Kia Optima 2004 Owner's Manual page 161

During your trip, check occasionally to
be sure that the load is secure, and that
the lights and any trailer brakes are still
working.
5-18
DRIVING TIPS
Following distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the
vehicle ahead as you would when
driving your vehicle without a trailer.
This can help you avoid situations that
require heavy braking and sudden turns.
Passing
You'll need more passing distance up
ahead when you're towing a trailer. And,
because you're a good deal longer, you'll
need to go much farther beyond the
passed vehicle before you can return to
your lane.
Backing up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel
with one hand. Then, to move the trailer
to the left, just move your hand to the
left. To move the trailer to the right,
move your hand to the right. Always
back up slowly and, if possible, have
someone guide you.
Making turns
When you're turning with a trailer, make
wider turns than normal. Do this so your
trailer won't strike soft shoulders, curbs,
road signs, trees, or other objects. Avoid
jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well
in advance.