Over-width trailers towing tips

The rules governing oversize vehicles and loads vary from State to State (or Territory). The amount of leeway allowed before you’re relieved of hard earned cash also varies, so it’s best to stay legal all the way.

While many think they are within the legal boundaries there are more and more imported boats, caravans and trailers that overstep the mark, so buyers need to be aware.

In most states the maximum width of a vehicle is 2.5 metres and mirrors will be allowed out past that measurement. A lot of larger trailerable boats can be towed even if they are over the limit but there are rules governing them and while some police forces turn a blind eye, others are red-hot on it.

Some Aussie-built boats are over the width limit and a lot of imported trailerable boats are as well due to the fact that the US laws allow for beamier boats to be towed than our laws do.

Both of these require a regulation sign on the front of the tow vehicle and the rear of the trailer or body of the trailer.

During the hours of darkness a flashing orange light must operate on the towed vehicle.

There are all sorts of draconian requirements regarding how the signs are attached; no lanyards or bungee cords in lieu of steel pins to fix in place, for example.

And in Queensland, if you display too much warning you can be prosecuted for being 'over-signed'! Go figure that one out. We’ve also been told that operating the flashing orange light during daylight hours could also overstep the boundary.

The bottom line is to check your local rules regarding width and if you’re travelling interstate, check the laws in that state as well or you be in for some big fines and, as we’ve witnessed, have to leave your boat on the side of the road.