Towing and the law

agw_01 · 21 Jul 2009 at 11:21

Hi guys,

Just a quick question...

I might need to tow a car with a tow rope. It's a non-runner. I've had my licence since 2004 but don't have a clue on what I'm legally allowed to tow.

Looking on the internet didn't really come up with anything of any use so what I'm looking for is a simple answer.

Will I legally be allowed to tow a car weighing around 1100kg with a tow rope, with the towing car weighing a similar amount.

Thanks.

paradigm · 21 Jul 2009 at 11:24

I thought you had to use a solid bar these days?

Berger · 21 Jul 2009 at 11:27

Its taxed and tested but will require insurance wont it?

Since your not going far, I would stick on tow or remove the plate from the towed car and chance it.

Its a good buy that is, stick a new belt on and see if it runs, if not take the wheels and exhaust off and you have more than your money back!

agw_01 · 21 Jul 2009 at 12:16

Karl, my housemate has DOC so the driver will be covered so I'm hoping that's enough. Can't see why not.

Yeah, I was going to put a belt on it and see what happens. Hopefully it should be ok. I'll have a look at the rusty patches and see how bad they are. If it's only surface rust I'll keep it. If they require some work I'll keep it until the MOT is up and then strip it if it doesn't pass.

Can anyone else clarify whether a tow rope will be ok? It's only a few miles away.

John_V85 · 21 Jul 2009 at 12:23

Re DOC cover, I may be wrong, but isn't it often a stipulation that in order for it to apply the car actually has to be insured, i.e. one can't drive an otherwise uninsured car relying on DOC cover?

agw_01 · 21 Jul 2009 at 12:25

I think it depends entirely on that particular policy

It's been covered on here a few times.

OllyM · 21 Jul 2009 at 12:26

John_V85 said:
Re DOC cover, I may be wrong, but isn't it often a stipulation that in order for it to apply the car actually has to be insured, i.e. one can't drive an otherwise uninsured car relying on DOC cover?

Depends on your insurer, Bell don't state this anywhere (for example).

Von Smallhausen · 21 Jul 2009 at 12:28

Towing with a rope is not illegal but the length must not exceed 4.5m.

A tow bar is always the better option though.

Also, you cannot tow a vehcile other than what your licence allows and the car must be road legal as in tax, insurance, MOT etc.