Have you seen this notice on your travels?

There has been a lot of speculation recently on social media about on the spot fines for "D" shackles for trailers and caravans and you may have even seen the above notice around the place. Well it seems the rumour is more than likely a hoax.

According to the NRMA, the Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA) have been making enquiries and it seems that police and state enforcement bodies such as Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) deny executing any ticketing campaigns and confirm there is no specific requirement for D-shackles. There is no known legislation nationwide that says otherwise so police cannot fine motorists for having unrated shackles. Read more here

In fact the only specific regulations relating to safety chains, according to information on the RMS site, are that safety chains must comply with Australian Standards, that trailers less than 2500 kg (loaded) must have a minimum of one safety chain whilst trailers over 2500 kg (loaded) must have a minimum of two safety chains fitted.

Whether the rumour began as a prank or it was an attempt to get people to buy a specific product one simple fact remains true. Consider the price difference between a rated shackle and a non rated one, then think of how much your caravan or trailer (and the vehicle you tow them with) are worth and decide whether the few dollars you might save would be worth it.