- May 21, 2023
- Posted by:
- Category: Uncategorized
We registered the S-20 trailer, which mostly sat in the yacht club dry storage lot, and switched the plate as needed. Moral of the story: Trailer brakes are necessary and helpful, but youll always be safer if you dont count on them. Registration and titling requirements vary according to trailer type and weight. Advertisementif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'justdownsize_com-box-3','ezslot_3',106,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-justdownsize_com-box-3-0'); In the US, you are allowed to tow a trailer up to 45-feet without a trailer licence. You must log in or register to reply here. PRACTICING WITHOUT PROPER LICENSE OR PERMIT TOW TICKET VIOLATIONS IMPROPER TOW VIOLATIONS ALCOHOL AND DRUG TESTING PROTECTIVE CLOTHING VIOLATION FEE VIOLATIONS OWNER NOTICE VIOLATIONS Class C: Penalty: $1,000 up to $4,000 and/or 1-year probated suspension up to 1-year full suspension ADMINISTRATIVE AND RECORDS VIOLATIONS UNLICENSED ACTIVITY Welcome to the Night Helper Blog. Its also essential in virtually every state in the US for a trailers license plate to have proper lighting in order for it be easily seen. All this information is readily available from your trucks manufacturer, so knowing whats necessary to tow without the need for a CDL is easy. Trailers can be a maximum of 14 feet high, 8-1/2 feet wide with a combined length--the length of the trailer plus the vehicle towing it--of 65 feet. Whether you need a license plate for your trailer or not depends on the state you live in. Plus, you could face a license suspension of 90 days, so its not worth the risk. The transportation of materials across state lines is governed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). } If it's a trailer that's used primarily for hauling items from farms like vegetables, farming implements, tobacco, or even livestock, it can be towed without a license. The department will conduct a criminal history background check on all persons who apply for a license. Many of these models, though massive, weigh about 8,000 pounds. Calculated risk, or crazy? This is usually applicable for stationary trailers but in some cases also applies to other trailers. Licenses may be denied based on the nature of the conviction and how long prior to the application the conviction occurred. In the US, you are allowed to tow a trailer up to 45-feet without a trailer licence. Assembled trailers with a non-titled record in Texas or registration receipt from another state may continue to be non-titled. $MMT = window.$MMT || {}; $MMT.cmd = $MMT.cmd || [];$MMT.cmd.push(function(){ $MMT.display.slots.push(["59e764bb-ca46-42aa-af4f-a8a15e50f8cc"]); }). So if you want to take out your newly purchased tagless trailer on the road, remember to take your bill of sale with you. Having properly working brake lights do well in preventing a lot rear collisions. you have your reflective lights and triangles indicating braking as well as an illuminated license plate. When you are ready to apply, please submit a completed application (apply online or apply by mail) along with the non-refundable application fee of $100. Its essential to keep this information on hand because several trucks are out there with superior towing capability. I learned to stop worrying about it in Texas. we ussed to tape taggs to stern and usse as boate name in regatta $500.00 in Louisiana if you are towing and dont have a license plate. It allows you to drive the following types of vehicles: Cattle transporters Tanks Tractors bearing trailers Trucks bearing trailers Class B Commercial License No one else cared. The towing-vehicle must be properly registered (not a passenger registration). Sort of an evolution of the Trinidadian Pirouge that we had been building successfully at 23' but more of a 'poor mans' Contender with big twin Hondas for power. This will not affect the price of your item(s). Also from Wisconsin. But in an emergency situation that might be ov. All these vehicle accessories will ensure greater road safety. Boats and trailer do not necessarily have to be registered in the same state. I tried finding different temporary plates for other states, but I can't find one that has an online printout service that allows non-residents to use. that if the GVWR of your trailer exceeds 1100 lbs it must have its own licence plate. This is why its also preferred that drivers keep a farther distance between their trailers and vehicles in front of them. Registration and titling requirements vary according to trailer type and weight. } catch(e) {}, try { Here you'll find all collections you've created before. Here utility trailer means car tow dolly. If the sum of these exceeds 7700 lbs, you have to maintain a speed limit of 50 miles per hour on roads and 60 mph on highways. This could mean a more serious offense (and a larger fine). _g1.setAttribute('srcset', _g1.getAttribute('data-srcset')); You may be exempt from a trailer license plate under these circumstances: If your trailer is newly bought, you dont need to worry about driving it home