Rules for towing trucks with a rigid hitch

Towing of vehicles is a very common maintenance measure. Any motorist may encounter the need for this operation as a result of an unexpected breakdown of one or another mechanism. Then all that remains is to organize the process of delivering the problematic equipment to the nearest service center or directly to the garage. At the same time, there are different means of towing vehicles, which it would be useful to have an idea about even before the critical moment.

Basic towing rules

In accordance with the instructions of the traffic rules, towing, regardless of the method of its implementation, can only be carried out if the driver is present at the wheel of a faulty technical device. The rules also limit the presence of people in the car as passengers. Obviously, the driver must be behind the wheel of the towing vehicle. But, as noted in the traffic rules, vehicles can only be towed by persons with at least two years of driving experience. This is the case when the rules impose restrictions on the right to drive based on experience.

In addition, already during the movement when using a flexible coupling, the distance between two cars should be at least 4 m, but not more than 6 m. In the case of organizing transportation with a rigid coupling, the distance can be at least 4 m - this point is also noted in Traffic rules Towing of vehicles using a flexible device must be carried out with appropriate markings. Now it’s worth taking a closer look at the two main types of towing – flexible and rigid.

When towing is not acceptable

According to traffic regulations, transporting a car using another vehicle is prohibited in the following cases:

• steering malfunction;
• towing 2 or more cars;
• icy roads;
• A motorcycle without a sidecar must not be towed using a flexible coupling device.

IMPORTANT! Violation of the rules entails a fine of 500 rubles.

The vehicle is towed in accordance with the regulations prescribed by the traffic rules. During the process, you must strictly follow all requirements and remember safety precautions. Only in this case will the probability of error be reduced to zero, as well as the risk of an emergency.

Hard towing

Cylindrical metal reinforcement is usually used as a means of adhesion. It can also be a design based on two rods that are connected by a triangle - this configuration provides higher reliability and stability of control. But this option does not apply to passenger cars, since their design does not allow the use of such a massive and heavy bundle.

As for the movement process itself, the towing speed of vehicles should be no more than 50 km/h. Moreover, this parameter does not depend on the terrain, although it is obvious that in difficult off-road conditions the mode can be much more modest. The advantages of this method include the possibility of transportation even in icy conditions, but there are also limitations. For example, cars with a faulty steering mechanism are not allowed for such towing.

How to tow a car correctly

Not all owners know how to properly tow a car with an automatic transmission. It is worth understanding that it is more preferable to transport the car in a semi-submerged state, and if it is necessary to cover long distances, in a fully submerged state. If the distance that needs to be covered is no more than 50 km, towing a car with an automatic transmission must be done at low speed, with the engine running and the gear selector set to the “N” position.

1. Flexible hitch. In order to figure out how to properly tow a car on a flexible hitch, you need to decide what the “correct” tow rope is. Each of them is designed for a certain load, which cannot be exceeded. The type of carbines also matters - it is optimal if they are forged and not stamped. Even before the start of movement, the cable for towing the car must be “marked” with flags or other “tags” with a reflective surface. There should be at least two of them. The rules for towing a car on a flexible hitch only allow a car with working brakes and steering wheel to be towed. The length of the cable for towing a car should not exceed 6 meters.
2. Rigid coupling. Here, instead of a cable, metal devices of various designs are used. It can be a simple rod with one attachment point, or it can be a triangular structure that completely secures the towed vehicle. It is worth paying attention to the fact that a rigid device for towing a car must have appropriate documents confirming its “factory origin”. The use of homemade structures is not permitted.
3. Partial loading. This method is one of the most complex, and its implementation will require special equipment. For loading, as a rule, a special crane is required; rails are less often used. For the most part, new trucks are transported this way. Passenger cars are towed this way if they are equipped with an automatic transmission. It is worth noting that this method of towing excludes the possibility of transporting passengers not only in the transported car, but also in the “tug” itself, and for its implementation a special trailer is used to tow a partially loaded car.

Towing with a flexible hitch

A cable is used to provide flexible traction. It can be made of nylon, composite fibers or metal threads. It is advisable to select the material in accordance with the weight and dimensions of the towed equipment, but at the same time take into account that a steel cable with the slightest damage can lead to serious damage in the event of a break. Nylon cables also have disadvantages - they can stretch when moving, and their fibers quickly wear out.

According to the rules, towing a disabled vehicle using a flexible link should not allow it to sag. The measure is not always feasible, but it is quite possible to avoid touching the road surface. As noted, visual identification is required when using this method of transportation. To do this, use two flags with parameters 215 x 200 mm with white and red stripes. As for the limitations of the use of flexible traction from the point of view of the nature of the equipment malfunction, towing is unacceptable in case of violations in the braking system.

