The UK has been battered by Storm Goretti as we move into January, which has caused significant levels of snowfall in some parts of the country, as well as brought strong winds and icy conditions to many areas.
Given the challenging driving conditions, it’s understandable why many drivers would leave their vehicles rather than continue. However, this means that recovery teams are set to be very busy in the coming days and weeks ahead.
There have been reports of cars being left abandoned on roads in South Wales, which has been hit hard by the storm, as well as in the Peak District.
Authorities closed many of the highest roads in the Peak District ahead of Storm Goretti’s arrival, but that has led to some drivers being forced to abandon their vehicles on the lower-lying routes, such as Winnats Pass.
This has prevented the county council from fully gritting and clearing the road, as the abandoned vehicles now need to be moved to give teams access to the highway.
How can abandoned vehicles be recovered?
Now that the worst of the storm has passed, some drivers may feel comfortable returning to collect their vehicles and drive them home themselves.
However, others may require more assistance and that’s where recovery teams with suitable trailers will come in. Such teams are likely to be busy in the coming days, taking flatbed trailers and Beavertail trailers out to help drivers who have been unable to finish their journeys.
Due to their sloping rear bed section, Beavertail trailers in particular will be helpful for recovering abandoned vehicles. This sloped rear section makes the loading height much lower, which will mean it’s easier to guide a vehicle onto a trailer to remove it.
Beavertail trailers can also be fitted with a winch, which means it’s possible to move vehicles even if they aren’t starting – another reason why they’re favoured by recovery teams around the country.
How can you prepare a Beavertail trailer for use in winter?
If you’ll be using your Beavertail trailer regularly in challenging winter conditions, particularly in areas prone to snow and ice, it pays to carry out some maintenance before you hit the roads.
First, check your trailer for any signs of corrosion or damage – if you notice any rust or cracks, get these inspected and repaired before you take the trailer back out on the road.
While not likely to cause immediate damage, if you are regularly driving your trailer on icy roads that have been gritted, the salt used to melt the ice can lead to corrosion if you don’t regularly clean your trailer and make sure that it’s in good condition before you head out.
Ideally, you will install mud flaps and fenders on your trailer as these simple items can help to reduce the amount of grit and other debris that hits the undercarriage of your Beavertail trailer as you drive.
It’s also essential to check your tyre pressure and tread to ensure they can handle colder conditions. In icy conditions, you want as much grip as possible when you’re driving, so ensure that the tread depth on all of your tyres is good.
Don’t forget to check that your spare tyre is still in good condition too. All Ifor Williams Beavertail trailers come with a spare wheel and carrier as standard, so check this to ensure it’s winter ready too.
Remember that in cold conditions, moving parts can easily seize up, so be prepared by making sure you’ve got a lubricant in your vehicle with you in case you need it. Regularly lubricating the likes of locking mechanisms and hinges will help keep them in good working order too.
Deicer can also be helpful in some circumstances – and you’ll likely want it for the vehicle towing the trailer – so make sure you have some with you to help remove particularly stubborn ice if it forms.
What other gear might recovery teams need for their trailers?
Other accessories that it’s worth taking with you include a small shovel and ice scraper – especially if you’re going to be helping recover vehicles from the snow.
You’ll also want to make sure you’ve got appropriate load restraining straps to secure any vehicles once you’ve got them safely on the back of your trailer.
It will likely also be useful to have a set of loading skids, either made from steel or aluminium, to give you an easy way to get any vehicle you’re recovering onto the trailer. And, of course, don’t forget basics like plenty of food and water for yourself, as well as warm clothes for while you’re working.