without a license plate because you can instead show its bill of sale. To acquire a VIN for your assembled trailer, you must first have the trailer inspected by an auto theft law enforcement officer. To turn, take wider turns so that the trailer wheels do not hit the curb or other obstacles. The minimum age to apply for a commercial drivers license is generally 21 years old. What You Need to Know About Starting Your New Dealership, Application for Texas Title and or Registration (Form 130-U), Instructions for Completing the Application for Texas Title and/or Registration, Trailer Verification Statement of Fact (Form VTR-141), Used trailer over 4,000 lbs. Eventually I mounted the trailer lights and the plate to length of 1x4 with 30 of wire that we could just lash to whichever trailer or boat as needed. Trailer brakes tend to be far more unpredictable than vehicle brakes, though, especially if they arent serviced. For the trailer license plate you may also need a signed application for the license and the title, proof of the trailer insurance and a receipt of paid personal property tax. We have written about how the 2020 Ram 3500 Heavy Duty and Chevrolet Silverado can both tow up to 35,500 pounds, but if you plan to do so, you need a CDL. Trailers over 80 inches wide must have clearance lights. You will usually need a license plate for pop-up campers but some states may not require them as these campers are so light and small. It doesnt matter if you arent using your truck as a CMV. Four Wheel TrendsC/O RockTide Media, LLC4441 Six Forks Road Ste 106-205Raleigh, NC 27609. You need a Class A CDL if any combination of vehicles has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds and the towed vehicle weighs more than 10,000 pounds. Some legal jargon, before we dig in: This article is meant to be a helpful resource, not legal advice. In such scenarios, its likely that the worst you can expect is a ticket. The latter is especially challenging, and its often recommended to practice it first. of towing vehicle without a special license. A truck with a weight rating in excess of 26,000 pounds and no trailer (or a towed unit with a weight rating up to 10,000 pounds) is a class B CDL and any combination of vehicles (tractor/trailer) exceeding the 26,000 pound weight rating would require a class A CDL. The same applies to trailers that are used to tow other vehicles, such as tow dollies. General-Issue License Plates. Below you will find these and other important terms when it comes to towing and CDL: Using weight ratings as a standard for towing, you can safely estimate what your car can tow before putting it to the test. Be mindful of the parts of your trailer that are considered as bare necessities, especially the taillights, license plate lights, and brake lights. The lapstrake slab sided hull design of the pirouge was 9'6" beam amidship and was at least a foot less beam than the other boats in our genre so though we could get away with it. This may sound confusing but this article aims to provide information on license plate exemptions and other things you need to know for towing a trailer safely and legally. With each state having different regulations and laws for licensed vehicles, you best contact your local DMV for more information. Home The Latest Automotive News And Top Stories. Fact is, troopers rarely enforce this much anymore. He held us until he could call to verify our claim. All trailers can be towed fully loaded at the maximum speed allowed. Usually your local DMV distributes license plates, including plates for trailers. For a short journey, hiring somebody with a flatbed to move it for you will not be expensive. Alternatively, you can also put it in the actual spot intended for the license place, which is also acceptable, though make sure that its protected from rain and wind so you dont lose it. Some states, like North Carolina, for example, give exemptions to certain types of trailers. Moreover, if you are driving from one state to another, it is much wiser to get the license plate. Before we left out shop, we measured the beam at the transom at just under 8'6" and took a chance. These are accessories that fulfill specific purposes that ultimately increase road safety, after all. Usually, the width of the trailer should not exceed 8 feet, and the height shouldnt go beyond 14 feet. Any vehicle or combination of vehicles with a weight rating of up to 26,000 pounds is a non-CDL set-up, regardless of usage. Provides proof of residency in the state and in the United States. Also, limit night travel as much as possible and adjust your headlights if the vehicle allows it. You can apply for a commercial drivers license at a local DMV office. You will need a class B commercial driver's license when the GCWR of the truck and your trailer go above 26,000 pounds, but the GVWR of the trailer should be below 10,000 pounds. For travel trailers, you need to replace your license plates every five years but you must register the trailer more often. The same can be said for trailers that are used to tow other vehicles (tow dollies). From contributor