In most states across the United States, it is illegal to double tow, also known as triple towing, with specific bans in nearly all Atlantic states (except Maryland) and several Pacific states.
Understanding Double Towing
Double towing, sometimes referred to as triple towing, involves pulling two trailers behind a single tow vehicle. This typically means a car or truck towing a recreational vehicle (RV), which then tows another smaller vehicle or trailer. While it might seem convenient for some travelers, many states prohibit this practice due to safety concerns regarding vehicle length, stability, and braking capacity.
States Where Double Towing is Prohibited
The legality of double towing varies significantly by state. However, a common pattern emerges: most states along the Atlantic seaboard and some on the Pacific coast have enacted prohibitions.
Here's a breakdown of the states where double towing is illegal:
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Atlantic Coastal States (with one exception): Nearly every state bordering the Atlantic Ocean prohibits double towing. The only exception among these is Maryland, where the practice is permitted.
The states where double towing is illegal along the Atlantic are:- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Virginia
-
Pacific States: Several states on the Pacific coast also have laws against double towing. These include:
- Hawaii
- Oregon
- Washington
Why the Prohibition?
States primarily ban double towing to enhance road safety. The concerns typically revolve around:
- Vehicle Length: A double-tow setup can become exceptionally long, making turns, lane changes, and maneuvering in traffic more challenging and hazardous.
- Stability: Pulling multiple trailers can compromise the overall stability of the tow rig, especially at higher speeds, in windy conditions, or during emergency braking. This increases the risk of swaying or jackknifing.
- Braking Distance: The added weight of multiple trailers significantly increases the required braking distance, posing a danger if the driver needs to stop suddenly.
- Driver Control: Maintaining proper control over a multi-trailer setup demands significant skill and experience, and even then, unexpected road conditions can quickly lead to loss of control.
While double towing might offer convenience for transporting multiple items, understanding and adhering to state-specific regulations is crucial for safety and legal compliance. Always check the specific laws of any state you plan to travel through before attempting to double tow.