Cars are essential because they improve mobility. However, they have a tendency to break down when you least expect them to. Here are some tips for those who want to tow their car themselves.

Towing a car – is it allowed?

It’s not always possible to repair your car at the scene of the breakdown. You’ll need towing, which can be provided by FutureTowing company.

Towing passenger cars complies with applicable laws. However, every driver must be aware that the towing process itself is strictly regulated. Violating these regulations may result in a fine and penalty points being imposed on the driver. Cars with damaged steering systems cannot be towed. They must be transported on a flatbed trailer.

What regulations should you remember?

To familiarise yourself with the regulations regarding towing, I recommend referring to Article 31 (Chapter 3) of the Highway Code. According to the information contained therein, towing a car:

• functional steering and braking system in a broken vehicle;
• A so-called rigid connection should be used, which will prevent the vehicles from becoming detached during towing.
• When towing a motorcycle, it is allowed to use a so-called flexible connection; if necessary, both motor vehicles can be quickly disconnected from each other.
• A broken-down car must be driven by a person with a valid driving license.

If the towed vehicle does not require driving, a person with a driving license does not need to be in the damaged car.

Towing a car – what not to do?

Remember that certain activities should also be avoided while towing your car. Even if you take care of the above-mentioned items, one mistake could result in the police stopping you for a check. If you break the law, it will be difficult to avoid a fine. What should you avoid? Remember to:

• Do not tow a car with its hazard lights on! This can only mislead other drivers on the road. Only tow a car with its low beams on;
• Don’t exceed the speed limit! Even such recklessness can result in penalty points. In built-up areas, always keep to 30 km/h; outside built-up areas, you can drive at a maximum speed of 60 km/h.
• You should never tow a car on the highway! In such situations, your only option is to use roadside assistance in Winnipeg.
• We cannot decide to provide support to vehicles that have a trailer.

Only one vehicle can be towed. This number cannot be exceeded. If there is more than one vehicle, emergency services will need to be called.

Safe car towing

Some drivers choose to tow a second vehicle themselves. This is permitted. However, remember that safety is paramount. After all, you won’t be the only people on the road.

Make sure the towing person is someone with experience behind the wheel. It’s worth calling people you know who might have experience with towing. First, consider those who have previously towed a car. If such people aren’t among your friends, choose those who have simply held a driving license for many years.

Alternatively, if the person with the damaged car has more experience in this matter, you can always consider swapping seats. After all, it’s not always the owner who has to be behind the wheel of a damaged car.

Remember to establish a communication method before setting off. This could be a hands-free system on your phone or an earpiece. You could also opt for an audible or visual signal that only the towing party and the towed party can understand.

BASIC RULE WHEN TOWING!

The towing party always accelerates, and the towed party always brakes. Why is this so important? Because this is the only way to maintain the proper tension between the lines. The towing party applies the brakes lightly if necessary. The driver of the damaged vehicle must apply the brakes firmly.

Rules to follow when towing

Remember to always use the right lane when towing. The left lane is for overtaking. Trying to overtake with a car behind you can create dangerous situations.
Slow down before crossing a pedestrian crossing, even if there’s no one nearby. It’s better to stop so that no pedestrians get between the towing vehicle and the vehicle being towed.
Use familiar routes. Ideally, these should be off the beaten track. Avoid pressing onto main roads whenever possible, as this increases the risk of collisions with other vehicles.

Towing a car on a rope

A car should always be towed using a tow rope. This ensures a stable connection. The vast majority of us have a tow rope in the trunk. However, it’s important to ask yourself if it’s suitable. Avoid towing with a kinetic tow rope. Experts warn that it can impair vehicle handling.

It’s best to choose flexible, kinetic, steel, webbing, or braided ropes, which should have a towing capacity appropriate for the vehicle’s weight. For rigid connections, the rope should provide a towing length of 3 meters. Flexible connections can be 4 to 6 meters long. The towing rope should be marked with red and white stripes, which also complies with applicable Highway Code regulations. If such a rope is not available, you can decide to attach red or yellow flags to it.

Summary

Towing a car, contrary to appearances, isn’t as easy as it seems. Especially since so many details must be taken care of. We invite you to use our WinnipegTowingservice, which will quickly tow your car away, leaving you worry-free.