Towed Vehicle Braking Requirements by State
Here is a map showing the maximum allowed weight capacity of a towed vehicle without having an independent braking system.
Special Requirements In Certain States
In addition to the basic braking weight and breakaway requirements, some jurisdictions have special requirements.
A separate braking system is not required, but you must be able to stop the vehicle combination within legal limits.
Every vehicle combination must be able to stop within 40 feet. This is tested from an initial speed of 20 mph on a level, dry, smooth, hard surface.
Every vehicle combination must be able to stop within 40 feet. This is tested from an initial speed of 20 mph on a level, dry, smooth, hard surface.
The state says that the braking system must be sufficient to “control the movement”. Also, it must be able to stop/hold the vehicle combination “including 2 separate means of applying the brakes.”
A separate braking system is not required except on fifth-wheel trailers.
Kentucky does not specifically mandate brakes on most trailers towed by passenger cars of any weight. However, all vehicles, separate or in combination, must be able to stop within distances specified in the statute.
Breakaway systems that both stop and hold the towed vehicle are required on every trailer or dinghy. New Jersey also requires a proportional braking system to be employed. This applies the towed vehicle brakes at the same proportion to the braking the driver is applying to the main vehicle. The weight calculation is complicated here as well: Brakes are required on all wheels for all trailers over 3,000 pounds. The weight of the trailer or towed vehicle can’t be more than 40% of the GVWR of the towing vehicle.