Towing with flexible and rigid hitch

• a cable based on a flexible coupling must be of a strictly defined length, namely not less than 4 meters and not exceed a length of 6 meters;
• in a car that is towed, that is, one that is towed from behind, must always be controlled by the driver;
• the towing cable used must have special markings - an identification badge made of fabric or metal measuring 20 by 20 cm, made on a white background with red alternating lines, at least two pieces.

In automotive courses, in theory, they partially introduce the concept of towing on various hitches, but not many people get to try it in practice. In the traffic rules themselves, a whole chapter is devoted to the topic of mechanical towing, and during the study this concept is very often encountered. Its only meaning can mean both towing a trailer and towing a car.

Towing facilities

Typically, the process involves two components - a kind of source of traction and a means of providing it. The first can be a car, truck, tractor or other lifting equipment capable of handling increased loads. The choice of a specific product depends on the characteristics of the faulty equipment in terms of weight, as well as its dimensions. The second component has already been described in the form of metal rigid beams and flexible cables.

But other means of towing vehicles may be used to provide auxiliary functions. Depending on the towing conditions, V-slings for loading, jacks, grips, additional braking systems, lights to illuminate the road in case of malfunction of standard optics, etc. can be used.

What should it be

What is necessary for successful and authorized transportation of a vehicle by towing:

When transporting a passenger car, a flexible hitch option is suitable. But to transport a truck or passenger vehicle, a rigid hitch is required.

With the latter type of towing, the trajectory of the second vehicle will not deviate. Thus, during travel there will be no unnecessary interference for other participants.

Rope length

The cable should not be shorter than 4 meters and longer than 5 meters. It should be taken into account that the longer the flexible clutch equipment is, the greater the risk of deviation of the trajectory when moving.

If the cable is shorter than the specified norm, then there is a high risk of a collision between the driven vehicle and the vehicle pulling it.

The color of the cable does not matter. The accumulation of steel fibers is impregnated with reflective compounds.

In the case of using a red and white cable with a “reflector” effect, it is allowed not to attach striped signs. Such cables themselves signal and serve as a means of issuing warning signals.

Most often you can find products made from threads of the following shades and their combinations:

Speed ​​also plays a role in the presence of a particular length of cable. Even driving slowly by the lead driver will not allow the trailing motorist to drive perfectly smoothly.

This is why it is required that the second (transported) car be driven by a person who is always ready to correct the motion vector in a timely manner.

Travel speed

The main postulate of the Rules regarding the speed limit applies to almost all types of vehicles and in all cases of towing. One rule applies to everyone.

Permitted speeds when towing another vehicle:

If a car has an automatic transmission and is subject to forced removal from its location on the roadway, then it must be driven exclusively at a speed of 30 km/h - no more.

The only thing is that if the number of gears is more than 3 stages, it is allowed to transport the vehicle at an increased speed, but not more than 50 km/h.

Features of towing heavy special equipment

The means described above are basically useless when it comes to transporting large, powerful vehicles with large tonnage. In this case, heavy-duty trailers, wheeled or tracked tractors, and sometimes tractor equipment will be connected.

In terms of auxiliary devices, hydraulic lifts and hydraulic jacks can be noted. The fact is that the means of towing vehicles in the case of heavy vehicles are largely oriented towards lifting operations, therefore the corresponding power mechanisms are used.

Flexible and rigid hitch - what's the difference?

Unlike the cable, which every motorist has in their kit, a rigid coupling is a rare attribute. It is most often used by tow trucks. But towing with a rigid hitch requires the same additional equipment: a warning triangle, a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher. In this case, the cable may sag until the road surface is covered. The coupling device itself can have different designs. For example, the simplest ones involve one attachment point to each of the machines. Basically, a rigid coupling for passenger cars has this design. More complex hitches have several points and allow the vehicle to be towed exactly along the same track as the tractor, without the slightest shift to the sides. Each type of device has different towing rules. Towing on a rigid device allows you to move heavy vehicles.

Today, a huge variety of different rigid couplings are offered for sale. Before purchasing, you first need to make sure that the device matches the tonnage of your car. Next, the design you need is determined - simple or complex. This will determine whether you call a tow truck in difficult cases or use the services of passing motorists. You also need to consider whether the device fits in the trunk of your car and how much space it takes up. Today, there are telescopic models that, when folded, have minimal dimensions. There is no need to talk about the cost - your wallet “decides” that. You can also make your own device. A rigid hitch, made by yourself, in some cases may be the only option for such mechanisms for transportation in the trunk of your car.

