When your car suddenly breaks down on a busy road or in the middle of nowhere, towing may be the only option to get it to safety. But here’s the shocking truth: most drivers don’t know how to tow a vehicle correctly. In fact, studies suggest that only around 2% of drivers understand the proper techniques, precautions, and safety measures needed when towing. For everyone else, attempting to tow a vehicle incorrectly can lead to accidents, costly damage, or even life-threatening situations.
So, what exactly is the right way to tow a vehicle, and why is it so important to get it right? Let’s dive deep into this essential topic.
Why Towing Is More Complicated Than It Seems
Many drivers assume towing is as simple as attaching a rope to a disabled car and pulling it along. Unfortunately, it’s not that straightforward. A vehicle weighs anywhere from 1 to 3 tons, and dragging that much weight on public roads involves physics, mechanical safety, and road laws.
Towing incorrectly can:
- Damage the towed vehicle’s transmission, axles, or suspension.
- Put dangerous strain on the towing vehicle.
- Lead to loss of control, swerving, or jackknifing.
- Cause accidents if the tow rope or chain snaps.
- Result in hefty fines if laws are broken.
This is why only trained tow truck operators or knowledgeable drivers should attempt towing
The Different Types of Vehicle Towing
Before learning how to tow properly, it’s important to understand the methods available:
- Flatbed Towing – The safest and most common professional method. The disabled car is loaded entirely onto a truck’s flatbed so no wheels touch the ground. This avoids wear, transmission damage, and stability issues.
- Two-Wheel Dolly Towing – The front wheels of the disabled vehicle are lifted onto a dolly, while the back wheels roll on the road. This method requires knowing whether the car is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive.
- Tow Bar (Flat Towing) – The disabled car is connected to the towing vehicle with a rigid tow bar, and all four wheels stay on the ground. This method is often used for small cars or RV towing but requires special preparation.
- Rope or Chain Towing – The least safe and least recommended method, but still commonly seen. A rope or chain connects the two vehicles, with the disabled car rolling freely behind. This is dangerous if not done correctly and is illegal in many areas.
Step-by-Step Guide: The Correct Way to Tow a Vehicle
If you ever need to tow a car, here’s what the 2% of knowledgeable drivers do that others don’t:
1. Check Your Owner’s Manual
Not all vehicles can be towed the same way. For example, automatic transmissions, electric cars, and all-wheel drive systems often require flatbed towing only. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before deciding how to tow.
2. Use the Right Equipment
- A tow strap or tow bar rated for the weight of the vehicle. Avoid old, frayed ropes or thin chains.
- Safety chains as backups to secure the connection.
- Tow hooks or factory-installed attachment points (never wrap around bumpers or axles).
- Tow lights or a light bar for visibility, especially at night.
3. Secure the Vehicles Properly
Attach the tow strap to the designated tow hook points on both vehicles. These are usually reinforced steel loops designed to withstand pulling force. Never attach to suspension parts, bumpers, or steering components.
4. Ensure Communication Between Drivers
If another driver is in the towed vehicle, establish hand signals or use phones/walkie-talkies. The driver being towed should keep the ignition in “on” mode (to prevent steering lock), keep both hands on the wheel, and apply gentle braking to help control tension on the strap.
5. Drive Slowly and Smoothly
The towing driver must accelerate gradually, avoid sudden braking, and take wide turns. Safe towing speeds are typically below 25–30 mph (40–50 km/h), depending on local regulations.
6. Use Hazard Lights and Warnings
Both vehicles should keep hazard lights on, or the towed car should have tow lights attached. This alerts other drivers and reduces the risk of rear-end collisions.
7. Know the Legal Rules
Some jurisdictions prohibit rope towing on highways or limit the maximum towing distance. Others require the use of a rigid tow bar or professional tow truck. Failing to comply can lead to fines or liability in case of an accident.
The Common Mistakes Most Drivers Make
Since 98% of drivers lack proper towing knowledge, mistakes are widespread. Some of the most dangerous ones include:
- Using weak ropes or chains that can snap under load.
- Attaching to the wrong part of the car, bending axles or ripping off bumpers.
- Towing too fast, making it impossible for the second car to brake in time.
- Not having a driver in the towed car, causing uncontrolled swerving.
- Forgetting about power steering and brakes – without the engine running, steering and braking are much harder.
- Ignoring vehicle type – towing an automatic incorrectly can completely destroy the transmission.
Professional Towing vs. DIY Towing
While it may be tempting to save money by towing a vehicle yourself, calling a professional tow service is almost always the safer option. Tow truck operators have specialized equipment, insurance coverage, and training to handle emergencies.
That being said, in rural areas or emergencies where professional help isn’t immediately available, knowing the basics of safe towing can make all the difference.
Extra Tips for Safe Towing
- Always keep a towing kit in your car (tow strap, gloves, flashlight, reflective triangles).
- Don’t overload the towing vehicle – check towing capacity in the owner’s manual.
- Avoid towing long distances if possible; use it only to reach a safe location.
- If on a highway, move slowly to the nearest safe exit instead of trying to tow all the way home.
- Practice towing in a safe environment (like an empty parking lot) before attempting it on real roads.
The Bottom Line
Towing a vehicle is a high-risk task that requires knowledge, preparation, and the right tools. The fact that only 2% of drivers know the correct way is alarming, but it also highlights why so many accidents and damages occur during roadside breakdowns.
Whether you’re the one towing or being towed, remember:
- Safety comes first.
- Follow your car’s manual.
- Drive slow, steady, and predictable.
- When in doubt, call a professional tow service.
By learning these essential steps, you’ll join the 2% of drivers who actually know how to tow a vehicle correctly. And who knows—one day, that knowledge could save your car, your wallet, or even your life.