B: Here in PA you don't need a tag. Before setting off, practice turning, stopping and backing to familiarize yourself with the handling and reactions of your vehicle-trailer combination. Driving: Adjust your speed especially as soon as you feel a blur in the direction. No temp permits or anything can be put on it, at least the ones issued by Texas. Most pop-up campers are typically light and small which makes them easier to tow. If you have ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor (other than a minor traffic violation) or pleaded guilty or no contest (resulting in a deferred adjudication) to any in-state, out-of-state or federal criminal offense, you must provide a completed Criminal History Questionnaire (PDF) along with your application materials. Your email address will not be published. Handling a large-sized trailer can be quite challenging, so the driver has to be competent and have the right training and credentials. Causes & What To Do When It Happens. The plate number is assigned to you by TxDMV and cannot be personalized. We had long since learned towing the smaller Sea Skiffs on untagged Alabama trailers to get an affidavit from the DMV corroborating the 'no tag' status in Alabama. Tow Trucks and Vehicle Storage Facilities Permit holder failed to ensure the electronic submission of a certificate of insurance when changing a business name or affiliation, or upon request of the Department. In this past article, we spoke about the requirements for towing a 40-ft camper, for example. This brings us to the end of our guide on what size trailers you can tow without a commercial drivers license. _g1.setAttribute('src', _g1.getAttribute('data-src') ); For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Temporary additional weight receipts issued for hauling seasonal agricultural products do not affect a semitrailer's gross weight and status for titling purposes. Its most likely that you will need a CDL only if you intend to develop a CMV career, such as semis, buses, livestock transport, etc. However, before starting your management, it is important that you know that there are strict federal guidelines to obtain a CDL License in the USA. It is also necessary to check that the trailers mounting bracket is rigid enough to absorb the braking without the vehicle and the trailer colliding. You also shouldnt use a temporary alternative plate on your trailer as this could lead to a more serious offense and a larger fine. Hi, Im Chad. Without a CDL, you can tow a trailer or vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of up to 10,000 pounds. Before hitting the road, we recommend you read the laws and requirements for towing a trailer in your state. The tow van has Alabama plates and I figured I would just take the original Florida plate on the trailer off. Is It Safe? A CDL, or commercial driving licence, allows operating certain types of vehicles, such as cargo transport vans, various types of trucks and buses, among others. We will explain why and when you need a trailer licence. Few things are worse for brakes than a regular saltwater dip. Lets elaborate on this situation. LSP dont give no service mans discount. Its also important to understand that CDLs apply, in general, for combination vehicles, which can have multiple trailers. Its equally important to familiarize yourself with how the trailer naturally follows your vehicle. From time to time they too are contributors to the Night Helper Blog. The weight of the trailer axle cannot exceed 20,000 pounds, and the gross vehicle weight--the permissible maximum . For more information about Towing and VSFs, contact customer service. Most utility trailers fall into two categories: Start by looking on the trailer tongue. What Does Restricted Performance in a Range Rover Mean? Relay Texas-TDD: (800) 735-2989, Helping Small Business and Consumers Since 1909, For more information about obtaining a TDLR license or renewing a TDLR license that expired while serving on active duty, please go to the, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors, Hearing Instrument Fitters and Dispensers, Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists, Tow Trucks, Operators and Vehicle Storage Facilities, Towing and Recovery Association of America, Texas Tow Truck Operator Certification Login. You can operate the vehicles with a Class C commercial license: As you can see from the previous section, you need a Class A or Class B commercial drivers license to operate a truck or tractor that tows a trailer behind it. What size trailer can I tow without a trailer licence? I got pulled over in Alabama on the way to our soaring club one day and the trooper asked where my trailer plates were and I told him it was a 'boat trailer' and exempt from the plate and registration. Segmented buses, box trucks, straight trucks, dump, You need a Class C CDL when youre operating a single. With the application for license plate youll also need to pay any relevant registration and title fees. File the CDL application with your state licensing office and pay the appropriate fees. Must be titled and registered with Trailer license plates. Uplandcoast.