Road train lamp when towing a trailer
8. The following identification marks must be installed on vehicles:
“Road train” - in the form of three orange lights located horizontally on the roof of the cab with gaps between them from 150 to 300 mm - on trucks and wheeled tractors (1.4 t class and above) with trailers, as well as on articulated buses and trolleybuses;
Road train lights are installed only on the following types of vehicles:
- on trucks with trailers (regardless of category);
- on wheeled tractors heavier than 1,400 kg with trailers;
- on articulated buses;
- on articulated trolleybuses.
In this case, we are again talking about the type of vehicle:
For example, a pickup truck or a Category B van that is towing a trailer must have these lights installed.
On the other hand, on a bus that pulls a regular cargo trailer, a road train light is not required.
Passenger car for transporting passengers
A passenger car designed for transporting passengers can be used for personal purposes or as a taxi, but the rules for operating the car are largely similar:
- the number of people should not be greater than the number of seats;
- for children under 12 years of age, a special restraint device corresponding to the dimensions of the young passenger is required;
- Every person must wear a seat belt, including the driver;
- There is a special compartment for luggage; you cannot take bulky contents into the cabin;
- the previous requirement does not apply to hand luggage;
- the trunk, despite the presence of contents in it, must be closed;
- You can take a pet carrier into a taxi, but install it so as not to interfere with the driver’s view of the road in the rear-view mirrors.
In a passenger taxi, the rules for transporting people, as well as the contact information of the driver and the company, must be posted in a visible place.
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Why you shouldn't do this
But still, I think it would be correct to fully answer the question and explain why the traffic rules introduce such prohibitions.
Personally, I highlight several main reasons.
- Reason No1
. It is illegal. The rules provide for a ban on transportation, therefore their violation entails appropriate penalties. And not always only in the form of a monetary fine; - Reason No2
. Is it dangerous. I think the main reason is the high level of danger, and not the risk of getting a fine. The trailer can become uncoupled, get into an accident, or run into some kind of obstacle. The consequence may be serious injury. In the worst case scenario, such trips are fatal; - Reason No3
. It is not comfortable. I don’t recommend experimenting, just take my word for it. Traveling in a trailer is extremely uncomfortable. You will be thrown to the sides, you will start jumping on every bump. You will not be able to sit normally even in the most comfortable chair. Especially if you take into account the quality of the road surface in most regions of our country.
There are more than enough reasons. Therefore, this question can be considered closed.
No matter what anyone says, never agree to get into a trailer or transport people yourself. It's too dangerous and there are a lot of risks. It’s better to take a minibus or rent a more spacious car.
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Long flights, booking tickets and hotels, processing all documents causes a lot of inconvenience to travelers and takes a lot of time. And I want to relax and travel right now and in complete comfort. A real opportunity to fulfill this desire is a mobile home.
The prototype of mobile homes is the carts on which ancient people leading a nomadic lifestyle moved.
A mobile home refers to both integrated solutions in the form of residential vans and individual caravan trailers transported using a towing vehicle. Motorhomes are used for auto tourism. In Europe and North America, a popular type of auto tourism with overnight stops at campsites is popular.
And in the USA, mobile homes are still often used as a permanent place to live.
What is a caravan trailer?
Trailer-dacha (trailer, caravan)
– this is a living space equipped with everything necessary, in which from two to eight people can live (depending on the size).
The characteristics of caravan trailers indicate the number of sleeping places. The caravan trailer can be used both in summer and winter thanks to well-thought-out equipment.
Compared to a motorhome, a caravan trailer is much cheaper and easier to maintain, as it does not have a motorized chassis.
To transport a medium-sized caravan trailer, it is recommended to choose a car with an engine capacity of at least 1.8 liters. Remember that when transporting trailers, fuel consumption increases by 25-40%
(depending on the manner of movement). By the way, in European countries it is allowed to drive residential trailers at speeds of up to 80 km/h.
While driving, the law does not allow passengers to be transported in caravan trailers. This disrupts the balance and alignment of the trailer and can be dangerous for both the passenger and the driver of the vehicle who is sitting behind the wheel. And if passengers still move around the trailer, it and the towing vehicle may overturn. It's not worth the risk.
