Towing Trailers: Can You Hitch A Fifth Wheel?

If you're planning a trip and want to bring more than your fifth-wheel camper can fit, you might be wondering if you can pull a trailer behind it. This practice, known as triple towing, is legal in many states, but it's important to be aware of the regulations that apply. About 28 states permit triple towing, but each state has its own set of limitations and rules regarding passenger safety, vehicle length, and driving speed. Before embarking on your journey, it's crucial to research the specific laws and requirements of each state you'll be travelling through to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Triple towing is legal in some states

Triple towing, or towing two trailers behind a vehicle, is legal in some US states. However, it is essential to be aware of the specific regulations and restrictions that apply in each state. These regulations may include speed limits, length restrictions, and whether passengers are allowed to ride in the towed vehicles.

• Alaska: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Arizona: Maximum combined length of 65 feet for two vehicles, with the middle vehicle being a 5th wheel.
• Arkansas: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• California: A special endorsement is required on the driver's license if the overall combined length exceeds 40 feet.
• Colorado: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Connecticut: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Hawaii: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Idaho: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Indiana: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Iowa: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Kentucky: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Louisiana: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Minnesota: Requires the first trailer to be a 5th wheel type trailer.
• Michigan: Requires a special endorsement on the driver's license and restricts the second trailer to recreational equipment.
• Missouri: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Montana: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Nebraska: Maximum combined length of 65 feet for two vehicles.
• Nevada: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• New Mexico: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• North Carolina: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• North Dakota: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Ohio: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Pennsylvania: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• South Carolina: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• South Dakota: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Tennessee: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Utah: No specific restrictions mentioned.
• Vermont: No specific restrictions mentioned.

It is important to note that laws and regulations can change over time, so it is always advisable to check the most up-to-date information for each state before planning a trip involving triple towing. Additionally, some states may have further restrictions or requirements, such as specific driving rules for safety.

The length of the vehicle combination is restricted in some states

California

California does not allow Longer Combination Vehicles (LCVs) on interstate highways and state routes. LCVs are tractor-trailer combinations with two or more trailers that may exceed 80,000 pounds in gross vehicle weight. However, local jurisdictions may permit LCVs on local streets and roads with the necessary permits. The maximum combined length for a truck and trailer in California is 65 feet. Triple towing is not allowed in California.

Arizona

Arizona has a maximum combined length of 65 feet for two vehicles and only allows a fifth wheel to be the middle vehicle.

Texas

The overall length of a vehicle combination in Texas is capped at 65 feet.

Minnesota

In Minnesota, triple towing is permitted up to a maximum combined length of 70 feet.

Illinois

Illinois allows triple towing for combinations with a length of up to 60 feet.

Georgia

Georgia does not have specific restrictions on triple towing but it is advised to check local regulations before attempting to triple tow in this state.

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, triple towing is allowed, and there is a restriction on the overall length of the RV, which should be no more than 40 feet to avoid the need for a Commercial Driving License (CDL).

Michigan

Michigan refers to triple towing as "Recreational Double (R)" and allows a maximum combined length of 75 feet.

Oregon

In Oregon, triple towing is not permitted. The maximum combined length for a truck and trailer is 65 feet.

Washington

Triple towing is not permitted in Washington. The maximum combined length for a truck and trailer is 60 feet.

New York

New York does not allow triple towing. The maximum combined length for a truck and trailer is 65 feet.

Florida

Florida permits triple towing with a maximum combined length of 65 feet.

The weight of the trailer is important

The weight of the trailer will also affect your acceleration and stopping speed. This can be dangerous if you're driving in hazardous weather conditions or need to react to unexpected circumstances on the road. It will also make it harder to drive through wind, slick roads, and bad weather.

In addition, the weight of the trailer will make your vehicle longer, which can make it hard to navigate tight spaces and narrow roads. There is a greater risk of property damage, both to yourself and others. It will also be very difficult, if not impossible, to back up with a trailer attached to your 5th-wheel camper.

Finally, the weight of the trailer will affect your vehicle's visibility. It will be hard to see cars behind your 5th-wheel camper, and the added obstruction of an additional trailer will make it even harder. You'll need to be very careful when turning or making lane changes.