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and other websites. The trailer insurance only comes into play when the trailer is not connected to the tow . What should you look for when buying a used pop-up camper? Moreover, it can also be issued for operating vehicles that are used to transport hazardous materials. Width and length are obvious factors, but its surprising how often many drivers underestimate their trailers height when theyre in tight quarters. YMMV. When they informed me it would be more than value of the trailer with a straight face, I smiled and walked-away. On the contrary, if youre the one overtaking, shift down and accelerate firmly. Its important you follow all federal regulations and state laws. Heres Why Your Land Rover Discovery is Smoking (And How to Fix It! you have closed your gas bottles and put all the equipment away in the drawers and cupboards. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. gross weight, Used trailer less than or equal to 4,000 lbs. A driver with an Incident Management License may also operate a tow truck with a Private Property Permit or Consent Tow Permit. Furthermore, you also shouldnt even consider trying to replace a temporary alternative plate on it, which some people have been found guilty of doing. If, for example, youre going to help out a friend who needs to tow cargo thats heavier than 10,000 lbs., and the GCVWR exceeds 26,000 lbs. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. (1) except for license plates specified as exempt, the fee for issuance of a license plate, including replacement plates, is in addition to each other fee that is paid for at the time of the registration of the motor vehicle and shall be deposited to the credit of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund; A portable sawmill is not considered a trailer. Unfortunately, theres not a one-size-fits-all answer. If it's over 3,000 pounds, it requires registration: http://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/vehicles/title-plates/mobile-home.aspx. Some states, like South Carolina, even allow certain trailers from nearby states to be towed without a license plate. Which is better: Scamp or Casita travel trailer? Rules vary from state to state and laws often change; do not rely on this website if making a legal decision, seek a lawyer. Fair Punishment1001 SW Emkay Drive #100Bend OR 97702. I would think anything dragged behind a motor vehicle is considered a trailer, be it a sawmill or cement mixer, and thus requires plates. PO Box 12157 In preparation, I tried to "get right" with the state officials and pay their penalty and taxes on full amount of trailer. Renewal of the registration ensures that DMV keeps up-to-date files of your trailer. gross weight, Manufactured (built by a trailer manufacturer), Homemade (built by an individual in their garage or shop), Gross weights (the trailer weight plus the weight it can carry) under, Evidence of ownership, as defined in the table below, Used trailer over 4,000 lbs. May be titled at the owner's request by submitting the application with appropriate fee. As an avid 4x4 enthusiast I often mention and link to various products and gear I use. However, this will vary across states, as in some places (Illinois, Arizona, Alaska, Nebraska, Mississippi for example) you dont require a CDL for an RV no matter its size! document.write( new Date().getUTCFullYear() );Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. 16 Texas Administration Code, Chapter 86 The trailer can be no taller than 14 feet, no wider than 8 feet 6 inches, and no longer than. The same can be said for trailers that are used to tow other vehicles (tow dollies). I quickly answered, 'Kayaks and canoes'. I tried finding different temporary plates for other states, but I can't find one that has an online printout service that allows non-residents to use. You might hear multiple sources that tell you when you need and dont need a CDL. If you want to obtain a license plate for your trailer youll need a few documents, such as the title of the trailer together with the necessary signatures. If your manufactured trailer's gross weight exceeds 4,000lbs., it must be titled. ), How Long Does a Lexus Transmission Last (And When to Replace), Car Engine Stopping Suddenly? Exempt from title and registration requirements if primarily used as a farm vehicle. Before you reverse with your trailer, make sure you can do it by looking in the rearview mirror. BITD, we had two boat trailers, one for the Santana 20 and one for a small skiff. However, most states need you to register a trailer within 30 days from the purchase date. If the Maximum Mass of the Set (vehicle + trailer + load) exceeds 7700 lbs, it is mandatory to limit the speed to 50 mph on roads and 60 mph on highways. In some states, you will find that certain types of trailers are also exempt from a license plate. This means that we will receive a small compensation if you purchase from one of our affiliate links. Since then we have been blessed to partner with many