Towing with A-Frames: What the UK Law Actually Says

If you’ve ever walked around a motorhome show, you’ll know the question that never dies — “Can I tow my car behind my motorhome using an A-Frame?”

It’s a hot topic, especially since Regulation 13, the EU braking rule that came into force on 1 November 2014, stirred up confusion about whether A-Frames were suddenly illegal.

So, let’s clear the air.

What Regulation 13 Is (and Isn’t)

Regulation 13 came out of EU Regulation 661/2009, which replaced the old braking rules in Directive 71/320/EEC.The change meant that new vehicles and trailers registered after 1 November 2014 now had to comply with UNECE Regulation 13, instead of the older directive.

Cue panic — because many thought that would spell the end for A-Frame towing systems that rely on overrun brakes.

But here’s the thing: an A-Frame is neither a vehicle nor a trailer.

That means it doesn’t fall under the European Type Approval rules in the first place.

What the Department for Transport (DfT) Says

To get a straight answer, the Department for Transport was asked for clarification. Here’s what they said in plain English:

“An A-Frame, being neither a vehicle nor a trailer, is not subject to type approval and therefore there is no direct impact on these devices stemming from this legal change.”

In other words — nothing actually changed when Regulation 13 came in.

The DfT confirmed that the UK continues to recognise both the old and new braking standards under the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. A-Frames remain outside the scope of type approval, and the UK has no plans to change that flexible approach.

What This Means for You

If you’re towing a small car behind your motorhome using an A-Frame within the UK, you’re not breaking the law — as long as your setup meets general construction, lighting, and braking requirements.

But before you plan a European road trip, keep in mind: other countries don’t have to accept A-Frames.Their national laws may treat your towed car as a trailer, which could mean you’re not compliant once you cross the Channel.

Still Unsure? Check the DfT Info Sheet

The DfT’s 2011 Information Sheet on A-Frames and Dollies still stands. Nothing that happened on 1 November 2014 changed its contents, and it remains the go-to reference for how these systems are viewed under UK law.

If in doubt, check your A-Frame supplier’s documentation and make sure your braking system is up to standard before you tow.

Brent’s Take

At Brent, we’re all for making towing simple — but we’re even bigger fans of keeping it safe and legal.

If you’re planning to tow a car behind your motorhome, make sure you’re set up correctly and know where your A-Frame is accepted.

And if you’d rather keep it easy, you can always find braked car transporters and trailers through Brent that are fully compliant, tested, and road-ready — no grey areas, no guesswork.

Contact Now

-Brent