hogbreth
Indian harbour Beach/Fl/USA
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Joined: 03/15/2004
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Can anyone tell me if you are required by law to have a brake buddy or similar device attaced to your toad. I just changed from a 5th wheel to a Class A.
Thanks for the help
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prescoop
Midlothian, VA
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Joined: 03/17/2004
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Have a brake buddy and am reasonably satisfied with it.
When researching the issue, one of the websites for brakes did show which states alledgedly had laws requiring them (quite a few), but don't remember which website that was. However, I never heard of anyone being sited for failure to have one and personally have driven 50,000 miles without one. However, decided to get one for the piece of mind of good safety and also if I was involved in an accident, I would not be blamed for failure to take adequate precautions.
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hairbrained
Glenolden, Pa.
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Joined: 11/12/2002
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Hi,
This usually generates alot of comments. I have a Brake Buddy because I feel the laws of different states require it. The requirements are state by state and some don't have any, but, if you travel through a state that does you better meet the requirements or some lawyer will show why you should have if you have an accident.
Police will normally not bother you until you have an accident, then they will let you know what the law is. Some people on this forum feel that all the requirements are for trailers, I don't think a judge would buy that argument.
What a difference in stopping distance when that Brake Buddy activates. Worth every penney and a great company to work with.
Good Luck
Gene
Gene/Lynne
1995 Georgie Boy (Encounter) 35FT, 460 Ford
1994 Merc. Tracer Station Wagon
Falcon Tow Bar, Brake Buddy, Banks Power Pack,Trans Command. Big Foot Auto Levelers.
Hauling two poodles, Tim/Oscar
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hamguy
Mostly Mesa, AZ in winter. Out & about for summers
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Joined: 11/02/2003
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As an attorney, I will tell you that were I representing a client injured by someone with a motorhome who failed to use brake assist in a toad, I would be on you like stink on a skunk. You can take it from there.
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DDVTX
Houston, Texas
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Joined: 01/16/2004
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Most states require brakes for a tarileror other vehicle towed behind the tow vehicle, which in this case would be the Class A. As the attorney stated, if you don't do it, and someone is hurt as a result, you are a big target, and as an RV owner many folks will side with the plantiff just because its assumed you are rich since you own the RV. So for that reason good liability coverage is also important, not just the bare minimum.
Be safe!
David (N5SNS), Darlene, and young Victoria (a RVing family)
FMCA; AAA; Tousand Trails; Good Sam Club Life Members; HR Club
38' HR Endeavor-D
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dppearce
San Diego, California, USA
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Joined: 03/17/2004
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California law requires a supplemetal brake system on any tow vehicle or trailer over 1,000 pounds. Most states have similar laws. Its cheaper to replace trailer brakes or the brakes on your tow vehicle than the brakes on your motorhome. Also, as a newbie I've experienced total brake failure on a motorhome because my tow vehicle did not have a supplemtal brake system. I'll never tow without one no matter what the laws of the state.
Dan & Laura
2004 Four Winds Hurricane 32R
Blue, Auge, Tippy & Cookie
(We needed the slides)
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retired logger
WA USA
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Joined: 12/10/2003
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I think there are only a couple of states that don't require a braking system on your tow rig, BUT... you have to be able to stop in a reasonable distance. Most states require toad (trailer) brakes on anything over 3,000 lb. Some are at 1,500 lb. Like the man said if you don't, and have a problem. Expect to have "Ol Whiplash Willy" knocking on your door.
Short time young and a long time old !
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Len Souza
San Jacinto, CA
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Joined: 10/13/2003
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I have used a brake buddy in my Honda CRV for years. It works very effectively--if you set it up properly. My State, CA, requires one for 1,000 lbs of towed weight. Most motor home manufacturers also require a tow car brake at 1,500 to 2,50o lbs, read your manual.
It is amazing how many RVers still do not use one and conform to the State laws. Your exposure (liability) is huge if you are involved in an accident with out tow car braking!
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Sorney1
MD
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Joined: 11/30/2003
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prescoop has said it all. reduce your liability
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patnchris
Gurnee, Il. USA
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Joined: 08/06/2002
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There is a lot of confusion regarding the laws in many states, as to what constitutes a "trailer". I suspect as time moves on, these laws will be rewritten to take away some of the confusion. I use BrakeBuddy, because it makes me feel good...I like the idea that I have taken steps to make my travel safer. Also, I do not think I would like my trip interupted by a state trooper, who does or does not understand the laws reguarding toad pulling. When I'm 1000 miles from home, I wouldn't relish the idea of going into court to prove a point.....Pat
Patrick and Christine
Dudley and Maggie May, the cocker spaniels
2007 Ford F150 4X4 Max tow package
2009 Eagle Super Lite 256RKS by Jayco
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