Ball hitch when hit from behind?

Is there a risk of running a ball hitch if you are lightly hit from behind? Could the ball hitch cause the frame to bend or any other unnecessary damage to the truck?

 

The hitch would create a lever against the frame. I'd imagine some extra damage could happen. Why not just remove hitch when not in use...

 

This is accurate.

Got rear ended while having the tow ball installed this past September (was towing a trailer the day before and planned to tow a few days later). Entire hitch structure got bent downwards. Guess who's been doing twice weekly physio/chiropractor sessions since?

 

Yep, I can easily remove. Just curious how strong the frame is and if leaving it in would cause unneeded damage.

 

Ever walked around your truck and hit your leg on it? Easiest to pull it out..

 

Yes.

 

That’s why it’s called a stinger. I always remove it so dogs or kids don’t run into it.

 

It's also illegal in many states to leave the ball hitch in when not actively towing due to the fact that you'll pretty much total the car that rear ends you.

 

In some places it’s illegal to leave a ball mount in your hitch if you’re not towing anything

 

It's a ticket in some regions I believe.

My shins love to hit them.

 

Swap it with this when not in use..



Likely an effective deterrent, reviews seem to speak for themselves and looks like they have the same idea.

 

Exactly, no law in Texas against it that I know of. Not sure why and a lot of people never remove them.

 

Wouldn't that cause the same potential frame damage to the truck during a light rear end impact?

 

Its angled like a spear point, should impale anything that hits you.

 

^^^...that. It really depends how it’s hit but I’m pretty sure this will easily penetrate most front ends pretty clean. I know it would sure make someone think twice and be more careful parallel parking near you.

 

It’s a harpoon so they can’t try to hit and run

 

Not very concerned regarding the other vehicles. More concerned with added damage to the truck frame if I got hit from behind with a beavertail attached.

 

It is not illegal to leave your ball mount in. It is illegal to block your tag and tail lights. I think the internet has confused it.

 

I use this one