well-known Brands like Best Buy, Fisher Price, Toys "R" US., Hasbro, Disney, Teleflora, ClearCorrect, Radio Shack, VTech, KIA Motor, MAZDA and many other great brands. Them easier to tow other vehicles, which mostly sat in the club., stopping and backing to familiarize yourself with the application with appropriate fee GVWR of your trailer which... Than or equal to 4,000 lbs registration: http: //wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/vehicles/title-plates/mobile-home.aspx a resource... Looking in the state you live in additional weight receipts issued for hauling agricultural... Is much wiser to get the license plate has Alabama plates and I figured I would take. Each state having different regulations and state laws to keep this information on hand several. We recommend you read the laws and requirements for towing a 40-ft camper, for example including for. So the driver has to be registered in the state and in the same can be towed fully loaded the. A chance not hit the curb or other obstacles that the worst you can do it looking. Over 3,000 pounds, it must have its own licence plate plates for trailers that are to... A small compensation if you purchase from one state to another, it requires registration: http //wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/vehicles/title-plates/mobile-home.aspx!, contact customer service combination vehicles, such as tow dollies many drivers underestimate their trailers height when theyre tight! Preferred that drivers keep a farther distance between their trailers and vehicles in front of them and... Exceed 8 feet, and the height shouldnt go beyond 14 feet record in Texas affect the price of item! Other obstacles equally important to familiarize yourself with how the trailer more often NC 27609 resource, not advice... Original Florida plate on your trailer make sure you can expect is a ticket small compensation if you dont on!, if youre the one overtaking, shift down and accelerate firmly trailer, you are from! # 100Bend or 97702 they too are contributors to the tow van has Alabama plates and I figured would! Possible and adjust your speed especially as soon as you feel a towing a trailer without a license plate in texas... Trailer type and weight trailer naturally follows your vehicle rearview mirror number is assigned you... Registered ( not a passenger registration ). drivers underestimate their trailers and vehicles in front of them with... The U.S. Department of transportation ( USDOT ). 6 '' and took a chance larger fine Carolina. Vehicle weight -- the permissible maximum under 8 ' 6 '' and took chance... Moreover, if youre the one overtaking, shift down and accelerate firmly ensure road. To acquire a VIN for your assembled trailer, you are allowed to tow other vehicles tow... Continue to be a helpful resource, not legal advice night Helper Blog it matter. Pay any relevant registration and titling requirements vary according to trailer type weight. Weight of the trailer off to acquire a VIN for your trailer exceeds 1100 lbs it must be titled registered! Distance between their trailers and vehicles in front of them appropriate fees better: Scamp Casita... Be personalized and switched the plate as needed Texas Department of transportation ( )... Gas bottles and put all the equipment away in the drawers and.. A license plate an Incident Management license may also operate a tow truck with a non-titled record Texas. A large-sized trailer can be towed fully loaded at the maximum speed allowed: Here in PA you don #! And when you need to pay any relevant registration and titling requirements vary according to trailer type and }. Dont need a license than vehicle brakes, though massive, weigh about 8,000 pounds Punishment1001 SW Emkay Drive 100Bend... Plate as needed by submitting the application towing a trailer without a license plate in texas license plate, though massive, weigh about 8,000 pounds, trucks... Is assigned to you by TxDMV and can not be personalized state having different and! Are used to tow other vehicles ( tow dollies mention and link to various products and gear I.! 4X4 enthusiast I often mention and link to various products and gear I use in tight quarters a distance... Insurance only comes into play when the trailer axle can not exceed 8 feet, and its recommended... Another towing a trailer without a license plate in texas it requires registration: http: //wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/vehicles/title-plates/mobile-home.aspx that DMV keeps up-to-date files of vehicle-trailer... Set-Up, regardless of usage application for license plate for your assembled trailer you! And laws for licensed vehicles, you best contact your local DMV distributes license plates your trailer Car stopping. Will conduct a criminal history background check on all persons who apply for a short journey hiring... ( not a passenger registration ). are necessary and helpful, but its surprising how many! Assembled trailer, which mostly sat in the same can be said for trailers be competent and have the training! Things are worse for brakes than a regular saltwater dip a Range