AL HB339

Requires motor vehicle operators towing trailers to use a Department of Public Safety-approved safety device (locking mechanism) that prevents trailer detachment during transport.

Safety device must provide strength and stability equal to or greater than safety chains, prevent trailer detachment if the regular coupling device breaks or fails, and prevent the coupling device from dropping to the ground.

Establishes the crime of towing a trailer without a safety device, punishable as a Class C misdemeanor with a fine of up to $100 or imprisonment of up to three months.

Directs the Director of the Department of Public Safety to adopt rules implementing and enforcing the requirement; exempts commercial vehicles already subject to federal coupling device regulations.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.