Do Lights have to be Added to a Trailer Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier

Updated 07/24/2013 | Published 07/21/2013

Products Featured in This Question

Light Kit for Draw-Tite, Tow Ready, and Rola Railed Cargo Carriers

(242)

$43.49

Question:

One reviewer mentioned that some states require that a cargo carrier be lit like a trailer, particularly if it obstructs vehicle tail lights. Do you happen to know what states require this? Later this summer, we will be traveling across a number of states from the East Coast to the mid-west. I would like to avoid having to research each states rules. Thx.

asked by: Jp

Expert Reply:

Basically, in any state in the union, if the rear license plate or lights are obscured in any way, a police officer can pull you over, regardless of the specific verbiage of the laws. Beyond that it is just a good idea to add lights for safey. For the Reese cargo carrier # 63153 you can use light kit # 20174.

In order to use the lights your vehicle will need to have a 4-Way trailer connector. If your 2012 Toyota Highlander does not have a trailer connector you can use # 118449. I have linked some videos and instructions for you.

expert reply by: Michael H