Toad &a brake assist
I am towing a Honda CR-V l, weight 3500 lbs, do I really need a brake assist In the car? Seems like a lot of hassle.
Forum Discussion
Yes, toad braking IS a "good idea". A good breakaway system is an even better idea.
However, while many (if not most) states have a Braking Performance Standard, as does the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, (you must be able to stop any combination of vehicles within 40 or 45 feet from 20 MPH on a clean, dry, hard, level surface), very few states actually require an auxiliary braking system on a towed vehicle (in all my research, I have found ONE such state!)!
TRAILER braking laws, however, are very clear cut. There is no doubt, brakes ARE required on any trailer over whatever weight the state decides.
BUT, according to the legal definitions in many states, a towed motor vehicle is NOT a trailer!
Again, brakes on a towed motor vehicle is a GOOD IDEA, but the statement that such are required by laws in most (or even many) states is just plain WRONG!
However, while many (if not most) states have a Braking Performance Standard, as does the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, (you must be able to stop any combination of vehicles within 40 or 45 feet from 20 MPH on a clean, dry, hard, level surface), very few states actually require an auxiliary braking system on a towed vehicle (in all my research, I have found ONE such state!)!
TRAILER braking laws, however, are very clear cut. There is no doubt, brakes ARE required on any trailer over whatever weight the state decides.
BUT, according to the legal definitions in many states, a towed motor vehicle is NOT a trailer!
Again, brakes on a towed motor vehicle is a GOOD IDEA, but the statement that such are required by laws in most (or even many) states is just plain WRONG!
