Towed vehicle requirements by state

[Timkar]

Found this list quite interesting for those who tow. Not sure when it was compiled. 

http://home.roadrunner.com/~morodat/toad-brakes-by-state.html

[bevans6]

always surprises me how many States, and provinces, for that matter, don't require brakes in a towed car or truck.  Towed trailers are a different animal, far more states require brakes.  I always wonder what a towed car on a dolly requires?

Brian

[MikeH]

So I'm guessing that if you travel through any state, your towed vehicle is subject to the rules in that state, regardless of where you have it licensed. This would be a good thing to be aware of as you plan your routes if you are towing anything behind you.

Mike

[bevans6]

That is indeed the rule, Mike.  Drivers licenses are respected with reciprocity state to state and province, but the vehicle always must conform to local rules and laws. 

Brian

[artvonne]

  This situation is one reason I wish the Federales would initiate reciprocity over state laws so we could travel unhindered. You shouldnt need to study and comply with the laws of all 50 states to go traveling, your states laws should be good enough. Its not like you live there, your just visiting/passing through.

[white-eagle]

i suspect that if you do due diligence and try to protect the other guy, the jury will be reasonable with you on liability.  if you strictly meet the requirements, and don't actually try to make your vehicles safe, then you will probably get what you deserve.
i always try my honest best to make sure i don't cause anyone else any grief, regardless of the laws, rules, or lawyers do.

Yes, Sean, i do try to follow rules and guidelines, but i first have to believe i've done the right thing as well as met the codes.

i don't worry about the feds or states.  most juries won't convict an honest person who tries (unless he has a jerk lawyer). In my humble opinion.