Community Forums

GNICK · 08-21-2018, 12:58 PM

I pulled into a left turn lane behind a DP towing a small crossover (4 wheels down). The coach was signaling a left turn but none of the lights (brake or signal) on the car were operating. Is this not a violation? What's the universal sign to inform such a driver that he needs to stop and check it out?

It's not like we couldn't see the coach's signal, but if he were running at night the problem would be much different.

96Bounder1st · 08-21-2018, 01:03 PM

Red and Blue flashing light?

Could be cord came out on toad or coach or he doesn’t have a hook up.

No signal that I aware of for no lights other then getting stopped and ticketed.

Terry

CJ7365 · 08-21-2018, 02:10 PM

I am a big proponet of MYOB, and that's what I do, I am not law enforcement officer.

aether_one · 08-21-2018, 02:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CJ7365

I am a big proponet of MYOB, and that's what I do, I am not law enforcement officer.

So you just look the other way at all safety hazards that you could address/correct?

How high are your walls?

FIRE UP · 08-21-2018, 02:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GNICK

I pulled into a left turn lane behind a DP towing a small crossover (4 wheels down). The coach was signaling a left turn but none of the lights (brake or signal) on the car were operating. Is this not a violation? What's the universal sign to inform such a driver that he needs to stop and check it out?

It's not like we couldn't see the coach's signal, but if he were running at night the problem would be much different.

It's not only required but, it's pure common sense. I for one, want to make darn sure that following drivers, are made aware of my intentions of future actions. Everyone's thoughts on just how that's accomplished are not always the same. I have ALWAYS used the stock tail lights and factory bulbs as toad lights. The way I look at it, (no or, pun intended) is, I want folks to see the same action in my toads tail lights when I'm pulling it, as they do when I'm driving it. And that includes AMBER turn signals if, I have a toad with those color turn signals.

So, as for why the person didn't have theirs working, who knows? Laziness, cord fell out as has been suggested, maybe magnetic lights and they fell off, all kinds of reasons. And yes, there are folks that think that, since their coach tail lights are not COMPLETELY blocked by the toad, then any following driver will see the coach lights and therefore, no need to wire the toad. I've seen that a few times in our travels and, managed to strike up a conversation with some of those folks and that was their reasoning for no electrical hookup for the toad. Hmmmm. Not a good plan.
Scott

sdennislee · 08-21-2018, 02:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CJ7365

I am a big proponet of MYOB, and that's what I do, I am not law enforcement officer.

Worst answer of the day. Suggest you google and watch the safety video "Remember Charlie".

Here I did it for you https://www.bing.com/search?q=rememb...72C4014F0FB06B

TXTiger · 08-21-2018, 02:27 PM

The traffic laws vary from state to state but I am sure that tail lights are required in all states even on a vehicle being towed. Most states also require a supplemental braking system too for towed vehicles and trailers. As far as what you can do, about the only thing is if you see them pull over and stop you can stop too and advised them in a polite way that their lights are out.

THenman · 08-21-2018, 02:30 PM

Not easy to get drivers attention to alert them to a problem. I suppose hooking and pointing is perhaps only real option esp. if it is a fire at the toad instead of just light problem.

One could try calling police and having them let the person know but that has it's drawbacks, esp. if it was a mechanical failure and driver gets ticket. Plus one can never be sure police can get to it as it would be lower priority than some other things.

Tom

BRex45 · 08-21-2018, 02:50 PM

Yes, I was driving on I-5 and noticed a 42' pusher ahead of me. One pin had worked out of his toad's towbar and only one arm was holding the toad to the RV.

As I slowly passed the affected motorhome I briefly thought to warn him of what could be a disastrous situation but then recalled that:

I am a proponent of MYOB so instead of getting involved, I merrily cruised along, quite content with myself and feeling perhaps a bit superior too!

Ret.LEO · 08-21-2018, 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FIRE UP

It's not only required but, it's pure common sense. I for one, want to make darn sure that following drivers, are made aware of my intentions of future actions. Everyone's thoughts on just how that's accomplished are not always the same. I have ALWAYS used the stock tail lights and factory bulbs as toad lights. The way I look at it, (no or, pun intended) is, I want folks to see the same action in my toads tail lights when I'm pulling it, as they do when I'm driving it. And that includes AMBER turn signals if, I have a toad with those color turn signals.

So, as for why the person didn't have theirs working, who knows? Laziness, cord fell out as has been suggested, maybe magnetic lights and they fell off, all kinds of reasons. And yes, there are folks that think that, since their coach tail lights are not COMPLETELY blocked by the toad, then any following driver will see the coach lights and therefore, no need to wire the toad. I've seen that a few times in our travels and, managed to strike up a conversation with some of those folks and that was their reasoning for no electrical hookup for the toad. Hmmmm. Not a good plan.
Scott

X2

Superburban · 08-21-2018, 03:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GNICK

What's the universal sign to inform such a driver that he needs to stop and check it out?

Not to long ago, the signal was to hold up your CB mic. The other driver would get the hint to turn his on, so you could tell him. Now everybody thinks there is no need for a CB. Just that one time where someone can tell you that you have an issue, could save you a ticket, or worse, and more then pay for the CB. Even if you only ever turn it on that one time.

tcg · 08-21-2018, 03:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tfryman

So you just look the other way at all safety hazards that you could address/correct?

How high are your walls?

What's the solution in this situation?

Follow and try to alert them? That could be dangerous.

Call 911 and tie up emergency operators for something that's not an emergency?

Seriously what's the solution other than getting on with your day.

That being said if they were pulling into a gas station or any parking lot I might follow them in and let them know, might.

TonyMac · 08-21-2018, 03:44 PM

If it were my toad, I'd like to know. But how would you tell me? I do lights as part of my walkaround every morning, but stuff can happen in the middle of the trip. I hate finding I have to fix my lights when the engine is running and I'm doing my walkaround.

xrated · 08-21-2018, 03:50 PM

The state of TN does NOT require taillights or brake lights on a trailer being towed, as long as the TV's rear lights are visible. I have no idea about a car (toad) being pulled, but it is OK for a trailer (not very smart in my opinion), none the less, legal. TN also doesn't require a license plate for a trailer.