Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio?

In the state of Ohio it is required by law that trailers be registered so subsequently license plates are required on trailers. It is an easy procedure in the state and the cost will vary based on the unladen weight and how long of a registration you are purchasing.

When registering your trailer you will need to submit the following to your local deputy registrar:

• Proof of financial responsibility statement
• If leased a lease agreement and power of attorney documents
• A valid Ohio driver's license
• A weight slip such as the manufacturer’s certificate of origin, or a statement of origin to prve the unladen weight of the trailer

Ohio General Towing Laws

These are general rules in Ohio 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.

• Riding in a travel trailer or non-self-propelled manufactured home is prohibited.
• Riding in a pickup camper is permitted.

Ohio 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 the tow vehicle and trailer is 65 ft.
• The maximum length of the trailer is 40 ft.
• The maximum width for a trailer is 102 inches.
• The maximum height of a trailer and load is 13 ft 6 inches.

Ohio Trailer Hitch and Signal Laws

There are laws in Ohio 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.

• The drawbar or any other connection between tow vehicle and trailer can not exceed 15 ft in length.
• A white flag or cloth that is at least 12 inches square has to be displayed on any chain, rope or cable being used as the connection between vehicles.
• In addition to a drawbar any tow set up other than commercial tractor or 5^th wheel must also be connected with stay chains or cables.
• The connection between tow vehicle and trailer should operate in such a way as to not allow the towed load to veer off course.

Ohio 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 possess two red reflectors which can be either part of the tail lamps or separate.
• Trailers must have at least one red tail lamp which can be seen from at least 500 ft to the rear.
• A white light is required to illuminate the license plate which can be seen from at least 50 ft.
• Trailers must have 2 stop lights that can be seen from at least 500 ft.

Ohio 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.

Ohio state law says that vehicles over 8,000 lbs. can not exceed 55 mph.

Ohio Trailer Mirror Laws

The rules for mirrors in Ohio 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 onto already existing wing mirrors.

State law says that you must have at least one rear view mirror which must be located on the left side of the vehicle. Other mirrors are not mandatory but are advised.

Ohio 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 that weigh more than 2,000 lbs. unladen are required to have brakes fitted to help with the braking process when being towed.

Conclusion

There are a number of laws in Ohio that pertain to towing and trailers which are designed to keep the roads and road users safe. The process for registering your trailer in Ohio is relatively easy and rules for towing are not too complicated either.

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