What Agencies Can Assess Damage to Trailer

Updated 05/09/2019 | Published 05/08/2019

Question:

I have a trailer that is rated at 10300lbs max towing weight. The tongue of the trailer broke off. It is being repaired. Do i need to have the trailer recertified before i haul anything. What agency regulates trailer repairs. I think the trailer needs to be totaled.

asked by: David H

Expert Reply:

Thank you for the photo of your trailer showing the damaged coupler.

Determining whether the damage to your trailer is safely repairable or not will require in-person examination by someone with an engineering background or by another authority such as your local DOT. Laws vary by state and may also vary by Parish/County; regulations can also differ between recreational and commercial trailers. I have included below some links to websites that may direct you to the right authority for making the determination about the trailer's condition.

I also suggest you submit the photo to your insurance carrier since even if a local trailer repair shop says it can be fixed, that is no good to you if your insurance carrier declines to provide coverage due to the nature of the damage.

http://trailers.com/state-laws/louisiana.php
https://www.wafb.com/story/22944265/utility-trailer-state-requirements
https://www.semasan.com/semaga/new/louisiana.pdf

expert reply by: Adam R