Squatted Trucks Are Now Prohibited in Arkansas, and Pickup Enthusiasts Are Unhappy About It | Carscoops

      Arkansans who own squatted vehicles must rectify the modifications before being allowed back on the roads.

      Arkansas legislation now prohibits squatted vehicles that exceed a bumper height difference of four inches.

      Violators could incur fines of up to $500 and might face license suspension after multiple infractions.

      This law applies to all types of vehicles, not solely pickup trucks, encompassing cars, SUVs, and vans.

      Certain car modifications attract attention for different reasons, and now, in Arkansas, they could also lead to license revocation. Arkansas has become part of a growing number of states outlawing “squatted” trucks, often referred to as the “Carolina Squat,” aiming to eliminate what many perceive as a hazardous and impractical trend from public roads.

      However, critics of the legislation contend that it represents an instance of governmental overreach by the state's Republican leadership.

      Governor Sara Sanders enacted bill SB411 on April 8, with the law taking effect immediately. It specifically forbids any vehicle on public streets or highways if the front bumper is more than four inches higher than the rear bumper’s height. This regulation encompasses cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans.

      Furthermore, the reason for the higher bumper does not matter, as long as it is due to modifications. Individuals caught driving such a vehicle can receive a $250 fine for a first offense. If caught again within a 12-month timeframe, the fine increases to $500. Three offenses in a year can result in a one-year license suspension from the date of the most recent violation.

      Resistance from Enthusiasts

      The new law has not been well received by Arkansans. In a Facebook group for Arkansas Car Spotters, one member remarked: “You all just don’t grasp that this is our peace. It keeps our mental health in check. But nobody cares just because you dislike the look. If you’re worried about someone else’s life, focus on your own. I’ll still lean, I don’t care."

      Another member expressed a common concern: “We all agree squatted trucks are ridiculous, but how long until they target lifted trucks or lowered cars, modified exhausts, etc.? Soon, everything might be illegal.”

      Nevertheless, at this moment, squatted trucks are the sole type of modified vehicle facing scrutiny under the law. Once one style is outlawed, it’s easy to envision others becoming targets as well.

      Arkansas is not the first state to engage in this dispute; states such as Virginia, North Carolina, and Louisiana have already implemented similar bans, addressing the same trend due to its questionable safety and, frankly, its complete lack of subtlety.