Features of towing cars with automatic transmission

In preparation for moving models with automatic transmission, you should carefully check the condition of the mechanisms, as well as the oil level. Then, when you turn the ignition key, the steering stem is released from the lock, and the handle is placed in the neutral position. After this, towing of motor vehicles with automatic transmission is carried out with short stops to cool the transmission. It is recommended to travel no more than 50 km at a time.

In any case, even if you follow the rules for transporting cars with automatic transmissions, the transmission will be damaged. Therefore, if possible, it is advisable to carry out partial or full loading using a tow truck. For example, towing motor vehicles with all-wheel drive and automatic transmission is not practiced at all. If the choice fell on this method, then the best option for moving would be to organize rigid traction.

What are the requirements for drivers?

Requirements that are mandatory for all drivers driving a tugboat:

• The minimum permissible driving experience for a person driving a towing vehicle is 2 years. A similar requirement is not imposed on the driver of a towed vehicle;
• There are also no additional requirements for the driver’s license category;
• The towing vehicle must have low beams on, regardless of the time of day and weather conditions;
• the towed vehicle must have its hazard warning lights turned on or a warning triangle placed on the body;
• The maximum permissible speed is 50 km/h. This requirement remains unchanged both for populated areas and for suburban roads.

By distance

A rigid hitch is used when there are serious problems with the vehicle, for example, failure of the brake system. In this case, reliable fixation will ensure safe movement.

It is important that in addition to the weight of the tug (at least twice the weight of the second car), another rule is observed - the distance. Its minimum limit is not specified in the traffic rules, but there is a requirement for the maximum - no more than 4 meters.

The remaining rules are completely identical to towing with a cable. That is, it is prohibited to transport a car with faulty steering and passengers are allowed in the cabin.

By cable length

The cable for flexible coupling also cannot be of any length. This indicator is limited by traffic regulations. Its minimum length is 4 meters, and its maximum is no more than 6 meters.

Possible towing of vehicles with automatic transmission

To ensure that the automatic transmission does not fail, and the towed vehicle itself does not cause an emergency, you must adhere to the following recommendations:

1. Always place the automatic transmission lever in the “N” or “2” position.
2. Do not transport a car with an automatic transmission on a flexible or rigid hitch for a distance of more than 50 km. In this case, it is better to use the services of a tow truck.
3. The speed of vehicles should not exceed 40 km/h.
4. The steering wheel of the second car must be unlocked. To do this, you will need to turn on the ignition or, on some models, insert the card into the receiving device.
5. Before starting to drive, check that the car's handbrake is released.
6. Check and, if necessary, add transmission fluid to the maximum possible level.
7. Study the owner's manual for the car. It will indicate how it is possible to tow: with the engine running or not running.

Winter in most regions means difficult weather conditions, ice and a lot of snow on the roads. This makes adjustments to the rules for towing vehicles with an automatic transmission:

• It is prohibited to use a cable, only a rigid coupling or full loading;
• before starting to drive, it is necessary to change the position of the automatic transmission lever several times in order to warm up the oil that has frozen in the cold;
• Throughout the entire journey, it is prohibited to exceed the speed of 30 km/h.

A breakdown of the automatic transmission or brake system further complicates the transportation process. When performing this operation, the following conditions must be met:

1. The drive wheels are raised. That is, only towing by partial loading is available.
2. A car whose vehicle weight according to the title is twice that of the faulty vehicle can act as a tugboat.
3. The maximum permissible speed is no more than 40 km/h.
4. The use of a flexible cable is completely excluded.

An exception to the above rules is towing a vehicle with four-wheel drive and an automatic transmission. In this case, only full loading or calling a tow truck is available. The use of a cable or rigid hitch is prohibited.

How to tow a car with an automatic transmission if its engine is faulty - it’s better to give up this idea and call a tow truck. If this option is not possible, you can resort to extreme measures:

• transport the car to a minimum distance, that is, to the nearest service station;
• Please note that when the engine is turned off, the power steering and brakes do not operate. This means that you will have to turn the steering wheel and press the pedal more actively and with much greater effort;
• Be sure to turn on the hazard lights or place a warning triangle on the car body.

Full or partial loading

This method of transportation can only partially be put on a par with traditional towing, but, as already noted, it is often used as an alternative. Typically, “problem” equipment (heavy loads, large vehicles, etc.) is moved in this way, the difficulty of towing which is determined by the requirement of large power resources. In this case, such means of towing vehicles as a tow truck, a loading platform and lifting equipment are used.

