Texas towing laws

Texas towing laws

Texas towing laws

In each state, various rules govern the towing of RV campers, boat owners and even people who are shifting homes. These laws are however ignored by many road users hence risking their mobility across the specific state. Laws governing this exercise in Texas are mostly from common factors of consideration to a normal driver with most of them remaining intact with only slight alterations to the basics. Driving a tow vehicle exceeding the set limit of 25,999 lbs. requires a special license of operation by the driver. Additionally, a driver’s license matching class-B non-commercial use is also necessary for the exercise.

Safety Equipment

Several self-explanatory rules are governing the exercise and are a factor of consideration for any responsible driver who is towing. The connection made between the tow vehicle and trailer should be made strong enough and safe to facilitate the pulling of the whole trailer’s weight. The trailer’s length is also limited to a 15 feet radius except for a vehicle that has the towed part built in a way that it is considered a structural part of the vehicle. On top of that, a white flag or a representative cloth should tie around the tow bar hence acting as a highlighter. The safety chain of the trailer is to be chosen with enough strength and additional warning signs including flares required. Furthermore, trailers weigh 4500 lbs. and above require their brakes as well as breakaways for over 3000 lbs. trailers.

Dimensions

The towing laws in Texas have specific towing vehicle dimensions which should match up to the desired 14 feet height and 8 ½ feet width. The trailer behind is also regulated to a length not exceeding the set 45 feet with a width matching up to 8 feet 6 inches. In combination, both the tow vehicle and the towed will add up to 65 feet and no more for the two vehicles. In addition to this motorhomes are also cut up a set regulation of not exceeding 45 feet in length.

Restrictions

The saddle mount method of towing in Texas restricts the number of vehicles that can be towed to a maximum of only three. This method of towing usually involves leaving the rear wheels to support the vehicle on the ground while mounting the wheels art the front to the bed of another vehicle. A child who is not yet 18 is not allowed to ride using flatbed trailer exempting only parades and only trailers that allow human habitation can be pulled while carrying passengers. Also, go to post about highway towing and to choose the best towing company.

Highway Towing

Highway Towing

Highway Towing Truck

Towing on highway require some technical skills and knowledge. These qualities make up the basic necessary requirements for a driver qualified to tow. Towing affects the normal functioning of the vehicle towing from the fuel consumption, braking and its control. Therefore regulations are necessary increase caution thus preventing accidents on the highways. Highways are not just any ordinary roads. Highways unlike any other roads, they have a large number of cars. Therefore, the drivers should be at his best to avoid accidents.

Laws have been put in place from the requirements of the driver to the standards which the caravan should meet. The towing vehicle is also no exception. Different countries have varying requirements. However, there are the basic regulations that are similar to almost all countries which are the most important for you as driver and other motorists on the highway.

Driver

A driver requires both the technical skills as well the knowledge required in the highway. Technical skills are applied in the driving and connecting the towing vehicle and the trailer. Towing requires a licensed driver, one who has gone through the necessary training as per the requirements of the law. Towing increases the size as well as the weight of the vehicle. Therefore, while reversing one has to be more cautious. It is advisable to use mirrors and at least a person directing from behind. Try to moderate the speed of the vehicle even where there is no speed limit for efficient and effective braking when need arises.

Caravan

Caravan in this case represents even towed disabled cars. Towing two or more caravans to one towing vehicle is not allowed on highways. Some motorist like motorcycles are not allowed to tow. The caravan should not exceed the size and weight of the vehicle towing. The brake lights and brakes themselves of the caravan should be functioning to avoid other motorist on the road. The chains be short as possible and connected firmly to prevent them from disconnecting to prevent accidents.

Towing vehicle

The towing car should be compatible to the caravan or trailer in terms of the weight and size. The towing vehicle should be too small or too big for the trailer. The vehicle should be licensed showing that it has met the necessary requirements. It should be road worthy. The towing vehicle requires extra reinforcements, extra mirrors and some modifications for automatic towing vehicles. It is important for safety to check the water which offer the engine a cooling effect. Find tips about towing safety on the highway by industry experts.