Towing a car is an important procedure that every driver should be able to perform. A breakdown on the road, engine failure or a dead battery - in such situations, you cannot do without towing. However, incorrect execution of this process can lead to fines or even accidents. In this article, we will discuss the basic rules of towing, types of towing and important nuances that will help you avoid trouble.
Basic rules of towing 🚦
Towing of cars in Ukraine is regulated by the Road Traffic Regulations (RTR). Here are the main requirements:
✅ It is prohibited to tow a car with a faulty steering system and brakes. – such cars can only be transported on a tow truck.
✅ Maximum towing speed: 50 km/h.
✅ Headlights on – during the day you can use low beam or running lights, at night – low beam is required.
✅ The towed vehicle must be in good condition., except for a breakdown that requires towing.
✅ The towed vehicle must be driven by a driver with the appropriate category of license. The exception is with a rigid coupling.
✅ Towing is prohibited on motorways.
✅ A car with a trailer cannot be towed.
✅ When towing, sudden braking and maneuvers are prohibited.
Violation of these rules may result in a fine of UAH 340 or more, depending on the situation.
Types of car towing 🔄
1. Flexible coupling (cable) ⛓️
The most common method of towing, which uses a special cable (rope, sling, chain). The length of the cable should be 4-6 meters, and red or white flags (or reflectors) should be installed on it to mark the road.
📌 Pros:
✔ Simplicity and accessibility.
✔ Can be used for most cars.
📌 Cons:
❌ Requires proper steering and braking system.
❌ The driver of the towed vehicle must be extremely careful.
2. Rigid coupling 🔧
With this method, towing is carried out using a metal structure that ensures a fixed distance between the vehicles.
📌 Pros:
✔ Reduces the risk of collision between vehicles.
✔ Suitable for cars with non-working brakes.
📌 Cons:
❌ Not suitable for all vehicles.
❌ Requires more time to prepare.
3. Partial loading 🛻
This method is used when one of the car's wheels cannot move. In this case, the front or rear part of the car is fixed on a platform or special wheel rollers.
📌 Pros:
✔ Minimum load on the towed vehicle.
✔ Suitable for cars with automatic transmission.
📌 Cons:
❌ Requires special equipment.
❌ May damage suspension if done incorrectly.
4. Full load (tow truck) 🚛
The safest method is to fully load the vehicle onto a tow truck.
📌 Pros:
✔ Suitable for all cars, regardless of the breakdown.
✔ Eliminates the risk of damage to the towed vehicle.
📌 Cons:
❌ High cost.
❌ You need to wait for a tow truck.
How to properly tow a car with an automatic transmission ⚙️
Cars with automatic transmission require a special approach when towing, as incorrect actions can lead to damage to the gearbox.
🛠️ Basic rules for towing cars with automatic transmission:
✔ It is best to use a tow truck or partial loading.
✔ If towing is unavoidable – do not exceed 30 km/h and do not pull the car more than 30 km.
✔ Shift the gear selector to neutral position (N).
✔ Watch out for overheating of the box, especially in summer.
Some vehicles with continuously variable transmissions (CVT) are generally prohibited from towing - check the manual before starting.
Towing errors and their consequences ⚠️
🚫 Using the wrong rope – a rope that is too short or not certified may break.
🚫 Jerks when starting off – a sudden movement may cause the cable to break or damage the gearbox of the towed vehicle.
🚫 High speed towing – increases the risk of collision and engine overheating.
🚫 Ignoring each other's signals – the drivers of both cars must act in sync.
🚫 Disabled hazard lights – increases the likelihood of an accident, since other road users may not notice the towed vehicle.
Conclusion 🏁
Towing a car is a responsible procedure that requires compliance with the rules and attention to detail. The correct choice of towing method, the use of serviceable equipment and compliance with speed limits will help you safely deliver your car to the desired location without fines and unpleasant situations. 🚗💨