HB 349, outlawing Carolina Squat, goes into effect

Jackson, Miss – The “Carolina squat” trend garners attention for its distinctive look for trucks. Now with HB 349 passed into law, owners of affected vehicles will receive warnings until January 27, 2025. Fines will be issued after that date.

The modification lifts the front axle of a vehicle higher than the rear axle, essentially “Creating a visibility problem”, said Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. Raising the front bumper can put it above other vehicles on the road, also creating a hazard during collisions.

HB 349, authored by State Representative Fred Shanks (R), addressed that problem.

“The reality is, it is a public safety issue and one in which those trucks, in the way that they are operating and being modified, created a dangerous condition,” Commissioner Tindell said. “And there is no manufacturer that would build a vehicle in that manner because of the safety concerns.”

He added that at times the front of those vehicles is raised so high it becomes necessary for the owner to install a front facing camera to provide better visibility while driving. 

According to the bill, owners of affected vehicles will receive warnings until January 27, 2025. After that date, tickets will be issued for violations. First offenses will entail a $100 fine, while second offenses will result in a $200 fine. Third and subsequent offenses will entail a $300 fine and result in the suspension of the driver’s license for a year.

Squatted trucks have also been outlawed in Virginia, and the home of the “Carolina Squat”, South Carolina and North Carolina. Alabama and Tennessee are also considering outlawing the modification.

The fines collected as part HB 349 will go towards funding the establishment of a mandated statewide driver’s education program.