Are only tow trucks allowed to tow other vehicles?

Whenever thinking about a vehicle towing, the image of a tow truck comes to mind. But can only tow trucks tow a vehicle? Let's demystify and analyze what types of vehicles are capable of towing vehicles or motorcycles, and what the correct way to do so is according to current regulations.

Despite what one might think, there are indeed a series of restrictions that are important to know to avoid unnecessary fines and penalties. Even if the reason is valid, one must know how to proceed in each case, especially for accidental situations or breakdowns on the road. We delve into this topic so you know exactly how to proceed in each particular case.

When you cannot tow a private vehicle on the road

Despite the urgency of certain situations, especially in accidental circumstances, there may be a need to tow a vehicle. However, it must be clear that there are certain limitations regarding this. This involves appropriate behavior to avoid engaging in sanctionable actions.

It is advisable to know the law and the rules of the Traffic Code in certain aspects, as even when thinking you are performing a good deed, it may conflict with what is legal or not.

In these cases, and according to Article 130 of the Traffic Code, it is only established that, exceptionally, and always prioritizing safety on public roads, the towing of vehicles to a nearby location is allowed so that it does not obstruct traffic.

If towing a vehicle to a workshop or a remote area, one will be committing an offense that will be penalized with a fine according to the regulations.

When you can tow a private vehicle on the road

As mentioned earlier, a private vehicle may only tow another if it is affecting the safety of the roadway. This action should only be used to remove the damaged or broken-down vehicle from the public road to the nearest area that allows free circulation.

Therefore, only a tow truck will be responsible for carrying out such towing on a highway.

Converting the car into a towing vehicle

Another case to analyze is when a vehicle is prepared to carry a trailer. This applies when transporting other vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles, or quads, among others. For this, we refer to other articles on this blog to learn how to add a trailer to a vehicle and what types of trailers can be used with a Class B license and similar.

Since each type of license requires regulations that enable the vehicle to use light trailers (less than 750 kg of MAM) or heavy trailers, all subject to a series of mandatory compliance parameters. Likewise, it is necessary to adhere to the speed limits established for using vehicle combinations with trailers.