I'd say that definitely is a case-by-case thing... we have the sleeping Policemen up here too, and not a problem; tho there are also some steep driveways where just the hitch bottoms out sometimes. ![Face Palm :palm:](https://www.eevblog.com/forum/Smileys/default/xfacepalm.gif.pagespeed.ic.EBDwh1hCfo.png)
It all boils down to the vehicle and the loading; my Eldos I could put 800 lbs tongue weight on the hitch and it would just pump up the airbags to compensate. I've also seen Ford escorts with a huge Jazzy scooter on the back, which is pretty much the same thing as my fanny pack, only more weight. The fanny pack itself weighs about 60lbs, with an advertised capacity of 500lbs.
I'd say in most cases, you should be able to carry as much on this thing as two adults in the back seat, no matter what. Just not necessarily both at the same time; it may require some help like air bags or HD struts. ![Confused :-//](https://www.eevblog.com/forum/Smileys/default/confused0024.gif.pagespeed.ce.5xOqKkq0Co.gif)
https://www.amazon.ca/PEAKTOW-PTL0431-Submersible-Including-Grommets/dp/B078SJXS4Q/
Lights are easy... IIRC, those metal inserts are for these oval grommet-mount tail lights, which are pretty close to plug & play. Pop in the grommets, pop 'em the grommets, then add/connect a 4-wire ribbon cable and done.
mnem
![Popcorn :popcorn:](https://www.eevblog.com/forum/Smileys/default/EatingPopcorn.jpg.pagespeed.ce.yJ6TmC5fSa.jpg)
Here in Canada, lights may be required if your cargo obscures the stock lights of the car.
For a extra long load extending over 24", you do need a red flag or other marker; your reflective tape is better than most people do.
I doubt the cops will give you any trouble. They will probably be more concerned about automated tolls that use photos of your rear license plate to send out the invoice.
By the way, here is a much better deal on lights, and supports local business:
https://www.princessauto.com/en/detail/7-in-led-universal-stop-turn-tail-cargo-carrier-lights/A-p8726911e;jsessionid=OHH+A8cgdBXRr+ZEHSA0rTf4.pal-prod-com3Those carriers do not work on all vehicles. There is no chance at all that my Impreza could handle a carrier. If I need a bit bigger, I will borrow SWMBO's SUV (grocery getter), and hope she does not damage the Impreza in the meantime. If I need something like a snowblower, then it is time to start up the truck, or add a trailer as needed (10, 20 or 29 feet long options).
I hope your carrier fits a 2" or 2.5" hitch receiver. I would never trust anything that heavy on a 1-1/4" receiver...
By the way, is all the bruising gone on your toe? If the bone has set, the bruising should be all gone by now and you should be walking, albeit with a slight bit of pain. If it is still bruised, get yourself to a doctor to get the bone properly set. How do I know? I did battle with the sheet metal side of my
new used above ground pool in a wind storm about a month ago; the wind won and my toe lost.
It is a bit uncanny how we find ourselves in similar situations.
My lawnmower is still not rebuilt; missing a 13-1/2" wheel and even the evil bay is out of stock. I tried new old stock last year, but the plastic of those wheels was so aged and brittle that the wheels are broken again...