A car breakdown on the highway is a situation that can unnerve even the most experienced drivers. In such moments, it’s often tempting to ask a friend to tow the car or try to fix it yourself. This is a serious mistake – Towing Winnipeg Near Me a traditional passenger car on the highway is strictly prohibited in Canada. Why? There are several reasons, but the most important is safety – yours and that of other road users.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly what you can and can’t do in the event of a breakdown on the highway. We’ll advise you on how to properly secure the scene, who to call for help, and the consequences of attempting to tow your car yourself. This knowledge can come in handy when you least expect it – it’s worth having at your fingertips.
The most important facts
- Traditional towing is prohibited – on the motorway, you can only tow with a specialized vehicle to the nearest exit or rest area
- The fine for illegal towing is 300$, but that’s not the only penalty – you may also be liable for any damages
- Safety first – the speed difference between the towing vehicle and other vehicles is up to 80 km/h, which poses a huge risk
- Professional help is essential – only specially marked vehicles with appropriate equipment can be legally towed on the highway
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Towing a passenger car on the highway – basic regulations
Towing on the highway is a topic that raises many doubts among drivers. According to Canadian law, traditional towing (using a regular passenger car) is prohibited on the highway. The only exceptions are vehicles specifically designed for towing, which can transport a damaged car to the nearest exit or rest area (MOP).
In practice, this means that if your car breaks down on the highway, you can’t ask a friend to tow you. You must call professional roadside assistance. This is primarily for the safety of all road users.
When can you tow on the highway?
While towing on the highway is generally prohibited, there are exceptional circumstances when it is permitted. The type of vehicle performing the towing and the purpose of the maneuver are crucial. The only legal option is to use the services of a specialized tow truck or flatbed Truck Tow Near Me, which are equipped for this type of operation.
What vehicles can be towed on the highway?
Typical features of such vehicles include yellow or amber flashing lights , special markings on the bodywork, and appropriate technical equipment for safe towing at higher speeds. Importantly, drivers of these vehicles undergo special training, further enhancing the safety of the entire maneuver.
Remember that a regular passenger car—even if it’s theoretically capable of towing another car— will never meet these requirements , and attempting to do so would be a violation of the law. In the event of a breakdown on the highway, it’s always better to call professional help than risk a dangerous situation and a fine.
Fines and consequences for illegal towing on the highway
Attempting to Tow Truck Winnipeg Company Near Me your vehicle yourself on the highway not only poses a risk of creating a dangerous situation but also carries significant legal consequences. Police and municipal police may issue a fine, and in particularly dangerous situations, the matter may even be taken to court. It’s worth knowing these regulations to avoid unpleasant surprises .
The most common consequences are, of course, fines, but that’s not all.
What are the penalties for towing on the highway?
Under Canadian law, the basic fine for illegal towing on a highway is 300$. But that’s not all – additional penalties are often imposed depending on the circumstances of the incident. Here are the most common offenses and their associated consequences:
Additional fines related to a breakdown on the highway
When a breakdown occurs on the highway, many drivers make panicked decisions that can result in further fines. The most common mistakes include:
- Stopping in a prohibited place –$300 fine
- Missing or incorrectly positioned warning triangle – up to $300
- Failure to wear a reflective vest – $100
- Attempting to repair it yourself on the emergency lane – $300
Remember, the best solution in the event of a breakdown on the highway is always to call professional help. While this may involve some costs, it will help you avoid significantly higher fines and, above all, risk to yourself and other road users.
What to do in case of a breakdown on the highway?
A breakdown on the highway is a situation that requires quick and thoughtful action. Above all, don’t panic – keep your cool and follow safety rules. The most important thing is to protect yourself and other road users. Under no circumstances should you attempt to repair your car on the spot – the highway is not a repair shop. Your priority should be to call for professional assistance and exit the vehicle safely.
Correct procedure for immobilizing a vehicle
If your car stops responding on the highway, it’s crucial to properly mark the location of the breakdown. Here’s how to proceed, step by step:
Remember that the triangle should be visible from a distance – place it perpendicular to the road. If you have passengers, they should also put on their vests and move to safety. Never remain in a disabled vehicle or attempt to repair it on the spot.
How to call for help on the highway?
Calling for help on the highway differs slightly from standard procedures. First of all, you have several options for contacting the appropriate services:
- SOS telephones – located every 2 km on both sides of the highway, marked in orange
- Emergency number 112 – inform the operator that you are on the motorway and provide your exact location
- Roadside assistance covered by insurance – if you have roadside assistance, call the number provided in your policy
When entering your location, use mileposts – they’ll show you the highway number and mile marker you’re currently on. This will significantly speed up the arrival of help. If you’re using a mobile phone, enable GPS tracking – many roadside assistance apps can then pinpoint your location.
Remember that on the highway, you can’t rely on random help from other drivers – most will simply pass by. It’s always better to trust professionals who know the specifics of operating on this type of road.
Alternatives to highway towing
When your car breaks down on the highway, traditional towing is not an option.
The most common option is to use professional roadside assistance. It’s worth noting that many insurance policies cover roadside assistance , which can prove invaluable in such a situation. If you don’t have this coverage, you can always call a commercial roadside assistance service – although this comes at an additional cost for passenger car.
Using roadside assistance and a tow truck
Professional roadside assistance is the safest way to recover from a highway breakdown. Companies providing this type of service have specialized equipment and vehicles adapted to work on expressways. Importantly, their drivers undergo special training, minimizing risk during the transport of your vehicle.
The most commonly used solutions are:
- A tow truck is the safest way to transport your car, especially when it cannot be towed.
- Specialized tugboat – equipped with appropriate safety and signaling systems
- On-site technical support – in some cases, repairs can be made without the need for transportation.
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