The UK Towing Safety Alliance (UKTSA) has warned of the growing risk posed by poorly maintained trailers, following a four-year analysis of National Highways incident data.
The analysis, covering 2022–2025, found that towing-related incidents on the Strategic Road Network increased by 23%, with trailer incidents now accounting for almost half of all towing-related callouts and exceeding 3,000 in 2025.
Mechanical failure accounts for 77% of towing-related incidents, despite a 17% reduction in traffic collisions involving towed vehicles. The North West recorded a 60% increase in trailer failures since 2022, while incidents in the North East rose by more than 55%.
“It’s encouraging to see fewer collisions involving towing vehicles,” said a UKTSA spokesperson. “However, that progress is being undermined by a growing number of preventable mechanical failures.”
The UKTSA is highlighting the issue as agricultural, utility and other working trailers return to heavier use during the summer harvest season.
Trailers that have spent long periods in storage can be particularly vulnerable to tyre deterioration, corrosion and problems with braking, electrical and coupling systems. The Alliance is urging users to carry out basic checks before every journey.
TyreSafe chair Stuart Lovatt said tyres should be checked for “correct pressure, damage, cracking and signs of ageing” before use.
Users are also being advised to check that loads are within the trailer’s maximum authorised mass and securely restrained, and that the coupling, breakaway cable, lights and electrical connections are correctly fitted and working.
The warning comes as the UK vehicle fleet continues to age, with older tow vehicles increasingly being paired with trailers that may themselves have been in service for many years. The UKTSA says deteriorating tyres, worn suspension and braking components, damaged couplings and electrical faults can develop into roadside breakdowns without appropriate maintenance.
The Alliance plans to make “The Working Trailer” the focus of future safety campaigns, working with industry partners to improve maintenance awareness and encourage more regular inspection and servicing.
Road Safety GB is among the organisations that are members of the UK Towing Safety Alliance.
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