SMMT Guide on Trailers > Towing Unbraked Trailers
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Towing Unbraked Trailers
In the absence of vehicle manufacturer's specific restrictions for unbraked trailers the following will apply: (1986 C&U Reg. 87)
Unbraked trailers may only be towed by vehicles having a kerbside weight of at least twice the actual in-use weight of the trailer.
For example, a vehicle with a kerbside weight of 1000kg is restricted to towing an unbraked trailer of 500kg including load, even if the trailer has a MAM of 750kg.
However, if the vehicle manufacturer recommends a lower weight, this figure should not be exceeded. This is not strictly a legal stipulation, but failure to comply may be viewed as using a vehicle in an unsafe condition and can lead to prosecution.
