Arkansans with squatted vehicles will need to fix them before they can go back on the road
- Arkansas law now bans squatted vehicles with bumper height differences over 4 inches.
- Offenders face fines up to $500 and possible license suspension after repeat violations.
- Law applies to all vehicles, not just pickup trucks, including cars, SUVs, and vans.
Some car mods turn heads. Others just turn stomachs, and now, in Arkansas, they might also get your license suspended. Arkansas has joined a growing list of states banning “squatted” trucks, also known as the “Carolina Squat,” in a move aimed at removing what many consider a dangerous and impractical trend from public roads.
Critics of the new law, however, argue it’s another case of government overreach by the state’s Republican leadership.
More: North Carolina Makes Carolina Squat Illegal With Fines, License Suspensions
Governor Sara Sanders signed the bill, SB411, into law on April 8. The law goes into effect immediately. Specifically, the law now prohibits any vehicle on public roads or highways if the front bumper is four inches higher than the height of the rear bumper. It includes cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans.
It also doesn’t matter how or why the bumper is higher, so long as it’s a result of modification. Those caught by police with such a vehicle on public roads face a $250 ticket for a first offense. Those caught for a second time within a 12-month period face a $500 fine. Should a person end up with three offenses in a 12-month period, they’ll lose their license for a year from the date of the last offense.
Pushback From Enthusiasts
Arkansans aren’t taking to this new law super well. In a Facebook group of Arkansas Car Spotters, one local said: “Y’all just don’t understand that this is our peace. This is what keeps our mental health stable. But nobody cares all because you don’t like the way it looks. If you’re so worried about someone else’s life, get your own and keep your nose on your own head. Still finna lean, IDC.”
More: Apparently Law Doesn’t Apply To This New York D.A. Who Blew Off Cops During Traffic Stop
Another member pointed out the concert that many shared. “Look, we all agree squatted trucks are stupid, but how long before they start coming after lifted trucks or lowered cars, modified exhaust, etc. Before you know it everything will be illegal.”
Nevertheless, it seems that for now, squatted trucks are the only type of modified car in the crosshairs of the law. hen one style gets banned, it’s not hard to imagine others ending up in the crosshairs, too.
Arkansas isn’t the first to step into this fight. States like Virginia, North Carolina, and Louisiana have already enacted similar bans, targeting the same trend for its questionable safety and, let’s be honest, complete lack of subtlety.
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