If you operate a commercial vehicle, you know that mud flaps are more than an accessory. They’re a big part of staying road-ready, protecting other drivers, and reducing the risk of citations and downtime. If your next drive takes you through the Empire State, ensure your mud flaps meet New York state standards and requirements before you head out.
According to subdivision 25 of section 375 of the New York State Senate Vehicle and Traffic (VAT) law, it is:
- Unlawful to operate on any public highway or street in this state any tractor, commercial motor vehicle, combination of a commercial motor vehicle and trailer, or combination of a truck-tractor and semi-trailer which is not so constructed or equipped as reasonably to bar water or other road surface substances from being thrown by the rearmost wheels beyond the extreme rear of the vehicle or combination of vehicles, and to minimize side spray.
Unless the fender or body construction accomplishes the above rules, any commercial or combination vehicle must be equipped with:
- Splash guards and stone deflectors which shall be composed of materials substantial enough to withstand ripping or tearing by ordinary means and withstand the action of the elements for a reasonable length of time. Such splash guards and stone deflectors shall also have a reasonable degree of flexibility and the distance from the lower end thereof to the ground shall not exceed one-third of the distance, measured along the ground, from the bottom of the splash guard to the point of contact of the rear wheel.
Additional design, dimension, and installation parameters are provided in Title 15, Part 47 of the New York Codes, Rules and Regulations (NYCRR). 15 CRR-NY 47.4 specifies that:
(b) Any material used in a splash guard shall be of a substantial nature. If metal is used in such construction the splash guard must either be positioned in such a manner as to direct solids toward the ground or should be coated with a soft substance so as to prevent solid material from being deflected to the side of the vehicle.
(d) If the splash guard is constructed of a flexible material it must, nevertheless, have a fair degree of rigidity. Every splash guard shall be constructed of a material of sufficient rigidity that it will retain its protective position at normal vehicle speed.
15 CRR-NY 47.5 adds that “the width of a splash guard shall not be less than the outside width of the tire or combination of tires, but should not extend beyond the side of the vehicle.”
Construction and Materials
Whether you’re inspecting current mud flaps or selecting replacements, keep these requirements in mind to help ensure your vehicle complies with New York standards.
- Proper coverage: Choose flaps sized to cover the tire area and control spray from the rearmost wheels.
- Durable material: Heavy-duty rubber, polymer, or reinforced composite options are often better suited for commercial use than thin universal flaps.
- Strong rigidity: A flap that folds backward at road speed due to initial design or deterioration may not provide effective protection.
- Secure mounting hardware: Brackets, hangers, and fasteners should hold the flap firmly in place and reduce wear around attachment points.
- Application fit: Match the flap type to your vehicle, tire size, axle position, and body configuration.
Choose Durable, High-Quality Mud Flaps
For New York operators, the right mud flap is all about controlling spray, deflecting stones, protecting other motorists, and supporting compliance. When shopping for new splash guards and mud flaps, focus on the correct fit, durable construction, and proper placement.
Briargate Supply offers mud flaps in standard sizes like 24”x24” and 24×30”, plus custom sizes to meet any application and need. Our custom rubber mud flaps and durable poly options are available in multiple thicknesses. This gives your commercial vehicle the flexibility and durability it needs. Branded options offer another form of customization, bringing your business brand identity on the road.
If you are unsure which splash guard style is right for your truck, trailer, or fleet, contact us today to speak to a product specialist. We’ll make sure your vehicle will be equipped to meet New York State’s requirements for countless trips to come.