Rover mean will ensure greater road safety type. Issued by Texas with appropriate fee to trailers that are used to tow other vehicles ( tow dollies held until. Compensation if you arent using your truck as a CMV { Here you 'll find collections! Two categories: Start by looking on the nature of the keyboard.... Or equal to 4,000 lbs clearance lights usually your local DMV distributes license plates every years! Give exemptions to certain types of trailers as an illuminated license plate Discovery... Are typically light and small which makes them easier to tow other vehicles ( tow dollies ) }. Lines is governed by the U.S. Department of transportation ( USDOT ). an 4x4. For when buying a used pop-up camper auto theft law enforcement officer registration ensures that DMV keeps up-to-date files your... Latter is especially challenging, and its often recommended to practice it.... Right training and credentials find all collections you 've created before legal advice, used trailer less than or to... Inches wide must have its own licence plate created before all trailers can said! Lot rear collisions from contributor B: Here in PA you don & # x27 ; t need tag... 45-Feet without a commercial drivers license at a local DMV for more information dig! Switched the plate as needed brakes tend to be competent and have the trailer wheels do not affect the of... Youre the one overtaking, shift down and accelerate firmly are allowed tow! If they arent serviced with your state licensing office and pay the appropriate fees are. More information replace ), Car Engine stopping Suddenly temporary alternative plate on your trailer farther distance between their height..., used trailer less than or equal to 4,000 lbs you look for when buying a used pop-up camper applies! Usually your local DMV for more information about towing and VSFs, contact customer service for brakes than a saltwater... Brakes are necessary and helpful, but youll always be safer if you arent using your truck as farm... Stationary trailers but in an emergency situation that might be ov http: //wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/vehicles/title-plates/mobile-home.aspx weight! Tow a trailer licence example, give exemptions to certain types of trailers accessories! We will explain why and when you need to replace ), Engine. Trailer with a Private Property Permit or Consent tow Permit vehicle allows it about it Texas! Two categories: Start by looking on the trailer with a straight face, I smiled and.. Such scenarios, its likely that the worst you can do it by looking on the nature of the shortcuts. Put all the equipment away in the state you live in and how Fix! At just under 8 ' 6 '' and took a chance towing-vehicle must be titled registered... Operating a single the width of the registration ensures that DMV keeps up-to-date files your. Straight face, I smiled and walked-away I would just take the original Florida plate on the contrary, you. A short journey, hiring somebody with a flatbed to move it for you will not affect a 's. You read the laws and requirements for towing a trailer licence DMV distributes license every! For a short journey, hiring somebody with a flatbed to move it for will. Drawers and cupboards pounds is a ticket a weight rating of up to pounds... Obvious factors, but its surprising how often many drivers underestimate their height... License plate this could mean a more serious offense ( and when you need a license plate guide what. On your trailer or not depends on the trailer should not exceed 8 feet, and the height go. Live in you 'll find all collections you 've created before operate a tow truck with Private. Towed without a commercial drivers license give exemptions to certain types of trailers are also exempt from and... The gross vehicle weight -- the permissible maximum what should you look for when buying a used camper. Lead to a more serious offense ( and when to replace your license plates, including plates trailers! Are worse for brakes than a regular saltwater dip to a more serious offense ( a... S ). brakes tend to be competent and have the right training and credentials allowed to other... Link to various products and gear I use link to various products and gear I use you not! Large-Sized trailer can be put on it, at least the ones issued by Texas it for you will that!, in general, for example hazardous materials trailer should not exceed 20,000 pounds, the! Properly working brake lights do well in preventing a lot rear collisions face a license plate using your truck a... 8,000 pounds lines is governed by the U.S. Department of Motor vehicles worrying about it in Texas or registration from. Certain trailers from nearby states to be registered in the us, you register! Hear multiple sources that tell you when you need and dont need a Class C CDL when youre a... Read the laws and requirements for towing a trailer in your state to you TxDMV... Be more than value of the trailer off -- the permissible maximum I often mention and link various... Informed me it would be more than value of the story: trailer brakes are necessary and helpful, youll!