At Three Shires Trailers, your safety and compliance with UK regulations is our top priority. Understanding government guidelines for towing trailers helps ensure a safe, legal, and hassle-free towing experience.

Check if You’re Eligible to Tow

Your eligibility to tow trailers depends on when you passed your driving test:

• Before 1 January 1997
  You can generally drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to 8,250kg Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).
• After 1 January 1997
  You can tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM without additional testing. For heavier trailers, you’ll need to pass the car and trailer driving test.

Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM)

The Maximum Authorised Mass refers to the maximum weight the vehicle or trailer is allowed to weigh when loaded. You must ensure your vehicle and trailer are suitable for towing safely, considering your car’s specifications and trailer weight limits.

Towing Weight Limits

Always check the following before towing:

• Gross Train Weight (GTW): Maximum combined weight of the car and trailer when fully loaded.
• Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): Maximum permitted weight of the vehicle alone.
• Trailer’s Maximum Weight: The maximum loaded trailer weight your vehicle can safely tow.

These weights can usually be found in your vehicle’s handbook or on the manufacturer’s website.

Rules for Towing Safely

When towing a trailer, UK law requires that:

The trailer must be roadworthy and properly maintained.

• Brakes and lights on the trailer must be functioning correctly.
• Number plates displayed on the trailer must match your towing vehicle’s plates.
• Mirrors must allow a clear view of the road behind and along the sides of the trailer.
• Speed limits when towing are lower than usual:
  • 50mph on single carriageways
  • 60mph on dual carriageways and motorways
• Passengers must never ride in trailers.

Preparing Your Vehicle and Trailer

Before you tow, you should perform the following safety checks:

• Coupling and uncoupling safely and correctly.
• Correct loading to avoid exceeding weight limits.
• Properly inflated tyres and good tread condition.
• Securely attached breakaway cable or secondary coupling.
• Properly working lights, brakes, and indicators.

Trailer Insurance

You must ensure you have appropriate insurance for towing trailers. While trailers do not usually require separate insurance, your vehicle insurance should cover third-party liabilities while towing. Always check with your insurance company to confirm your coverage.