Towing Laws You Should Know (apparently)

Yep, lots of rumours there.

If you read it on facebook it must be true.

Yes all very good until they display a non conforming (illegal) do not overtake sign.
It does not have the following on it. From VSB 12
Markings
The front reflective surface of the plate must bear the name of the manufacturer or agent. In addition, Class 2 marking plates must also be marked with the words “AS1906 Class 2” or “AS4001.2
Class 2”. “Class 1” plates also display letters indicating the correct orientation on the vehicle.
When buying plates, make sure that this information is provided on each of them. Plates without this identification will not be accepted.

It is also incorrect about Breakaway Brakes They are required on trailers with a GTM of 2001kg or more. A "Trailer with an ATM of 2200kg and a ballweight of 225 kg doesnt legally need them.

Prescribed height of number plate is incorrect too for SA. In SA it must be 30 cm above the ground and not obscured in any way. That's it. Detailed in Reg 24.

Di

That confirms that mirrors are still compulsory, rear view cameras can only be a supplement.

My understanding is still the rule for SA. Apparently the rule for the eastern states has to do with their cameras, can't go beyod 1.5m. Don't know how true this is!

Di

I find that a lot of these regulations, are very hard to interpret. Even a lot of the police , traffic officers etc probably aren't up on all of it . You nearly need a good lawyer to decifer it all.
So whether it be a magazine or a forum or bookface, it may not be correct.
Cheers all
Robbo

The articulated vehicle thing is interesting ........ the national road rules no longer have articulation as an issue in licencing ...... it's all about Weights and combinations ...... regradless of how they are coupled.

Back in the day you could drive a truck and dog on a truck licence, but a articulated licence was required for a semi- trailer ........ both no require a heavy combination.

SO .... is the ACT not compliant with the national legesaltion?

Just to follow up on Bantams reply. He is correct in what he says and rightly so questions the ACT legislation.

The information in the link about having to have an MC or HC licence to tow a 5th wheeler is incorrect.

You may tow a fifth wheeler with a normal car licence as long as you keep under the maximum gcm for that licence.