Motor Crazy - Tracking an Obsession With Motor Vehicles

The Risks of Getting a Friend to Tow Your Broken Down Vehicle

27 June 2023

Johnny Richardson

If you're driving on the motorway when suddenly your car engine shuts down, what do you do next? Call a tow truck? Or ask a friend who has a truck to tow your car for you? While the latter may seem like a more convenient and cost-effective option, it's not always the safest choice.

Lack of Experience

Unless your friend is a professional tow truck driver, they may not have the experience necessary to safely tow your vehicle. Towing a car requires the right equipment, skills and knowledge of traffic laws. Your friend may not be aware of the regulations around towing and end up putting both of you at risk by using unsafe equipment or inadequate towing techniques.

Liability

When you ask a friend to tow your car, you're essentially putting them in charge of your vehicle. In case of an accident, your friend may be held liable for any damages, injuries or even deaths that result from the towing. This can put a strain on your friendship, not to mention the financial burden your friend may have to bear.

Lack of Insurance

Professional tow truck drivers are required to have insurance in case of accidents or damages while towing a vehicle. Your friend, on the other hand, may not have such insurance. This means that if your car sustains damages during the tow, you may not be covered for those damages.

Mechanical Damage

Towing a car incorrectly can cause significant damage to its mechanical components, such as the suspension, transmission and engine. If your friend isn't familiar with the right way to tow your vehicle, they may end up damaging it beyond repair. This can lead to expensive repairs or even total loss of the car.

Legal Issues

Towing a car without a permit or in a way that violates traffic regulations can lead to legal issues for both the driver and the owner of the vehicle. Your friend may not be aware of the rules around towing and end up putting both of you in trouble with law enforcement.

The Bottom Line

While getting a friend to tow your broken-down vehicle may seem like a good idea, the risks outweigh the benefits. From lack of experience to liability and legal issues, there are many factors to consider before asking a friend to tow your car for you. Instead, it's always best to call a professional tow truck driver who has the necessary equipment, skills and knowledge to tow your car safely and efficiently. This may cost more, but it's a small price to pay for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

For more information, contact an emergency towing company near you.

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