Receiver hitch cargo carrier??

[KHoes203]

Is it legal to have them on your vehicle because it blocks you license plate? Been having this argument with my dad for awhile now and just wanted the brain trusts answer. I have used them before and had two cops on my tail and they never flipped the lights on.

[Richard M.]

Technically it is. It's up to the officers discretion whether to write you up or not. I've been pulled over a couple of times for it and just got a warning each time. I believe it was an excuse to pull me over to snoop around for something else both times. My brother inlaw is a state trooper. I've discussed it with him before and was told you couldn't block the license plate, but he sees them every day and someone would have to be a complete arse to write a ticket for it.

[Speedgoat]

It is legal. Texas has a two-plate requirement.

[TMC50]

Basically what Richard said.....

I have had them with no problem and have known people that have had problems....

[big_smith]

Richard is dead on-a hitch carrier is not illegal, the fact that the LP is obstructed is the offense. I have personally been pulled over multiple times for this, but always got a warning. Not to say they could not issue a citation. The proper way to utilize the hitch hauler would be to move the license plate to a visible location.

[KDinTX]

Richard is dead on-a hitch carrier is not illegal, the fact that the LP is obstructed is the offense. I have personally been pulled over multiple times for this, but always got a warning. Not to say they could not issue a citation. The proper way to utilize the hitch hauler would be to move the license plate to a visible location.

but in doin this of you dont provide a light if driving at night it is then a ticketable offense

[jerp]

I dove a Jeep Cherokee for years, so a hitch hauler was pretty much a necessity when going to the lease. I never got a ticket but I got tired of being pulled over and warned about it - I started taking the plate off and duct taped it to an ice chest or whatever I was hauling.

[Cooper]

richard is dead on-a hitch carrier is not illegal, the fact that the lp is obstructed is the offense. I have personally been pulled over multiple times for this, but always got a warning. Not to say they could not issue a citation. the proper way to utilize the hitch hauler would be to move the license plate to a visible location.

x2

[Todd-ty729]

but in doin this of you dont provide a light if driving at night it is then a ticketable offense

Technically yes, but like was said before usually pulling over a vehicle for a light out almost always results in a warning.

I suspect they are using minor infractions as a way to check for DWI in most cases. Not all drunks weave from lane to lane.

Just be polite and the LEO will usually show forgiveness! Give them an attitude and see where that gets you.

[daveally]

On a side note, I used to want one of those hitch carriers until I saw one break on an SUV on Beltway 8. That lady threw sparks for a couple of hundred yards before she finally came to a stop.