Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts drivers are required to register their vehicles and trailers with the state's Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). They must have a legally obtained title for these vehicles as well.

If you have a tow truck displaying a commercial registration plate the vehicle can not tow an unregistered vehicle if any of its wheels are touching the ground. If however the towed vehicle is owned by the dealer who owns the plate then it can be transferred to the vehicle being towed for the purposes of moving.

A repair plate can be attached to a towed vehicle if:

• The vehicle being towed is owned by the repairer who owns the plate
• The vehicle being towed belongs to a customer of the repairer

Massachusetts General Towing Laws

These are general rules in North Carolina 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 terms of general rules the state of Massachusetts does not have specific rules in this section. As a general rule, however, use common sense when towing to avoid issues with law enforcement. It may not be specified but officers might pull you over if you have someone riding on a trailer while it’s being towed.

Massachusetts 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 of the trailer is 40 ft.
• The maximum width for a trailer is 102 inches although extra room is acceptable for appurtenance but not safety devices.
• The maximum height of a trailer and load is 13ft 6”.

Massachusetts Trailer Hitch and Signal Laws

There are laws in Massachusetts 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 with the exception of semi trailers have to be connected with some form of hitch and additionally a safety chain must be used.

Massachusetts 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 must have two rear lights to be located on both sides of the back of the trailer. These lights must emit a red beam from behind as well as a white that illuminates the license plate.
• Trailers should have two stop lights

Massachusetts 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.

Massachusetts Trailer Mirror Laws

The rules for mirrors in Massachusetts 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. These can be in the form of mirror extenders that slot into already existing wing mirrors.

All road vehicles including trailers are required to have at least one mirror which is placed and adjusted in such a way that the driver has a clear view of activity behind and to the left side of them.

Massachusetts 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 with an unladed weight over 10,000 lbs. are legally required to have either air or electric brakes.

Conclusion

There are a number of laws in Massachusetts that pertain to towing and trailers which are designed to keep the roads and road users safe. The state of Massachusetts does not overly regulate trailers but does have a few rules that are important.

You must be aware of the size of your load when combined with your tow vehicle and you must know the general rules of the road. Use common sense while towing and make sure you have safety chains on every trip.

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