TEXARKANA, Texas (KTAL/KSHV)—The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is working to emphasize the importance of trailer hitch safety by sharing a tragic story about how it affected one family.

AUSTIN — Whether it’s taking a boat on a lake or operating a business, millions of Texans hitch a trailer to their vehicle every year. Knowing how to safely attach or tow a trailer can save lives.

Towing a camper, boat, or trailer loaded with equipment or supplies is a common task. Drivers across the country own vehicles with tow hitches installed alongside the rear bumper infrastructure, and ...