The device has a device base (52), and a lever (54) movably supported in the device base. The lever is movable from an initial position into an operating position. An action takes place on the trailer hitch by using a movement transmitting device (72). A safety lug (80) is provided at the lever to secure the lever against an operation in the initial position of the lever. The safety lug has a safety unit that is brought into effective connection with a safety unit retainer at the device base. An independent claim is also included for a motor vehicle comprising a trailer hitch.
