As a tow truck driver, it is important to understand the various towing laws and regulations you must abide by while on the job. Knowing these tow truck driver laws can help ensure that you stay within the bounds of DOT towing regulations and keep yourself, your vehicle, and everyone else on the road safe.
To start off, tow truck drivers are required to have a valid driver’s license and tow truck operator permit. The tow truck operator permit is issued by the state in which you are operating, so be sure to check with your local DMV for details on what it takes to obtain one. Additionally, tow trucks must be registered, inspected, and insured as required by law.
When it comes to tow truck operation, tow truck drivers must follow the same rules that all other motor vehicle operators adhere to. This includes yielding the right of way to emergency vehicles, obeying posted speed limits, and adhering to any parking or traffic regulations in place. Tow trucks must also be operated with caution when dealing with a tow load, as tow truck drivers are responsible for any damage caused to their tow load.
DOT Towing Regulations
Tow truck drivers must always ensure that the tow vehicle and tow load meet all of the necessary DOT towing regulations for safety. This includes making sure that the tow vehicle is properly secured to the tow load, that there are no hazardous materials in either the tow vehicle or tow load, and that the tow load is securely attached to the tow truck. Tow truck drivers must also make sure their tow load is visible and well-marked, in accordance with DOT towing regulations.
Tow truck drivers also need to be aware of the Move Over Law, which requires any motorist approaching an emergency vehicle or tow truck stopped on the side of the road to move one lane away from it. The purpose of the law is to ensure tow truck drivers, emergency responders and other roadside personnel are safe when working on highways or roadways.
According to the Department of Transportation (DOT) guidelines, tow truck drivers must move over one lane away from any active tow truck operations. If it is not possible to move over a lane, tow truck drivers should reduce speed and proceed cautiously. It is important for tow truck drivers to obey the Move Over Law as failure to do so can result in serious injury or even death. This move over law is in place for the safety of those assisting with a roadside emergency and tow truck drivers alike.
In addition, tow truck drivers must follow DOT towing regulations regarding proper equipment and maintenance of tow trucks. DOT towing regulations require tow trucks to have a valid tow truck license and be equipped with the proper tow truck equipment such as tow bars, winches, ratchet straps, and tow dollies. Tow trucks must also be inspected regularly to ensure they are in proper working condition. Finally, tow truck drivers must always use safety caution when operating their tow truck as tow truck accidents can be especially dangerous.
New Towing Laws: Conclusion
It is also important for tow truck drivers to check with their local county or state laws to ensure they are in compliance with any other regulations specific to the area. Knowing your duties and responsibilities as a tow truck driver is key in providing reliable services and avoiding potential legal issues down the line.
Overall, tow truck drivers must be aware of tow truck driver laws like the Move Over Law, DOT towing regulations, and local county or state laws in order to ensure their safety as well as the safety of those they are assisting. With understanding and following these tow truck driver laws comes a sense of responsibility that is otherwise not achievable.
To learn more about Move Over Law and other new towing laws, contact your local towing or DOT authority.
