Michigan is one of the best places for adventure seekers who want to go boating or camping with friends and family. To have the best experience, bringing along your RV or boat is recommended. Before you drive to your favorite lake or campground, you should know that the state of Michigan has trailer towing laws that drivers must abide by. Ensure you are acquainted with Michigan trailer towing laws before you head out to your next day out.
Why Were Trailer Towing Laws Enacted?
Enjoying the natural environment that surrounds Michigan is undoubtedly exciting. Still, you shouldn’t forget that recreational camping and boating come with their own set of risks. On the way to the campground or lake, towing huge trailers could potentially lead to accidents if the driver isn’t experienced enough to control the vehicle. The added weight of the trailer can also lead to maneuvering issues. That is why Michigan requires drivers with more experience to go behind the wheel.
What are the License Requirements When Towing a Trailer in Michigan?
If you plan to tow a trailer in Michigan, you are required to have a valid driver’s license. Additionally, drivers who are towing Fifth Wheel recreational vehicles attached at an RV’s back should have a recreational double endorsement (commonly referred to as “R”).
Drivers interested in applying for the R endorsement should hold a valid Michigan driver’s license and must be 18 years of age.
Does Michigan Have Trailer Dimension Requirements?
Yes, Michigan has size regulations for trailers. Michigan Trailer Towing laws require trailers to have a maximum length of 45 feet and a maximum width of 8 feet, 6 inches. Its maximum height is 13 feet, 6 inches, and its maximum overall length is 65 feet.
What Should You Know Regarding Michigan Trailer Title and Registration?
In Michigan, trailers weighing over 2,5000 lbs. must have a state-issued title. Regardless of weight, all trailers should also have (and display) a valid license plate. These license plates are non-transferable and are permanent.
When purchasing a trailer in Michigan, the buyer must submit a title application along with the titling fees within 15 days. The registration of the trailer and the trailer coach will have a one-time fee based on the total weight of the trailer.
For trailers heavier than 9,999 lbs., different rules and classifications will apply.
What Are The Mandatory Towing Safety Features in Michigan?
Michigan has towing safety features required by law to promote road safety while driving with a trailer. Here are some of the requirements every trailer driver should note:
- Tail Light
Trailers should have at least one working taillight while being towed in Michigan.
- Tire Tread
Trailers should have at least 2/32 tire tread before being on the road. Any less and it wouldn’t be fit to be towed around Michigan.
- License Plate Light
The license plates in trailers should be visible during daylight and nighttime. That means that even at night, it should have a light illuminating the trailer license plate for easier identification.
- Mud Flaps
The rear wheel of the trailer should come equipped with mud flaps. This is to protect vehicles and pedestrians from mud and other debris that may fly into the air due to the rotation of the tires.
- Turn Signals
Trailers that weigh over 2,5000 lbs. should have turn signals and two red rear stoplights. It could also be an amber rear stop light. Drivers must make sure that these stoplights are visible from at least 100 feet, especially at night.
- Stop Lights and Reflectors
Vehicles weighing less than 3,000 lbs. should have a single stoplight should the load of the trailer obscure the stoplight of the towing vehicle. Trailers under 3,000 lbs. should also have two red rear reflections to increase visibility.
These are just some of the safety requirements under Michigan Law. To know more, it would be best to read the detailed towing laws in Michigan.
Learn More About Michigan Trailer Towing Laws with The Clark Law Office
The Clark Law Office is one of the top personal injury and auto accident law firms in Michigan. With years of experience under our belt, we can guide you through Michigan’s trailer towing laws easily. If you ever find yourself entangled with the law after driving a trailer in Michigan, you may reach out to us by calling (517) 347-6900.
Sources:
- SOS – Trailers
https://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,4670,7-127-96435_1587-285702–,00.html - Trailer Towing Laws in Michigan
https://traveltips.usatoday.com/trailer-towing-laws-michigan-55044.html - Michigan Trailer Laws & Regulations Look-Up – Trailers.com – Shop Cargo, Utility, Equipment, & Enclosed Trailers
https://trailers.com/state-laws/michigan.php - Michigan Trailer Laws & Regulations Look-Up – Trailers.com – Shop Cargo, Utility, Equipment, & Enclosed Trailers
https://trailers.com/state-laws/michigan.php
