How Far Can You Stick It to 'Em? (Legally, in Texas)
So, you've got a big ol' thing. Maybe it's a boat, a piece of lumber, or a really, really long surfboard. And you're wondering, "Can I just stick this bad boy out the back of my truck and cruise down the highway like a boss?" Well, buckle up, partner, because we're about to dive into the thrilling world of Texas truck laws.
The Short Answer: Not as Far as You'd Like
Let's get this out of the way: you can't just slap anything on the back of your truck and hit the road. Texas has rules, and for good reason. We don't want your surfboard taking out a whole family on vacation. It's just not polite.
The law says your load can’t stick out more than four feet beyond the back of your truck. That's about as long as a really tall person. So, if you're thinking about hauling something longer than that, you might need a special permit or a bigger truck.
The Fine Print (Because Texas Loves 'Em)
Now, there are a few exceptions to the four-foot rule. If you're carrying a car on a trailer, you can stick out a little further, but it's still got to be within reason. And if you're hauling something like a tree trunk or a giant piece of pipe, you might need some extra lights and flags to warn other drivers.
But let's be real, most of us aren't hauling timber or cars. We're just trying to get our stuff from point A to point B without causing a ruckus. So, measure twice, cut once (or load once, in this case), and for the love of all that's holy, secure your load. Nobody wants to be the reason for a traffic jam because your couch decided to take a solo road trip.
What About the Front?
Good question! Your load can't stick out more than three feet in front of your truck. So, no bull bars or giant brush guards that are going to wreck someone's day if you tap 'em.
Pro Tips for Load Hauling
- Measure it up: Get a tape measure and actually measure your load. It's tempting to eyeball it, but trust us, it's not worth the risk.
- Secure it tight: Use straps, chains, or ropes to tie down your load. And make sure it's tight. We're talking "can't-move-it" tight.
- Check your mirrors: Make sure you can see what's behind you. Blind spots are a real thing, and you don't want to accidentally back into someone's car.
- Drive defensively: Assume everyone else on the road is an idiot. Leave plenty of space between you and other cars, and be prepared to stop short.
How To...
- How to avoid a ticket? Follow the rules. It’s that simple.
- How to transport a really long thing? Consider renting a trailer or using a truck with a longer bed.
- How to secure an oddly shaped load? Get creative with your straps and padding.
- How to prevent your load from becoming a projectile? Tighten those straps!
- How to be a responsible driver? Pay attention to your surroundings and drive defensively.