Motorists equipped with this accessory generally drive with it without worrying about the regulations in force. However, they can face a hefty fine if they are checked.
Many cars have a trailer hitch, which can be very useful for transporting bulky items that would not fit in the trunk of the vehicle or that would get it dirty. In general, motorists use a trailer as a solution to store everything they need. To be able to attach it to their car, they use a tow ball, also called a “tow hook” or “trailer hitch”. It is nothing more and nothing less than a metal ball joint, which is fixed by a hook to the chassis at the rear of the vehicle. This small device also helps to tie down a caravan or install a bicycle rack. As you will have understood, this accessory can be used for multiple occasions, but it must still comply with the regulations in force.
In fact, some motorists drive with their tow hook attached to their vehicle, without knowing that they are bound by certain obligations. Although no law currently requires the dismantling of the tow ball when not in use, it must not hinder the identification of the vehicle in the event of an inspection or violation. Concretely, the towing hook must not obscure the car’s license plate. It must be installed low enough so as not to obscure a letter or number on the plate.
The Road Safety website formally declares this: “an absence of a registration plate or an illegible or non-compliant plate is an offence”, punished by law. If you are at fault, and you are stopped by the police, you risk facing a 4th class fine. In other words, the amount of the fine can reach a maximum of 750 euros in the event of an increase. The fixed amount amounts to 135 euros. We also remind you that if you are towing a caravan, a trailer or a bicycle rack, you must attach a second license plate, reproducing the rear plate of the “tractor” vehicle and which must also be clearly legible.