The exact length of the flexible coupling, regulated by clause 20.4 of the Russian Traffic Regulations, is strictly fixed and should be from 4 to 6 meters. Violation of this range when towing motor vehicles with a rigid or flexible hitch entails a high risk of accidents, since too short a length does not leave time for the driver of the towed vehicle to react when braking the vehicle in front, and an excessive length provokes folding of the vehicle and uncontrolled jerking. Compliance with this parameter is a critical condition for the legal and safe movement of disabled equipment on public roads.
The main rule: the length of the flexible hitch must be strictly in the range of 4–6 meters, which ensures a safe distance and visibility for both drivers.
The driver of the towed vehicle is obliged to maintain a distance that allows him to avoid hitting the cable, but at the same time does not allow the train to “fold” when turning. If the cable sags below 0.4 meters from the road surface, it must be equipped with additional signaling elements, but the optimal solution is to use a tensioning device or select the correct length for a specific pair of cars.
Traffic regulations requirements for the length and condition of the cable
The legislation clearly defines the technical parameters of equipment used for towing. Flexible hitch must be factory-made, have sufficient tensile strength and have no visible damage such as abrasions, tears or deformation of the hooks. The use of homemade ropes, chains or ropes is strictly prohibited, as they do not guarantee safety and may not withstand the dynamic load of a jerk.
The key aspect is not only the physical length, but also the way it is attached. The ends of the cable must be securely fixed in the standard towing eyes of both vehicles. If the design of the machine does not provide for such eyes or they are damaged, the use of a flexible hitch is unacceptable - in this case, a tow truck or a rigid hitch is required.
⚠️ Warning: Using a damaged cable or insecurely fastening the hooks can cause the hitch to shoot out at high speed, creating a mortal danger for surrounding road users.
Designation rules and light signals
The safety of the process depends on how well the towed vehicle is visible to other road users. According to Traffic rules, at least two red signal boards (flags) measuring 200x200 mm with diagonal white stripes must be installed on the flexible coupling. These elements are attached in the middle of the cable or at an equal distance to indicate its trajectory.
In addition, the towed vehicle must have its hazard warning lights turned on during daylight hours. In the dark or in conditions of insufficient visibility, the side lights are additionally turned on. If the electrical equipment is faulty and the hazard lights do not work, towing with a gooseneck is prohibited as the drivers behind will not be able to see the maneuvers.
- 🚩 Installing the flags is mandatory if the cable is not tensioned and may sag.
- 💡 The hazard warning lights should be constantly on while driving.
- 🚗 Side lights are required at night, in rain and fog.
- 🔧 Faulty turn signals or brake lights require the use of a rigid hitch or tow truck.
Speed limits and traffic features
The maximum permitted speed when towing motor vehicles with a flexible hitch is limited to 50 km/h. Exceeding this limit significantly increases the inertia of the train, making synchronous braking impossible and increasing the likelihood of cable breakage. In city conditions where frequent maneuvering is required, it is recommended to move at the speed of the flow, but not exceeding the established threshold.
Move smoothly, without sudden acceleration or braking. Any sudden action of the leading car is transmitted by a jerk to the driven one, which can lead to transmission breakdown or breakage of the coupling.
Reversing using a flexible hitch is prohibited due to the high probability of the train collapsing and loss of control. You should also avoid sharp turns and climbing steep slopes, as the engine in the rear vehicle may stall, which will lead to the steering and braking system locking (if the power steering pump or vacuum pump are not working).
Table: Comparison of flexible and rigid coupling
The choice of towing type depends on the condition of the brake system and steering of the damaged vehicle. Below are the main differences and requirements.
| Parameter | Flexible hitch | Rigid coupling |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4–6 meters | No more than 4 meters |
| Brake system | Must be in good working order | May be faulty (at weight < 1/3 of towing vehicle) |
| Steering | Should be fine | Should be fine |
| Speed (max) | 50 km/h | 50 km/h |
Preparing the vehicle for towing
Both vehicles must be thoroughly inspected before driving. The driver of the towed vehicle must ensure that the transmission is in neutral (N), and the parking brake is fully released. For cars with automatic transmission, the procedure may differ: some models require partial removal of the driveshaft or the use of a special towing mode, as indicated in the instructions owner's manual.
