What is car towing?

Car towing is the process in which one vehicle (the towing vehicle) pulls or pushes another vehicle (the towed vehicle), which cannot move independently. The towing vehicle may be a specialist roadside-assistance vehicle or an ordinary vehicle equipped with the appropriate towing equipment.

The most popular methods of towing a car include:

  • using a tow rope
  • using a rigid tow bar
  • loading the towed vehicle onto a flatbed tow truck

Each of these methods has its advantages and limitations, which should be taken into account when choosing the appropriate towing technique.

When towing a vehicle, it is particularly important to have valid third-party liability insurance, because in the event of an accident or collision, the driver of the towing vehicle is liable for the damage. It is also worth considering purchasing comprehensive insurance with roadside assistance coverage, which may cover the cost of professional roadside assistance and eliminate the need to tow the vehicle yourself.

When is it necessary to tow a car?

Towing a car becomes necessary in many emergency situations. The most common cases include:

  1. engine or drivetrain failure
  2. a discharged battery
  3. damage to the suspension or steering system
  4. a flat tire when there is no spare wheel
  5. a road accident
  6. the vehicle becoming stuck in snow or mud

Remember: Some breakdowns can be repaired on site by roadside assistance, eliminating the need for towing. It is always worth consulting a professional first before deciding to tow a car.

How to prepare a car for towing?

Properly preparing a car for towing requires carefully checking several key technical components and meeting legal requirements. First, make sure that the towing vehicle is heavier than the towed vehicle and has a functioning braking and steering system. It is essential to have an approved tow rope 4–6 metres long, marked with white-and-red stripes or a yellow or red flag, as well as a warning triangle, which must be placed at the rear left side of the towed vehicle.

The dipped-beam headlights must be switched on in the towing vehicle, while the position lights must be switched on in the towed vehicle; using hazard warning lights while towing is prohibited. Before starting to tow, the rope must be properly attached to the factory-fitted towing eyes or hooks—never to suspension components or bumpers. The drivers of both vehicles should agree on a method of communication while driving and plan the route, avoiding roads with heavy traffic.

What are the rules for towing a car safely?

Safe car towing requires not only suitable equipment, but above all knowledge of and compliance with specific rules. Taking the right approach to the towing process minimises the risk of accidents and ensures the safety of all road users.

Road regulations concerning towing

According to the Polish Highway Code, the following rules must be observed when towing:

  • Towing vehicle – dipped-beam headlights switched on, even during the day
  • Towed vehicle – hazard warning lights switched on (if they do not work, place a warning panel with a reflector or red lamp at the rear)
  • Maximum permitted speed:
    • in built-up areas – 30 km/h
    • outside built-up areas – 60 km/h
  • Towing more than one vehicle is prohibited
  • Towing on motorways and expressways is prohibited (exception: removing a vehicle that has broken down on such a road)

Markings and signalling while towing

Properly marking the vehicles during towing is crucial for safety:

  • Warning triangle – place it behind the towed vehicle
  • Tow rope – mark it with reflective elements (particularly important at night or in reduced visibility)
  • Towed vehicle without functioning lights – place a warning panel with a reflector or red lamp on its rear

Maintaining the appropriate distance and speed

When towing, it is crucial to maintain an appropriate distance between the vehicles. Here are the most important rules:

  • Tow-rope length – 3 to 5 metres, ensuring a safe distance and good visibility
  • Rope that is too short – risk of collision during sudden braking
  • Rope that is too long – difficult manoeuvring

It is often safer to drive more slowly than the stated limits. The key to safe towing is smooth driving—avoid sudden acceleration, braking and sharp turns. Always be prepared for a longer braking distance and difficult manoeuvring.

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