Arkansas is a state defined by its diverse geography—from the flat, expansive Delta to the steep, winding climbs of the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains. Whether you are hauling hay in the Arkansas River Valley, transporting a boat to Lake Ouachita, or moving equipment through the hills of Northwest Arkansas, towing a trailer requires more than just a powerful truck. It demands a thorough understanding of state-specific laws, mechanical maintenance, and the unique challenges posed by the Natural State’s terrain. Before you hitch up for your next trip, it is vital to consult with a reputable Arkansas trailer dealer to ensure your equipment is properly rated for the task at hand. Safe towing is a combination of preparation, legal compliance, and a disciplined approach to the road.
Understanding Arkansas Weight and Braking Laws
Safety begins with compliance. In Arkansas, the legal requirements for trailers are designed to protect both the driver and the public from the increased momentum of heavy loads. One of the most critical laws involves braking systems. Under Arkansas Code § 27-37-501, any trailer with a gross weight of 3,000 pounds or more must be equipped with independent brakes. These brakes must be controllable by the driver from the cab of the towing vehicle and must include a “breakaway” system that automatically engages the trailer’s brakes if it becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle.
Furthermore, Arkansas sets specific size limits to ensure trailers can safely navigate standard lanes. The maximum width for a trailer is 102 inches, and the combined length of the vehicle and trailer cannot exceed 65 feet. Exceeding these limits without a special permit from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) not only invites heavy fines but also significantly increases the risk of “off-tracking,” where the trailer cuts corners more sharply than the truck, potentially leading to collisions with curbs, signs, or other motorists.
The Importance of Proper Weight Distribution
In Arkansas, where rural highways are often narrow and subject to high winds, how you load your trailer is just as important as how much you load. The “60/40 Rule” is the industry standard for weight distribution: approximately 60% of the cargo weight should be positioned in the front half of the trailer (closer to the tow vehicle), and the remaining 40% should be placed in the rear.
Proper distribution ensures adequate tongue weight, which is the downward pressure on the hitch. If the rear is too heavy, the trailer will likely experience “sway” or fishtailing, which can quickly lead to a loss of control, especially when traveling at highway speeds on I-40 or I-49. Conversely, too much weight in the front can overcompress the truck’s rear suspension, affecting steering and braking performance. Always secure your load with heavy-duty straps or chains to prevent shifting while navigating the switchbacks and elevation changes common in the northern half of the state.
Master the Mountains: Towing on Steep Grades
Towing in the Ozarks or the Ouachita National Forest presents a set of challenges that flatland drivers rarely encounter. When climbing a steep grade, heat is the enemy. To prevent your engine and transmission from overheating, it is often necessary to downshift to a lower gear, allowing the engine to run at a higher RPM without overstraining.
The descent is arguably more dangerous. Relying solely on your brakes while traveling down a mountain can lead to “brake fade,” a condition where the brakes overheat and lose their stopping power. Instead, use “engine braking” by shifting to a lower gear before you start the descent. This allows the engine’s compression to slow the vehicle, keeping your physical brakes cool and ready for an emergency stop. If you find your trailer beginning to sway during a descent, resist the urge to slam on the vehicle brakes; instead, manually apply the trailer brakes using the controller in your cab to straighten the rig out.
Pre-Trip Lighting and Safety Chain Inspections
Before every trip, a thorough walk-around inspection is mandatory. Arkansas law requires trailers to have functional tail lamps visible from at least 500 feet. If the trailer is 80 inches or wider, it must also have clearance lamps and side marker reflectors. Ensure that the license plate is illuminated by a white light, as this is a common reason for being pulled over by the Arkansas Highway Police.
Safety chains are another non-negotiable component. These should be crossed in an “X” pattern under the trailer tongue. This serves two purposes: first, the crossing creates a “cradle” that can catch the tongue if it falls off the hitch ball, preventing it from digging into the pavement and causing a flip. Second, crossing the chains provides more slack for tight turns while keeping the chains from dragging on the ground. Always ensure the chains are rated for a weight equal to or greater than the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the trailer.
Tire Maintenance for Rural and Gravel Roads
Arkansas has a vast network of gravel and unpaved roads, particularly in agricultural and timber-producing regions. These surfaces are notoriously hard on trailer tires. Before heading out, check the tire pressure on both the tow vehicle and the trailer while they are still “cold” (before driving). Underinflated tires generate excessive heat, which is the leading cause of blowouts.
In addition to pressure, inspect the sidewalls for “dry rot” or sun cracking. Trailers often sit idle for long periods between uses, and UV exposure can weaken the rubber even if the tread looks deep. When driving on Arkansas’s gravel roads, it is wise to reduce your speed. Gravel acts like ball bearings under a trailer’s tires, significantly increasing your stopping distance and reducing lateral stability. Sharp rocks can also easily puncture light-duty tires, so consider upgrading to a higher “Load Range” tire if you frequently travel off-pavement.
Visibility and Maneuvering in Tight Spaces
Towing effectively doubles your vehicle’s length and creates massive blind spots. In Arkansas, where you might find yourself navigating tight boat ramps or narrow farm gates, visibility is paramount. If your trailer is wider than your truck, extended towing mirrors are a legal and safety necessity. These mirrors allow you to see the entire length of the trailer and the lane behind it.
When backing up, remember the “hand at the bottom” trick: place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel; whichever way you move your hand is the direction the rear of the trailer will go. In crowded areas, such as a busy gas station in Little Rock or a popular campground at Devil’s Den State Park, always use a spotter if available. A second set of eyes can prevent thousands of dollars in property damage and ensure you don’t back into a low-hanging branch or a hidden stump.
Conclusion
Towing a trailer in Arkansas is a responsibility that requires constant vigilance and a commitment to safety. From the technical requirements of independent braking systems and safety chains to the practical skills of mountain driving and weight distribution, every detail matters. By adhering to state laws and maintaining your equipment with the help of a professional, you can ensure that your cargo—whether it is for work or play—reaches its destination securely. Remember that the road conditions in Arkansas can change in an instant, and a prepared driver is always the safest driver.