Before attempting to tow a trailer with your 5th-wheel camper, be sure to check the relevant laws and regulations for the states you'll be driving through. Some states may require you to obtain a special permit or endorsement for triple towing. In addition, some states have restrictions on the total weight of the vehicles being towed.

Safety measures are required in some states

When triple towing, safety measures are required in some states. Here are some essential safety precautions to keep in mind:

Turn Signals and Brake Lights:

It is crucial to have functioning turn signals and brake lights on all vehicles involved in the triple tow setup. These lights play a vital role in alerting other drivers of your intentions and potential hazards ahead. Ensure that the lights are hooked up and operational before embarking on your journey.

License Plate and Light:

All towable vehicles should have a visible license plate attachment. Make sure your license plate is properly registered and clearly visible from the rear for easy identification by other drivers and authorities.

Safety Chains and/or Breakaway Brakes:

Safety chains provide an extra layer of security by creating an additional anchor point between your vehicle and the trailers. These chains are crossed in an X shape and attached at diagonal angles to each attachment. In the event that the connecting hitch fails or comes loose, these safety chains will help keep the trailer securely attached.

Breakaway brakes serve a similar purpose but are attached to the trailer wheels. If the trailer detaches while driving, these brakes will activate and prevent it from rolling uncontrollably. Using both safety chains and breakaway brakes is ideal, but at the very least, one of these safety measures should be implemented.

Reflective Strips or Panels:

Reflective strips or panels are crucial for enhancing the visibility of your triple tow setup, especially during low-light conditions. Attach these reflective elements along the back and sides of each attachment, ensuring they are clearly visible at eye level and form a distinct outline of your entire rig.

Road Flares:

While not mandatory, having road flares on hand can be extremely useful in the event of an accident or equipment malfunction. They can help alert other drivers to potential hazards and create a safety buffer around your vehicle.

Special Permits:

Some states, like Michigan, require drivers intending to triple tow to obtain a special permit. This often involves a small fee and may include a test to demonstrate your driving skills and the suitability of your setup for the road.

Speed and Length Restrictions:

Many states that permit triple towing have specific regulations regarding maximum vehicle length and speed limits. Adhere to these restrictions to avoid penalties and ensure a safer driving experience.

Passenger Restrictions:

Some states have regulations regarding where passengers can ride during triple towing. In certain states, passengers may be restricted to the tow vehicle only, prohibiting them from riding in the RV or fifth wheel.

Tow Hitch and Weight Limits:

It is imperative to use a tow hitch that complies with the weight limits of your fifth wheel and the vehicle being towed. Check the weight limits of your hitch and ball to ensure they can handle the combined weight of the fifth wheel and the additional vehicle.

Visibility and Lane Discipline:

Triple towing significantly reduces your visibility due to the added obstruction of the extra trailer. Always double-check your mirrors and be cautious when changing lanes or making turns. Stay in the right or middle lane, especially in populated areas with frequent on and off-ramps, to avoid holding up traffic.

Some states require a special permit or license

When towing a trailer behind a 5th-wheel camper, it is important to be aware of the regulations and requirements that may apply. Triple towing, as this practice is known, is legal in many states, but it is prohibited in some. Each state has its own set of rules and limitations, so it is crucial to research the specific laws for the states you will be travelling through.

One important consideration is whether passengers are allowed to be aboard the towed vehicles. Some states mandate that passengers can only ride in the tow vehicle, such as a truck, and not in the RV or trailer. This means that if you are triple towing, with a truck towing an RV that is towing a toy hauler, passengers may be prohibited from riding in the RV.

In addition to passenger restrictions, several states have regulations regarding the overall combined length of the vehicles. For example, California requires a special endorsement on your license if the combined length exceeds 40 feet. Arizona and Texas have maximum combined length limits of 65 feet for two vehicles, with Arizona specifying that the 5th-wheel trailer must be the middle vehicle.

Furthermore, some states, like Wisconsin, require a special permit for triple towing. Speed restrictions may also apply in certain states, with some regulating the speed for triple towing vehicles.

It is worth noting that triple towing is not allowed in all states. As of the time of writing, 22 states do not permit this practice. These states have various reasons for the prohibition, including high traffic volume and narrow highways.

Therefore, when planning a trip involving triple towing, it is essential to carefully map out your route and be aware of the regulations in each state you will be travelling through. By doing so, you can avoid potential legal issues and ensure a safer journey.

Frequently asked questions