31Light motor vehicles not to tow trailers except in certain cases

31 Light motor vehicles not to tow trailers except in certain cases

(1)  In this regulation –

towing capacity of the motor vehicle means –

(a) the towing capacity of the motor vehicle as specified by the manufacturer of the motor vehicle; or

(b) if the towing capacity is not specified or is not able to be identified –

(i) 1.5 times the unloaded mass of the motor vehicle, if the trailer is fitted with brakes that are in working order; or

(ii) the unloaded mass of the motor vehicle, if the trailer is not fitted with brakes that are in working order;

towing capacity of the towing attachment means the towing capacity of the towing attachment as specified by its manufacturer.

(2)  A person must not use, or cause or permit the use of, a light motor vehicle to tow a trailer if the trailer has a loaded mass exceeding –

(a) the towing capacity of the motor vehicle; or

(b) the towing capacity of the towing attachment fitted to the motor vehicle.

Penalty:  In the case of –

(a) a first offence, a fine not exceeding 20 penalty units; or

(b) a subsequent offence, a fine not exceeding 40 penalty units.