Did You Know There Are Flat Towing Laws?

Flat towing a car by tow bar or A-frame on all four tires behind their RV is a very popular way to travel. RVing, in general, is a big responsibility and staying educated is key. When flat towing there are two things to consider. The first is towing laws for each state and country and if a braking system is required, the other is the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) for your motorhome.
 
Federal Regulations Title 49 (49CFR571.4) of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (10-01-08 edition) defines a 'trailer' as follows: “Trailer means a motor vehicle with or without motive power, designed for carrying persons or property and for being drawn by another motor vehicle."

What Is Flat Towing?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of flat towing laws, let's first understand what flat towing actually means. Imagine hitching your car to the back of a motorhome or another vehicle and towing like a trailer on all four tires. That's flat towing, my friend! It's like giving your car a piggyback ride, but on wheels. Ready to get started with flat towing? Find out what vehicles can be flat towed today.

Are Flat Towing Laws A Thing?

Oh, you bet they are! Just like any other activity on the road, flat towing has its own set of rules and regulations. These laws are in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved and to prevent any mishaps along the way. 49 out of 50 states and all of Canada require a braking system. So, if you're planning to embark on a flat towing adventure, buckle up and let's explore some of these laws together!

Properly Equipping Your Towed Vehicle

When it comes to flat towing, the reason why weight matters is because of stopping distances. When your towed vehicle has a braking system you can actually stop your motorhome and towed faster than you can stop your motorhome on it's own. Now that's safe. The difference on 10 ft stopping distance or even 5 can be the difference of a major accident.  Braking systems for flat towing not only keep you legal but also ensure a smooth and secure towing experience for you and your family. 

Ask Our Flat Towing Experts

Flat towing laws can be complex, and they may vary from state to state. If you're unsure about any aspect of the laws or need clarification, don't hesitate to reach out to the knowledgeable team at Lippert! We love to help our customers feel safe and ready for their RVing adventures.

Understanding Weight Limits

One of the key aspects of flat towing laws is the weight limit. Each state has its own specific regulations regarding the maximum weight that can be towed without a braking system. It's important to know these limits to be safe and legal. Most states are in the 3,000 lbs. range, so most towed vehicles easily fall in this category. So, before you hit the road, make sure you know what your car weighs and if you need a braking system. Refer to the chart below to find out some of the flat towing laws by state and province. Safety first, folks!