Break away device legal requirements?
What are the legal requirements for a break away device on a dinghy? If it is required in some states, where can I find this info and what states require such a device? Thanks-- Mick
Forum Discussion
august west wrote:
I'm not trying to change your opinion, just trying to say ..I...believe it is necessary to be lawful and ...I... think it's common sense.
Montana makes it simpler:
MCA 61-1-101, (82) (a) "Trailer" means a vehicle, with or without motive power, other than a pole trailer, designed for carrying property and for being drawn by a motor vehicle and constructed so that no part of its weight rests on the towing vehicle.
Note that a "trailer" is not designed for carrying PEOPLE, only property!
Yes, I suppose it is just common sense to have a braking system on a towed vehicle, but that isn't the question; the question relates to LEGAL requirements. The ONLY way to find the answer to that question is to check the laws of every state you wish to travel in, then find out how fast you can stop your rig from 20 MPH on a clean, hard, dry, level surface. Many (if not most) states have a Braking Performance Law, AND it is in the FMVSS.
I have been idly researching this question of legality for over 15 years, and the ONLY state I have found that apparently has a law regarding braking a towed vehicle (other than a performance law) is North Carolina (GS 20-124 (f)). There is also a Braking Performance Requirement (GS 20-124 (e))
