Colorado 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 Colorado 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 Colorado?

According to Colorado law enforcement all trailers have to have a title and be registered. This means they do need a license plate to serve as proof of this registration and title. Those looking to do this for the first time will require the following:

• Secure and Verifiable ID
• A Colorado Title
• Sales Paperwork if Purchased from a Colorado Dealer

With the above documents in hand you will need to visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They will assist you in getting your trailer licensed.

While towing a trailer in Colorado it is important to know the state's rules and regulations. This means that the trailer's title and registration must be kept up to date and be displaying proof of its compliance with these laws. Failure to have the trailer legally registered can lead to a ticket if you are caught using it.

It is important to note that you can also register a homemade trailer in Colorado. You just need to supply:

• A bill of sale for the materials purchased which needs to be verified by the county motor vehicle office.
• A statement of Homemade Trailer and Assignment Trailer I.D. Number (DR 2409), completed by applicant
• A completed DR2704 Colorado Certified VIN Inspection.

Once you furnish the DMV with these documents and proofs they can issue you a license plate.

Colorado General Towing Laws

These are general rules in Colorado 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 do not need separate insurance to cover your trailer as it will be covered under the insurance of your tow vehicle. Any damage or injury caused by your trailer will be treated as if it was done by your tow vehicle.

Colorado 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 70 feet
• Trailer length is not specified but combined length can not exceed the 70 ft maximum
• The maximum width for a trailer is 102 inches. Any excess due to appurtenance is allowed within reason
• The maximum height of a trailer and load is 14 ft 6”

Colorado Trailer Hitch and Signal Laws

There are laws in Colorado 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.

• A safety chain is required with all towing
• All connections between vehicles must be strong enough to hold the weight towed
• No other rules are listed regarding hitches

Colorado 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 up coming and present actions in the form of lights. This is why there are rules regarding trailer lighting.

• All trailers must have a tail light mounted on the rear that emits a red light visible from 500 ft away.
• The Height of tail lamps should be no more than 72 inches and no less than 20 inches above the road surface.

Colorado 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.

Colorado Trailer Mirror Laws

The rules for mirrors in Colorado 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.

Colorado 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.

Conclusion

There are a number of laws in Colorado 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 Colorado than most other states.

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