Towing a broken down vehicle

Can I use an A-Frame/dolly/drawbar etc. to tow a broken down vehicle?

Yes. But by law towing a broken down vehicle is the same as towing a trailer, so the following rules apply:

Carrying capacity: The weight of the broken down vehicle cannot be more than the carrying capacity of the towing device, if one is used (e.g. A-Frame, Dolly, Drawbar etc.)

Towing capacity: The weight of both the broken down vehicle and the towing device cannot be more than the manufacturer’s rated towing capacity for your vehicle.

Licence: The driver of the towing vehicle must be the holder of a BE Driving Licence and the driver steering the broken down vehicle must also hold the appropriate licence for that vehicle.

What is the definition of drawbar?

Any drawbar, chain or other towing device and includes any special fitting for the attachment of such drawbar, chain or towing device.

Can I use a rope/wire rope/chain to tow a broken down vehicle?

There is no law against towing a broken down vehicle using a rope/chain, provided it is strong enough to withstand the demands of towing a vehicle and it is only used to bring the broken down vehicle to the nearest place of safety or repair. The driver of the towing vehicle must also hold the appropriate driving licence.

What if the garage is far away?

If the broken down vehicle is blocking traffic or likely to cause an accident it should immediately be towed to the nearest place of safety/repair. Then contact a recovery operator who will use a vehicle transporter to bring the vehicle safely to the place of repair.

What is the definition of a broken down vehicle?

A vehicle which is being towed as a result of a breakdown. However it should only be towed in the event that no professional towing service is available.

Do the lights and brakes have to be working on the broken down vehicle?

Legally, no, because it’s broken down.

What if the tyre is punctured on the broken down vehicle. Can it still be towed?

Yes, but the speed must not exceed 32k.p.h. and only to the nearest convenient place of safety or repair.

Can I tow a broken down vehicle on the motorway?

We advise against this. If a vehicle breaks down on the Motorway try to move your vehicle to the hard shoulder, switch on your hazard lights and telephone a vehicle recovery operator.

Is there a speed limit for towing a broken down vehicle?

Any vehicle towing, whether it be a trailer or broken down vehicle, must not exceed 80 km/h. If a lower speed limit sign is posted this must be obeyed at all times.

Can I tow a vehicle using a spectacle frame?

Yes it is legal to tow a vehicle using a spectacle frame. The towed vehicle will be treated as a trailer. However, Regulations for lifting devices falls under the remit of the HSA and they should be contacted for more information in this regard.

This document is for general information only. It does not, and is not intended