(A129, R144, H3355)

AN ACT TO AMEND THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS BY ADDING SECTION 56-5-4072 SO AS TO PROVIDE THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH VEHICLE OPERATORS UTILIZING FIFTH WHEEL ASSEMBLIES MAY TOW AN ADDITIONAL TRAILING VEHICLE.

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:

Towing

SECTION 1.    Article 33, Chapter 5, Title 56 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:

Section 56-5-4072.    The operator of a vehicle utilizing a fifth wheel assembly may tow one additional trailing vehicle, provided that:

(1) the operator has been issued a classified driver's license by the department;

(2) the operation is for private, recreational purposes only;

(3) the combined length of all three vehicles does not exceed sixty-five feet, inclusive of front and rear bumpers and load;

(4) the weight of the final trailer with its load does not exceed three thousand pounds;

(5) the towing truck is equipped with a functioning video system that enables the operator to monitor the final trailer as it is being towed; and

(6) in addition to the drawbar, tongue, trailer hitch, or other primary connection, the final trailer is attached by a safety chain, safety cable, or equivalent safety device. Both the primary connection and the safety device must be of sufficient strength to retain the connection between the fifth wheel assembly and the final trailer under all conditions while the final trailer is being towed.

Time effective

SECTION 2.    This act takes effect sixty days after approval by the Governor.

Ratified the 8th day of May, 2024.

Approved the 13th day of May, 2024.

This web page was last updated on June 24, 2024 at 4:22 PM