When traveling in a trailer, it is also important to keep in mind the amount of cargo that can be loaded into it. The loading rate in most cases is 200 kg
(minimum load 150 kg, maximum load 300 kg).
This load includes the weight of water in containers and the weight of gas cylinders. It is not recommended to overload the trailer, as this is an unnecessary and unjustified risk with your own property. It may seem that 200 kg is very little
. But, if you take a reasonable amount of only the most necessary things, 200 kg should be enough.
Approximate load calculation:
1. Two gas cylinders
–
30 kg.
2. Clean water
–
20-50 kg.
3. Extensions, jack, adapters, spare tire
–
20 kg.
4. Food and drinking water
–
10-20 kg.
5. Personal belongings (clothing, bed linen, etc.)
–
70-80 kg.
The total is from 150 to 200 kg.
What kind of dachas are there?
Caravan trailers differ from each other in their characteristics, sizes, and internal contents.
Types of caravan trailers depending on the number of axles:
1. Uniaxial.
2. Biaxial.
These trailers differ in their size and transportation capabilities. Single-axle ones are smaller than biaxial ones and can carry less cargo.
Types of caravan trailers depending on their features:
1. Trailer tent
(looks like a regular trailer, but has a built-in folding hood-shaped design, which significantly increases the living space when used permanently).
2. Travel trailer
(large-sized trailer, equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable existence for travelers).
3. Mini trailer
(a very small trailer that can even be used in tandem with motorcycles and scooters).
4. Hybrid trailer
(equipped with tents that extend to form sleeping places for passengers).
5. Fifth-wheel trailer
(the trailer is towed by a truck or pickup truck and is equipped with a fifth wheel hitch, which significantly reduces the overall length of the caravan).
Nuances of choice.
Which caravan trailer to choose depends on many factors. Let's look at what you should pay attention to when choosing a caravan trailer.
1. How do you plan to use the caravan trailer?
If you plan to use it stationary most of the time, then it is better to buy a biaxial model. They are larger than single-axis options and have quite interesting layouts. If you plan to spend the same amount of time on wheels and standing, we recommend choosing single-axle models with a long body. And if you plan to spend most of your time on the move, then you should pay attention to single-axis models with a short body. With them it will be easier to maneuver on the roads, easier to move around the city, and with less fuel consumption.
2. Number of travelers.
If you plan to travel in a group of 6-8 people, you will need to buy a large two-axle trailer. They are usually marked with the letter “K” (Kinder). At the same time, adults weighing up to 70 kg can also be accommodated on a children's bed. If you do not plan to go on a trip with a large group, then a small single-axle trailer will be enough. They can comfortably accommodate 3-5 people. Very stylish and attractive double trailers are produced for young companies. It is also worth remembering that when traveling frequently with a large group, it is better to choose trailers where the shower and toilet are located in the middle of the room. This way, no one will disturb anyone’s sleep if they want to visit the bathroom.
3. Trailer design.
The choice of color and other characteristics regarding the design of trailers depends only on the personal preferences of the buyer. Here you need to rely on your own taste.
4. Condition of the trailer (new or used).
If your financial situation allows, then it is certainly worth buying new trailers. Although among used trailers you can also choose very good options, and you can also save a lot. But remember that the warranty is provided only for new trailers and only if all operating rules are followed.
5. Cost of a caravan trailer.
The price of caravan trailers depends on many characteristics (condition, equipment, quality, etc.). For new models it starts from 10,000 euros, and for used models – from 5,000 euros.
6. Heating system for a caravan trailer.
The water heating system can withstand temperatures down to -45 degrees Celsius, and the air heating system - up to -15-25 degrees Celsius. But installing a water system will cost an order of magnitude more than an air system.
7. Trailer manufacturer.
Today, the choice of manufacturers of caravan trailers is very large and there are models for every taste. There are about 40 trailer manufacturers in Europe alone.
Let's look at the manufacturers of caravan trailers, their advantages and disadvantages.
1. Caravan trailers made in England.
The downside to these trailers is the thin plywood floors and lots of plastic on the interior and exterior. A definite plus is that the trailer is very well equipped (everything you need is included). Moreover, it is better not to buy trailers with a longitudinal seam on the roof - they are less reliable.
