Virginia State Inspection Practice Test

If a trailer is missing or has inoperative breakaway devices, what must also be intact to avoid rejection?

1. The trailer hitch

2. The breakaway cable

3. The brake lights

4. The turn signals

The correct answer is: The breakaway cable

A trailer's breakaway device is designed to activate the trailer's brakes in the event that the trailer becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle. If the breakaway device is missing or inoperative, the safety of the trailer during transit is compromised, and the vehicle would be deemed unsafe for the road, leading to rejection during the inspection. For the trailer to be compliant with safety regulations in this situation, the breakaway cable must be intact. The breakaway cable is a crucial component; it connects to the towing vehicle and ensures that if the trailer separates, the brakes will engage, helping to prevent an uncontrolled trailer from causing accidents. Therefore, if the breakaway devices are not functional, maintaining an intact breakaway cable is essential to provide any semblance of safety, thereby preventing rejection during the inspection process. This highlights the importance of having all components of the breakaway system operational for both safety and regulatory compliance. Other components, like the trailer hitch, brake lights, and turn signals, while important for overall safety and functionality of the trailer, do not specifically serve the same protective function as the breakaway system.