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Importance Of Trailer Brakes In Florida

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If you recently purchased your first large boat, you need to make sure that you meet all the legal requirements in Florida before you haul your boat down to the water. Florida has specific regulations in place for any trailers that are used to haul larger loads, such as a big sail boat, in order to keep you and the motorist around you safe on the road.

Trailer Brakes

The first thing you need to do is make sure that each wheel of your trailer is equipped with its own set of brakes. You are required by law to have each wheel on your trailer have its own set of brakes when you pull more than 3,000 pounds of weight.

Most larger boats will exceed this weight capacity; your owner’s manual that came with your boat should include weight information. If your boat is close to or …show more content…

You need to be able to see these taillights from at least 1,000 feet away. Be sure to test your taillights before you set off on the road.

Trailer Hitch & Safety Backups

If your trailer is hitched to your vehicle, you need to make sure that you have some safety back-ups in place as well to keep your trailer attached. You can use chains or cables as a back-up method to secure your trailer to your vehicle.

Trailer Permit

If you are towing an oversized boat, you will need to obtain a permit. Luckily, the state of Florida has made it relatively easy to obtain a permit. You just have to go to the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) website and use their Permit Application System (PAS) to apply for a permit.

If you are only going to need to haul your boat a few times a year, you can apply for a trip permit through the PAS. You can get approved online and print out your own permit. If you are going to be hauling your boat on a regular basis, you are going to need to apply for an Annual permit. You can still apply online for an Annual permit; however the permit itself is sent through the mail

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