2. Caravan trailers made in Germany.
Very reliable trailers, but they do not have standard batteries, and the equipment in them only works from a 220 V network. As for specific brands, Fendt and TEC performed well
3. Caravan trailers made in Scandinavia.
Such trailers have poor quality furniture, and spare parts for them are very difficult to buy from us, but they are well insulated, which will appeal to winter travelers. Solifer and Polar are considered the best Scandinavian manufacturers.
4. Caravan trailers made in France.
Such trailers have an excellent and modern design, and their workmanship is at the same level.
But on French trailers the weight on the axle is distributed unevenly, which is bad for Ukrainian roads. Important! When selling caravan trailers, sellers often try to hide some defects, namely:
1. Rotten bottom
(it is difficult to determine such a defect, since the floor is covered with decorative material).
2. Rotten timber inside the wall
(the defect can be determined by the unpleasant characteristic odor inside the trailer and the wall, which is soft to the touch).
3. Damage to electrical equipment
(be sure to check all electronics, as replacing them will be problematic and expensive).
Necessary equipment.
The average trailer-dacha is equipped with everything necessary for comfortable and autonomous living of several people. Such trailers have the necessary furniture and built-in appliances (refrigerator, gas stove, boiler, heater, shower, bathroom, lighting fixtures, batteries, connectors for connecting external power sources, etc.). There are models that even provide space for transporting a car or motorcycle. The living space is mounted on a chassis.
The following are used as power sources in caravan trailers:
1. Standard batteries
(provided for in the basic package).
2. External network
(can be connected via a special connector in the trailer).
3. Gas cylinders
(installed in an isolated compartment of a caravan trailer).
A large number of European caravan trailers have a small volume water tank (15-20 l) installed. This is due to the fact that in Europe (and in the USA too), motor tourists stop overnight in campsites where there are showers and the required amount of water. So having a lot of water in the trailer is simply not necessary. But if you are planning to travel around Ukraine, then you should think about purchasing several water containers, since we have few places for camping. All furniture that is built into the trailer must be tightly latched, because when moving it can accidentally open and damage other equipment in the trailer.
Advantages and disadvantages of using dachas.
Using caravan trailers for travel has both advantages and disadvantages. Advantages
using a caravan trailer:
1.
At any time, you can unhook the trailer and continue to move around in your usual vehicle.
2.
Low cost compared to integrated options.
3.
They give you the opportunity to travel comfortably around the country and abroad and save on accommodation.
Flaws
using a caravan trailer:
1.
Low speed of travel on the road (no more than 80-90 km/h).
2.
The fuel consumption of the vehicle to which the caravan trailer is attached increases.
3.
Poor maneuverability.
4.
Many European cities do not allow entry to caravan trailers.
5.
Passengers are not allowed to be in the trailer when driving.
6.
To use trailers you must have the appropriate category of license.
What category of rights is needed?
According to the legislation of Ukraine and the Regulations on the procedure for issuing driver’s licenses and allowing citizens to drive vehicles, driving a caravan trailer requires one of the following categories of rights, depending on the type of tractor:
1. BE
– if cars are used as a tractor.
2. C1E
– if vehicles for transporting goods weighing 3500-7500 kg are used as a tractor.
3. C.E.
– if vehicles for transporting goods weighing more than 7500 kg are used as a tractor.
4. D1E
– if vehicles used as a tractor are used to transport passengers, in which the number of seats is less than 16 (not including the driver’s seat).
5. DE
– if vehicles for transporting passengers with more than 16 seats (not including the driver’s seat) are used as a tractor.
MTPL insurance for trailer
Article 4 of the Federal Law “On Compulsory Motor Liability Insurance” says the following:
3. The obligation to insure civil liability does not apply to owners of:
e) trailers for passenger cars belonging to citizens;
That is, for a personal trailer for a passenger car, registration of compulsory motor liability insurance is not required .
However, in all other cases, trailer insurance must be taken out. In 2021, a separate trailer policy will not be issued. Information about the use of a trailer is entered into the car insurance (check the box). However, the cost of insurance if you have a trailer can increase by up to 40 percent, although for some trailers it remains unchanged.
You can calculate the cost of a policy for using a trailer using the following calculator:
OSAGO calculator
