With busy holiday travel on the horizon, the Wisconsin State Patrol is providing safety tips for summer travelers with trailers and campers in tow.
“State Patrol troopers and inspectors are on the roads every day to make sure travelers get to their destination safely,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Drivers have the biggest role in travel safety and should be checking load securement, trailer connections, and weight and dimension limits when planning a trip with a trailer or camper.”
WisDOT establishes vehicle weight and width restrictions to ensure the safety of the traveling public while maintaining the integrity of Wisconsin roads. Maximum dimensions allowed for common recreational vehicles operating on highways in Wisconsin are as follows:
- Width: 8.5 feet
- Height: 13.5 feet
- Length of drivable motorhome or single vehicle: 45 feet
- Length of combined truck and trailer: 70 feet
- Length of towable camper: 46 feet long
Motorists are also required to follow posted weight restrictions on local roads and bridges. Refer to WisDOT’s maximum weight limitations chart for general highway guidelines.
Drivers may be eligible for an oversize-overweight permit if these limits are exceeded. For questions or to get a permit, please call (608) 266-7320 or visit WisDOT’s website.
Three-vehicle trains, including combinations of camper trailers, boats and recreational vehicle trailers, do not require a permit from WisDOT as long as they meet operating conditions specified in state statute.
Secure loads and check trailer connections
When hauling a camper or trailer, the driver is responsible for ensuring it is in good mechanical condition and safely attached to the vehicle.
Before traveling, make sure:
- Trailer tires, axles, bearings and lights are in proper working condition
- The ball and hitch coupling assembly are the same size and latch securely
- Two safety chains of proper length and strength are attached between the vehicle and trailer with enough slack to allow proper turning; attaching the safety chains in a crisscross pattern creates a cradle to catch the tongue of the trailer if an unexpected disconnection occurs
- If you are hauling a boat, be sure it is secured to the trailer in the front and back
- Weight is properly distributed; trailers must be loaded correctly to prevent sway and fishtailing by placing the majority of the weight to the front of the trailer
Debris falling on the road is dangerous and can cause a serious crash or damage to other vehicles. To properly secure your load:
- Tie it down with rope, netting or straps
- Tie large objects directly to your vehicle or trailer
- Cover the entire load with a sturdy tarp or netting
- Don’t overload the vehicle or trailer
- Always double check to make sure the load is secure
Find additional information on load securement on WisDOT’s website.