After loading the machine onto the platform, special fixing means are also used. As for the differences in full and partial loading, in the first case the equipment is completely located on the platform and secured there, and in the second case, the rear wheels can move on the road surface, that is, only the front part is fixed.

Rules for towing a car

When towing using the partial loading method, the front axle of the towed vehicle is installed in the body of the towing vehicle. Another method is when the front axle is raised above the road and secured in a special device rigidly mounted on the towing vehicle. In these cases, transporting people in a towed vehicle or even in the back of a towing vehicle is prohibited.

The traffic rules state that the length of the tow rope must be from 4 to 7 meters . A longer cable is a real trap for inattentive drivers. As practice shows, another car can get wedged between a faulty car and a tractor. This leads to very serious accidents.

In what cases is towing prohibited?

It is impossible to use more than one serviced vehicle in one towing package. This configuration makes handling more difficult, not to mention increasing the traction load. In some cases, depending on conditions, there may be restrictions on towing in bad weather or in the presence of certain faults.

Failures in the brake system and steering column, as already mentioned, force one to turn to an alternative method of towing, or even load on a platform. Also, towing vehicles is prohibited if we are talking about motorcycles without a trailer.

General rules for towing vehicles

General recommendations that apply to all types of vehicles:

1. The towing driver should move off smoothly, without jerking. Impulsive movements will cause the cable to break or damage parts of another vehicle.
2. Braking is smooth and early. An important nuance is that when the engine is turned off, the power brake pedal reacts more sharply to pressure.
3. Sudden maneuvers and lane changes are unacceptable.
4. The towing driver should always remember that there is another car behind him and take into account its dimensions when performing maneuvers. The total length of the convoy in this case is almost three times the usual dimensions.
5. The towed driver must fully concentrate on the car ahead. It is necessary to achieve strict adherence to its trajectory.
6. The type of towing is determined by the type of fault. For example, if the steering wheel breaks down, only partial loading is used, and if the brakes fail completely, a rigid coupling is used.
7. With flexible coupling, flags measuring 20x20 cm, painted with red or white reflective paint, are placed on the cable at intervals of 1 meter.
8. Before starting towing, drivers must necessarily agree on the conditional signals to be given to each other.

Passenger car

Towing is carried out both on a flexible and rigid hitch. In the latter case, a metal frame made in the shape of a triangle is used. One of its corners is attached to the towing vehicle, and the other two are attached to the faulty vehicle. There are no special requirements for moving a passenger car.

Freight transport

The possibility of towing a cargo vehicle and the type of hitch for it is determined by the breakdown and accompanying weather conditions:

• with a working brake system and steering, any type of towing is allowed in the summer;
• in winter, only rigid coupling or partial loading is used;
• for any type of loading, except partial loading, the presence of passengers in the cabin is allowed;
• during partial loading there should be no one in the cabin. Even the driver;
• if the brake system breaks down, a rigid coupling is used provided that the towing vehicle’s weight is twice that of the towed vehicle;
• A similar weight requirement is imposed when transporting by partial loading. This is the only way to achieve maximum controllability and safety.

Towing Rules

To avoid various unpleasant situations, drivers when towing with a flexible hitch must follow the following rules:

• You cannot tow a car in icy conditions;
• the brake system must be in good condition;
• The cable must have reflectors with red and white stripes.

When towing with a rigid hitch, you must adhere to the following rules:

• when transporting a car with a non-working brake system, its weight should be 2 times less than that of a tug;
• It is also not allowed to tow a vehicle with inoperative steering.

At what speed is towing allowed?

The maximum speed when towing a car is 50 kilometers per hour. You need to know that this restriction applies not only in the city, but also outside it. In winter, when driving in the city, it is better to reduce the speed to 30 kilometers per hour.

But remember that at the same time, the speed of movement should be at the permitted level, and not too slow, as this will cause discomfort to other traffic participants.

Towing is also permitted on the motorway. In this case, your speed must be more than 40 kilometers per hour, otherwise it will be considered a violation.

Light signals

The car in front must have low beam headlights on, and the car behind must have hazard lights on. Not many people comply with this requirement, but you need to understand that, especially at night, it will be difficult for you to understand without lights that the car is being towed.

A few words in conclusion

The permitted speed is up to 50 km/h, and on the highway - at least 40 km/h.

Light symbols. Who should have the hazard lights on?

In case of a towed vehicle's malfunction, a warning triangle must be attached to the rear of the vehicle.

The “lead” and “follower” vehicles must have either low-beam headlights, fog lights, or daytime running lights on.

Regardless of whether you need a tow vehicle or want to help a motorist in trouble, always follow the rules of the road and do not ignore the prohibitions. Good luck on the roads!