Arkansas Trailer Laws and Regulations

If you often find yourself towing heavy loads around your state you probably have some idea of the state laws and rules that apply to do this. Some people may not be aware however that sometimes laws can differ state by state. This can mean you might be legal in one state but crossing the border you might well get pulled over for an infringement you were not expecting.

In this article we are going to look at the laws for Arkansas which may vary from the state you might be driving in from. There may also be regulations you were not aware of as a native to the state which might catch you out. So read on and let us try to keep you from costly tickets.

Do Trailers Need License Plates In Arkansas?

The simple answer is no you do not need a license plate for your trailer in Arkansas. This is because only motorized vehicles require a title in this state. This does not mean you don’t need license plates to be able to operate the trailer, you still need them on the tow vehicle.

In Arkansas all trailers must be registered with the exception of those used for agricultural purposes or that have a gross weight of 4,000 lbs. or less

Any full trailer or semi trailer used with a registered vehicle must also be registered for which there may be fees. This registration can be done by mail or in person and must be done within 30 days of obtaining the trailer. Failure to do so may incur a fine.

The trailer must display proof of this registration which may be in the form of a permanent license plate. It could also be a tab, decal or a registration card.

Arkansas General Towing Laws

These are general rules in Arkansas regarding towing that you might come foul of if you were not aware of them. Sometimes you may get away with an infringement of these rules because you did not know them but you can not assume this will be the case.

• You will need a special permit if the vehicle you are towing is not registered. You will also need proof of ownership.
• The drawbar can not be longer than 15 feet
• You are not permitted to ride in a towed trailer
• You can camp in rest areas
• You are permitted to tow more than 1 boat or general utility trailer at a time.

Arkansas Trailer Dimension Rules

It is important to know the state laws governing the sizes of loads and trailers. You may need permits for some loads while others may not be allowed on certain types of roads.

• The total length of tow vehicle and trailer can not exceed 65 feet
• The maximum length of the trailer can not exceed 43 ft 6” including the bumpers.
• The maximum width for a trailer is 102 inches.
• The maximum height of a trailer and load is 13 ft 6”.

Arkansas Trailer Hitch and Signal Laws

There are laws in Arkansas that relate to the trailer hitch and safety signals displayed by the trailer. It is important to be aware of these laws as they are safety based so may carry potentially large fines.

• Connection between tow vehicle and trailer must be secure
• You will likely need to have a safety chain attached
• A 12 inch flag is required on all connections between tow vehicle and trailer. This would include chains, ropes and cables.

Arkansas Trailer Lighting Laws

When you are towing something that will obscure the rear lights of your tow vehicle it is important to be able to communicate your upcoming and present actions in the form of lights. This is why there are rules regarding trailer lighting.

• All vehicles must have visible taillights, and brake lights. You may also need license plate lights as well to illuminate your trailer registration.
• Turn signals are not required as long as your trailer and load do not exceed 80 inches in width. You will however need reflectors on both sides.

Arkansas Speed Limits

When it comes to speed limits this varies and depends on the posted speeds of the specific area. You obviously should not exceed the posted speed limit in any area. When it comes to normal towing there are no specific different limits but it is expected that the speed is kept at a sensible level.

If your level of speed is causing your trailer to weave, sway or be unstable you may be pulled over and cautioned to slow down for the safety of yourself and other road users. If you are towing a house trailer the maximum speed limit is 45 mph.

Arkansas Trailer Mirror Laws

The rules for mirrors in Arkansas are very specific in that the driver's rearview mirrors must be equipped with mirrors that reflect at least 200 feet of the roadway behind you. If your mirrors are obscured and do not offer this you may need to make adjustments.

If your view is compromised by the width of your load you may want to consider extensions to your existing mirrors. These can come in the form of mirrors that can slip over your existing rear views to improve your view past the load.

Arkansas Brake Laws

Trailers and Semi Trailers that have a gross weight of over $3,000 lbs. must be equipped with adequate brakes to control the movement and stopping of the vehicle. Brakes should automatically activate in the event of an accidental break-away.

New trailers and semi trailers that weigh at least 1,500 lbs. must come equipped with brakes on all wheels.

Conclusion

There are a number of laws in Arkansas that pertain to towing and trailers which are designed to keep the roads and road users safe. Trailers must be registered and in good working order and can be a little longer than in other states. You can also have a slightly wider trailer in Arkansas than most other states.

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