Illinois 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 Illinois 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 to Be Registered in Illinois?

In Illinois non residents need to purchase special license plates for their trailers from the Department of Motor Vehicles. It is a one time fee for these plates which can range from $162 - $200. There is also an annual renewal fee which may fluctuate depending on weight of the trailer.

Those driving vehicles between 16,000 and 26,000 lbs. or towing a trailer in excess of 10,000 lbs. will need a Class C license. A Class B license is required for those driving vehicles over 26,000 lbs. and towing another vehicle that weighs less than 10,000 lbs. Finally a Class A license is required for vehicles over 26,000 lbs. that are towing over 10,000 lbs.

Illinois General Towing Laws

These are general rules in Illinois 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.

In the state of Illinois it is illegal to occupy a towed vehicle such as a semi trailer, trailer or farm wagon on the public highways.

Illinois 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.

• You can not ride in or live in a trailer while it is being towed along public roads in the state
• The total length of tow vehicle and trailer can not exceed 60 ft
• The maximum length for the trailer is 42 ft
• The maximum width for a trailer is 102 inches
• The maximum height of a trailer and load is 13 6” ft

Illinois Trailer Hitch and Signal Laws

There are laws in Illinois 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.

• All trailers must be equipped with a regular coupling device such as a drawbar as well as safety chains.
• Trailers between 3,000 – 5,000 lbs. only require brakes on one wheel per side.
• Trailers over 5001 lbs. must have brakes on all of the unit's wheels. These brakes must also automatically engage in the event of a breakaway.

Illinois 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 trailers and semi trailers require an electric turn signal device which indicates to drivers following the turning intentions of the person driving the tow vehicle. These lights should be on both sides of the vehicle at the same height and set as far apart from each other as possible.
• Trailers or semi trailers weighing less than 3,000 lbs. including a full load must have two red reflectors on the back. These should be located in the lower left and lower right corners no more than 12 inches from said corner. These reflectors must be visible under headlights from 300 ft away.

Illinois 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 trailer is being caused to sway or lose control due to speed you may be pulled over even if you are within the posted limits. This is because the trailer may be posing a threat to public safety and you will be asked to slow down.

Illinois Trailer Mirror Laws

The rules for mirrors in Illinois are not specified although they are likely required and you may be pulled over if you do not have any or they are unusable. If your view is compromised by the width of your load you may want to consider extensions to your existing mirrors.

For Illinois you must be able to perceive the road behind you for at least 200 feet through your rearview mirrors. If this is obstructed you might consider side mirror extenders which can handily fit over your existing mirrors.

Illinois Brake Laws

The brakes on your tow vehicle and potentially on your trailer are important to the safety of any towing operation. Ensure that they meet state guidelines and adhere to the stated rules for use on the road with a trailer.

Trailers and semi trailers weighing over 3,000 lbs. must have their own brakes which can be activated from the tow vehicle. They must also be designed in such a way that the brakes will automatically apply if the trailer disconnects from a tow vehicle weighing more than 5,000 lbs.

Conclusion

There are a number of laws in Illinois that pertain to towing and trailers which are designed to keep the roads and road users safe. When it comes to trailers Illinois has a few rules but is not overtly harsh on trailers.

Illinois only allows relatively short trailer and tow vehicle length and requires a reasonable amount of safety lamps and reflectors on the trailer itself. While towing normal speed limits apply but you should be aware that sometimes your load can become unstable at higher speeds.

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