Towing a trailer or caravan can be a practical solution for travel or transport, but it comes with unique responsibilities, especially regarding speed limits. Whether you’re a first-time tower or a seasoned caravanner, understanding the legal speed limit for a car towing a trailer on a motorway is critical to safety and compliance.
The Legal Speed Limit for Cars Towing Trailers in the UK
In the UK, the maximum speed limit for cars towing a trailer or caravan on a motorway is 60 mph (96 km/h). This is lower than the standard motorway speed limit of 70 mph for cars not towing.
📌 Key Point:
If you tow a trailer on a dual carriageway or motorway, you must not exceed 60 mph, even if the posted speed limit is higher.
Where Are Trailers Not Allowed?
You cannot tow a trailer in the outside (fast) lane of a motorway with three or more lanes unless all other lanes are closed due to roadworks or incidents. Sticking to the inside or middle lanes helps maintain safe traffic flow.
Penalties for Exceeding Towing Speed Limits
Speeding while towing a trailer can result in:
- Points on your license
- Fines (usually starting from £100 and rising)
- Insurance complications
- Potential prosecution if the speed led to unsafe conditions or accidents
Law enforcement and roadside cameras can detect if a vehicle is towing and traveling above 60 mph.
Towing Speed Summary Table (UK Roads)
| Road Type | Speed Limit for Cars Towing a Trailer |
| Motorway | 60 mph |
| Dual Carriageway | 60 mph |
| Single Carriageway | 50 mph |
| Built-Up Areas | 30 mph (unless otherwise posted) |
Safety Tips When Towing a Trailer on the Motorway
- Check Your Load: Make sure the trailer is correctly loaded and evenly balanced. Overloading or poor distribution increases sway risk.
- Use Extended Mirrors: These help you see past the trailer and stay aware of overtaking vehicles.
- Maintain Longer Stopping Distances: Trailers increase stopping time—maintain extra distance.
- Avoid Sudden Maneuvers: Sharp braking or turning at high speeds can destabilize the trailer.
- Perform Regular Checks: Ensure the hitch, electrics, and brakes are functioning before and during travel.
Trailer Towing Law Compliance
According to UK trailer towing laws, both the towing vehicle and the trailer must:
- Have valid insurance
- Be roadworthy
- Be correctly licensed (drivers who passed after 1997 must check their entitlements)
- Be loaded within legal weight limits
Always verify if your driving license covers the weight category of trailer you intend to tow.
Final Thoughts
Towing a trailer or caravan is perfectly safe—when done legally and responsibly. By sticking to the motorway speed limit of 60 mph, avoiding the right lane, and ensuring your vehicle is properly equipped, you’ll protect both yourself and other drivers.
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or hauling work equipment, always keep towing laws, speed restrictions, and road safety front of mind.
FAQs
Q: Can I drive 70mph when towing a trailer on a motorway?
A: No. The limit is 60mph even if the road limit is higher.
Q: What happens if I’m caught speeding with a trailer?
A: You may receive fines, penalty points, or even lose your license depending on the severity.
Q: Are towing speed limits different in Europe?
A: Yes, always check local regulations before traveling abroad.