☑️ Check before start
It is important to agree on the agreed signals with the towing driver, since telephone communication may be interrupted, and it is not always clearly visible through the glass. Discuss signals for stopping, turning, and emergency actions in advance. Typically, light signals (blinking high beams) or predetermined gestures are used.
Typical mistakes and risks when towing
One of the most common mistakes is an attempt to start the engine of a towed car “from a pusher” while already driving on the road. This action often results in a sharp jerk when the driver throws the cable or pulls the gearshift lever, which causes the train to fold. The engine should be started before driving or while stopping on the side of the road.
⚠️ Warning: Never turn off the engine of a towed vehicle while driving unless planned to do so. Stopping the engine will disable the power steering and brake booster, making the car virtually uncontrollable.
Another critical mistake is towing a vehicle with a gross weight that exceeds the weight of the towing vehicle. According to the rules, the weight of the towed vehicle should not exceed the weight of the towing one. Ignoring this rule in combination with a flexible hitch will almost guarantee that the lead vehicle will skid and lose control of the situation on a wet or slippery road.
Nuances for automatic transmission
Automatic transmissions are extremely sensitive to towing. When the engine is not running, the rubbing elements are not lubricated. For most automatic transmissions, the “50/50” rule applies: no faster than 50 km/h and no further than 50 km. Otherwise, only a tow truck.
Emergency procedures
If a cable breaks or another emergency situation occurs while driving, the driver of the towed vehicle must immediately turn on the hazard lights and smoothly, using engine braking and the handbrake (if working), press to the right side of the road. Sharp braking while the cable is taut can result in hitting the bumper of the car in front.
The driver of the towing vehicle, having felt a jerk or noticed a lag, is obliged to smoothly reduce speed and stop without making sudden maneuvers. Reconnection is allowed only after a complete stop and warning triangles have been displayed, if this occurs on the roadway.
Is it possible to tow a car with a non-running engine using a flexible hitch?
Technically it is possible if the brakes and steering are working properly. However, this is extremely dangerous, since the power brakes and steering do not work when the engine is turned off. You will have to press the brake pedal with enormous force, and it will be very difficult to turn the steering wheel. It is recommended to use a rigid hitch or a tow truck.
What to do if the cable length is 3.5 meters?
The use of such a cable is prohibited by traffic rules (minimum 4 meters). This is dangerous: the driver behind will have too little time to react when braking the driver in front. The fine for violating the towing rules will be 2,000 rubles (Part 1 of Article 12.9 of the Code of Administrative Offenses does not apply, rather Part 1 of Article 12.23 or a general violation of traffic rules), but the main price is the risk of an accident.
Is an "Emergency Stop" sign required when towing?
The "Spikes" or "Emergency Stop" (triangle) sign on the rear window when towing is not required by traffic regulations if the hazard warning lights are on. However, many drivers use the Towing sign (a yellow square with a red border and a black image), which is not a requirement but helps other drivers understand the situation.
Is towing allowed in icy conditions?
The traffic rules (clause 20.2 of the traffic rules) directly prohibit towing in icy conditions. The tire's coefficient of adhesion to the road is too low and it is impossible to predict the behavior of two connected vehicles. In such conditions, only calling a tow truck is permissible.
What is the penalty for improper towing?
Violation of towing rules (incorrect cable length, absence of flags, excessive speed, faulty lighting devices) entails an administrative fine of 2,000 rubles (part 1 of article 12.23 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation or part 1 of article 12.9, depending on the interpretation of the inspector; most often, article 12.23 is used).