Trailer length

Although the likelihood of an LEO pulling you over and measuring your trailer is remote, an over zealous one could certainly create a problem for you with being longer than the law allows. Or, in the event of an accident where you were at fault, an aggressive lawyer could certainly create problems. Something to think about.

Verify the length restriction with your state DOT rather than on-line towing law charts.

I am purchasing a 42 foot toy hauler and notice many states have maximum trailer lengths of 40 ft or less. Does this mean I need to drive around that state? I am actually purchasing the toy hauler in a state with a maximum trailer length of 40 feet and live in that state. How can I legally tow the trailer off of the dealer lot and get it home? Hmmmmm.

Which state are you in? How did the dealer get the trailer if it was illegal to tow more than a 40 foot trailer? If worried get a 40 foot toy hauler. There can be some comfort in peace of mind. Most states have a max length of 40 feet or more for trailers.

He does not indicate what state he is in. But here is a common statement pulled from an on-line state towing laws information site.

Indiana Trailer Dimension Laws

Total length: 65 feet; trailer length: 40 feet; width: 102 inches; height: 13 feet 6 inches.

Florida Trailer Dimension Laws

Total length: 65 feet (excludes safety devices approved by the state); trailer length: 40 feet (excludes safety devices approved by the state); width: 102 inches (excludes mirrors and safety devices); height: 13 feet 6 inches.

From another on-line site.

Alabama
Size limitations: Height, 13'6"; Width, 8'6"; trailer length, 40'; motorhome length, 45'; combined length 65'. Triple towing is not allowed.

Best to check with local state DOTs to make verify what the laws are.

BB_TX wrote:
He does not indicate what state he is in. But here is a common statement pulled from an on-line state towing laws information site.

Indiana Trailer Dimension Laws

Total length: 65 feet; trailer length: 40 feet; width: 102 inches; height: 13 feet 6 inches.

Florida Trailer Dimension Laws

Total length: 65 feet (excludes safety devices approved by the state); trailer length: 40 feet (excludes safety devices approved by the state); width: 102 inches (excludes mirrors and safety devices); height: 13 feet 6 inches.

From another on-line site.

Alabama
Size limitations: Height, 13'6"; Width, 8'6"; trailer length, 40'; motorhome length, 45'; combined length 65' combined length 65'. Triple towing is not allowed.

Best to check with local state DOTs to make verify what the laws are.

the KEY IS - - COMBINED -65'

EVERY State we travel in there are trailers larger than 40'.. I can almost guarantee you that NO LEO will get out a tape measure and verify that you are legal... I have seen some comb's that I had to wonder HOW THE HECK they made it that far, and the LEO's would just go on by . . THEY HAVE FAR MORE IMPORTANT THINGS TO DO

I am living in New Mexico. I appreciate your replies!

Look at how many 53" tractor trailer there are running around, doubt it is enforced.

Blackdiamond wrote:
Look at how many 53" tractor trailer there are running around, doubt it is enforced.

It may be a commercial license issue CDL and the trailer/truck registration. As much as the police like to enforce the driving laws on truckers if it wasn't legal they would be all over them.

While I generally agree with the above comments, "combined length 65'" does not eliminate the 40' statement. And 53' is a commercial requirement requiring a CDL. And LEOs are not going to be stopping you to measure your trailer. But if you happen to be stopped for some other reason, particularly one sensitive to that LEO such as running a red light or exceeding the 25 mph limit in his little town of 500, don't be surprised if he whips out his 100' tape measure.

With the "litigious society" that we live in, is two feet really worth the worry or consequences if something were to happen? Myself, I'd look for a 40 footer.
I'd still like to know how the dealer can even sell it.

Where I live there are length restrictions too but I'm not aware of a trailer length restriction (combined, yes). However, here (Ontario) if your combined weight is over 24,200lbs, you need a Class A (CDL equivalent) to drive it.

Yes, I have a Class A and passed the same tests and medicals as commercial drivers. Now that I'm (gently) over 65, I have to get a medical every year just to drive my (heavy) RV.