'Carolina Squat' banned immediately in Virginia
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Image courtesy of The Governor of Virginia's Office

In a move that will likely generate some interest in Appomattox County, Gov. Glenn Youngkin today in Lynchburg signed into a law a bill that bans the popular "Carolina Squat" modification of vehicles on public highways in the state of Virginia.

The "Carolina Squat" significantly elevates the front end of a vehicle while lowering the back end, and is most often seen on pickup trucks.

North Carolina banned the practice in 2021.

The bill, SB 777, was introduced March 1 to the Virginia Senate by State Senator Mark Peake (R-Lynchburg), who represents the 22nd District, which includes Appomattox County.

Addressing the height limits of front and rear bumpers, the bill states that the front bumper may not be raised more than four inches higher than the rear bumper. The law comes into effect immediately, as the bill contains an emergency clause.

Violation of this law, which also applies to cars and panel trucks, would result in a traffic violation and possible towing.

According to reports, the issue came to the forefront following the death of a Mecklenburg County man who was killed by a "squatter" truck in a motor vehicle accident on Feb. 16.

The law does not apply to vehicles in special off-road events such as racing competitions.

The bill's text passed by the General Assembly can be accessed here.

Find out more in the upcoming issue of the Times Virginian newspaper. Pick up a copy or subscribe at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to view the full article in the e-edition version.