6 Regulations You Need to Know Before Buying a Trailer in Michigan

UPDATE: Michigan’s New No-Fault Law went into effect July 1, 2020. The information on this page was written prior to the change in the law and may be out of date. Please visit https://callsam.com/michigan-no-fault-law/ for updated information on the new No-Fault law in Michigan.

Trailers are ideal for outdoor lovers who want to explore Michigan’s abundance of lakes, campgrounds and scenic vacation spots. However, many people don’t understand the complex rules and regulations for using and buying a trailer in Michigan. Before you make that all-important purchase, here is a guide to everything you should know about Michigan trailer laws.

When buying a trailer in Michigan, register it

All trailers in Michigan must be registered with the Secretary of State. If your trailer weighs more than 2,500 lbs., including trailer coaches, you will also need a title.

In addition, motorists must have both registration and title for all trailer coaches; including pop-up campers, travel trailers and fifth-wheel campers.

Those who own trailers weighing more than 9,999 lbs. should contact the Secretary of State for rules pertaining to larger vehicles.

Finally, drivers must display a current license plate on their trailer at all times. License plates issued for trailers are permanent and non-transferable.

Insurance rules for trailers

You will have to insure your trailer if it is considered a “motor vehicle” under Michigan No-Fault law. The Michigan Insurance Code (MCL 500.3101) defines a motor vehicle as follows:

A vehicle, including a trailer, that is operated or designed for operation on a public highway by power other than muscular power and has more than 2 wheels.

Accordingly, if your trailer has three or more wheels, you must insure it, including travel trailers and tractor-trailers. Michigan No-Fault insurance does not cover vehicle contents. Therefore, if you are hauling a boat or motorcycle, you should insure these valuable items separately.

If you own a two-wheel trailer, you are not required by law to insure it. However, it is a good idea to have insurance in the event you are involved in an accident.

Know the size limits for trailers

Consider the size regulations when buying a trailer in Michigan They are as follows:

• Trailer length: 45 feet
• Total length: 65 feet
• Width: 102 inches (this width may be exceeded if the trailer has an “appurtenance,” a pre-installed appendage that is an integral part of the vehicle)
• Height: 13 feet, 6 inches

Required safety features to consider when buying a trailer in Michigan

Michigan towing laws require all trailers to be equipped with certain safety equipment:

• At least one working tail light
• Minimum tire tread of 2/32″
• A light illuminating the trailer license plate
• Rear wheel mud flaps
• Trailers weighing 2,500 lbs. or more must have turn signals and two red or amber rear stop lights visible from at least 100 feet

Trailers weighing less than 3,000 lbs. must have:

• A single stop light (if the trailer’s load obscures the stop light on the towing vehicle)
• Two red rear reflectors

Trailers 3,000 lbs. or heavier are required to have all of the above in addition to the following:

• Independent braking system
• An amber reflector near the front of each side of the trailer
• Two amber clearance lights on the front of the vehicle and one on each side, visible from at least 500 feet
• Single red clearance lights near the rear of each side of the trailer
• Two red clearance lights on the back of the trailer

Additional rules for owning a trailer in Michigan

• Passengers are allowed to ride in travel trailers, pickup campers or fifth-wheel trailers.
• You may park a trailer overnight in some rest areas, but only as posted.
• Motorists may not exceed 55 mph when towing a trailer.
• Trailer hitches between vehicles cannot exceed 15 feet in length.
• Connections using chain, rope, or cable must display a red flag or other visible indicator.

Special rules for “recreational doubles”

This term refers to a pickup truck pulling a fifth-wheel trailer (such as an RV) with a second trailer attached to the rear.

Drivers wishing to tow a recreational double must be at least 18 and obtain an “R” license endorsement from the Secretary of State.

Michigan trailer laws are complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple.

Call 1-800-CALL-SAM today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Sources

• https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-500-3101
• https://www.michigan.gov/documents/recreational_double_21025_7.pdf
• https://www.michigan.gov/sos/vehicle/recreational-vehicles-watercraft
• https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-257-721