer in the middle of Burr St after pulling out of the ta....I check everryyyyyy time....

 

This was taught to me at school .............it stuck in my head . a quick glance is worth saving a major headache .

DTA- Don't trust anyone.

 

We had a guy have a set of A trains come apart. The fifth wheel on the convertor was closed, but not locked. He made it about 15km before they separated.

It looked okay but still came apart. Cold weather makes things act funny. Be extra diligent when the temperatures drop.

 

Years ago, while strapping/tarping some sheetrock at Cumberland City,TN, another driver comes ROARING in, throws it in R, slams underneath, quickie securement job, cranks up landing gear. Hops up in cab and takes off, MINUS the trailer, which proceeds to rip taillights and mudflaps off on way down, WAY DOWN! Rips pigtail and airlines also. Yard dog couldnt pick it up, too low, had to get heavy duty to scene, $600 bux and lesson learned.

 

BTW - if i ever caught someone pulling a pin on my truck they will regret it when they wake up .

 

What I normally do as well is use the trailer brakes to stop before closing the doors. This ensure the trailer brakes are working, and when I go close the doors I can see of the brake lights are working or not. It will also create enough pull on the fifth wheel to ensure I have a positive lock.

 

my trailer doesnt have doors though!!