While most of us have a firm grasp of the rules of the road for our automobiles, we may not have first-hand knowledge of the regulations that go into trailers. A trailer is commonly used for the transport of goods and materials. There are certain rules and regulations of the road for this important carrier. The following is a guideline of regulations for registration, trailer towing, passing and speed.
Registration. Just like your car, truck, motorcycle or moped, you must also register your trailers except for bumper hitch farm trailers. The registration fee is based on the size and/or class of your trailer. If you have a travel trailer or a fold-down camper, you pay 20-cents per-square-foot, using the outside dimensions of your trailer. If you have a utility trailer, you pay a flat fee of $10. To register your trailer, complete forms, and pay the fees at the county treasurer’s office.
Trailer Towing
The extra weight of trailer towing makes it more difficult to control your vehicle, to stop, or to handle the trailer and the towing vehicle. Keep this in mind and use caution.
Passing
Your vehicle cannot accelerate quickly when pulling a trailer. With this in mind, make sure you have plenty of room when passing another vehicle. You must pull your car and trailer far enough ahead to safely move back into the right lane. Sudden swerves can send your trailer out of control, be sure to avoid them.
Being Passed
Air from passing trucks will push your trailer to the right. Be ready for the trailer to pull to the right when being passed by another vehicle. Be ready to correct any swaying by steering in the direction of the sway. A quick burst of acceleration may help pull the trailer back in line. Never brake hard -- it may cause the trailer to jackknife or flip over.
Speed
Follow the same speed limits as for cars, unless posted otherwise. Remember to increase your following distance because you will not be able to stop as fast as you did without the trailer.
Be careful going around large curves or down steep hills. The forces on your trailer can make handling dangerous; take command of your trailer and vehicle.
Projecting Loads
If you have a load that sticks out from the end of your trailer or vehicle four feet or more, it must be marked. Normally, during the day a red flag should be tied on the end. When lights are required, a red light or lantern must be used to mark the end of the load.
At Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales, we specialize in trailer parts and trailer services. Contact Terry's Auto Body & Trailer Sales for all your trailer needs, repairs, and maintenance. Avoid disaster and keep your family safe while driving. Call 641-985-2536 contact us or visit our website.
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