What is the law on trailers: – towing vehicle, weight, driving age, etc?
A rough summary of the UK law (I’m an engineer, not a lawyer) is: • You musn’t exceed the towing capacity of your vehicle. Typically 1.5 tons for a medium-sized, car up to 3.5 tons for a big 4×4 – consult the manufacturers handbook for information. • You mustn’t exceed the capacity of the horse trailer: typically 1.6 tons for a small (double) “pony” trailer, 2 tons for a mid-range double “horse” trailer, 2.6 to 3 tons for the largest double and treble trailers. Again, the manufacturers give specifications (a sample is given in http://www.world.co.uk/faq/horse.html). • Trailers over 750kg (3/4 ton) must be braked. • Trailers carrying livestock must have at least two axles. • Trailer tyres are subject to the same rules as car tyres: minimum 1.6mm tread depth. • The lights must work, and the number plate must match the towing vehicle’s. • The towing speed limit is 60 mph on dual carriageways and motorways, 50mph elsewhere. Those who passed their driving test before 1/1/1997 are allowed to
