Florida Trailer Towing Laws
by Joey Campbell
The stage government of Florida has created trailer towing laws for road safety and better driving conditions. Each year, many retired people, known as snowbirds, move temporarily to Florida for the winter. During storm season, many people exit Florida in panic mode as they evacuate their area due to incoming hurricanes. Trucks and motor homes towing vehicles and boats create a bigger need to place regulations on trailers being towed.
Length, Width and Height
Florida law states that the towing trailer cannot be longer than 40 feet in length. Width of the trailer cannot exceed 8 feet, 6 inches. The height cannot be higher than 13.5 feet. Overall length of the vehicle and trailer combined should not exceed 65 feet.
Speed Limit
When towing a trailer, the total speed is limited to 65 miles per hour in the state of Florida. This may be somewhat slower than speeds posted on expressways and roadsides. One word of caution regarding speed limits---safety dictates that speeds be lowered in inclement weather. Icy roads rarely occur in Florida, but hard rains commonly reduce visibility. High winds create driving hazards, so slower is safer.
Trailer Weight and Brakes
If the trailer weight is under 3,000 lb., the state of Florida does not require that it have its own braking system. In the event the trailer weighs more than 3,000 lb., the trailer should have a brake system separate from that of the vehicle.
Other Requirements
Florida does not allow double tandem towing (a vehicle pulling a trailer and a boat, or two trailers). Trailers must have safety chains, reflectors, license plate lights, tail lights, turn signal lights and brake lights. The trailer must be registered in your state, and you need proof of insurance.
Writer Bio
Joey Campbell spent eight years in real estates sales and property management. She has been active in residential and commercial mortgage for the past 23 years in the Southeastern U.S. Campbell has attended hundreds of seminars, and has written and conducted workshops on subjects such as credit, debt excelleration and prequalifying for residential mortgages.
