what restrictions apply when towing a trailer on a motorway

When towing a trailer on a UK three‑lane motorway, you are limited to 60 mph and you must not use the right‑hand (outside) lane.

Core legal restrictions

• Maximum speed for a car towing a trailer or caravan on a motorway is 60 mph, even where other traffic is allowed 70 mph.

• On a motorway with three or more lanes, a vehicle towing a trailer cannot use the right‑hand (offside) lane except in very limited circumstances such as lane closures.

• This rule applies regardless of the type of trailer (e.g. box trailer, caravan) because towing reduces acceleration and manoeuvrability, so staying out of the outside lane helps keep faster traffic flowing safely.

Other important limits

• Typical maximum trailer width is 2.55 m and, for cars and light vehicles up to 3,500 kg, maximum trailer length is about 7 m, so over‑sized trailers are not permitted.

• Trailers over 750 kg must be fitted with working brakes, and exceeding the stated weight limits for your vehicle and trailer can result in fines, prohibitions, and invalidated insurance.

Practical towing tips for motorways

• Stay mainly in the left lane, using the middle lane only when necessary to overtake, then return to the left when it is safe.

• Ensure the trailer is correctly coupled, lights and tyres are in good condition, and the load is secure and well balanced to avoid sway at motorway speeds.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.