Short answer: in most cases, no, you shouldn’t ride in a car while it’s being towed. It might seem convenient, especially if your vehicle has broken down unexpectedly, but it’s usually unsafe and often illegal.
Across Australia, towing rules are designed to protect drivers, passengers, and other road users. Riding in a towed vehicle creates serious safety risks, which is why professional tow truck operators won’t allow it.
Let’s break down why this rule exists, when (if ever) there are exceptions, and what you should do instead.
Is it legal to sit in a car that’s being towed?
In most Australian states and territories, passengers are not allowed to remain in a vehicle while it’s being towed. Road safety laws require all passengers to be properly seated and restrained in a vehicle designed to carry them safely.
A towed vehicle doesn’t meet those requirements.
Once your car is being towed, it’s no longer considered a normal operating vehicle. Seatbelts may not function as intended, airbags are inactive, and the vehicle isn’t under its own braking or steering control.
Because of this, riding inside a towed car is generally considered unsafe and non-compliant with road rules.
Why is riding in a towed car dangerous?
Even at low speeds, towing creates unpredictable movement. The towed vehicle can sway, jerk, or brake suddenly, especially during turns or on uneven roads.
Key safety risks include:
- No active braking control in the towed vehicle
- Limited or no power steering
- Increased risk of rear-end collisions
- Reduced visibility for other drivers
- No proper protection in an emergency stop
If an accident occurs, the person inside the towed car has very little protection. That’s why professional tow truck drivers will always ask passengers to ride in the tow truck or arrange alternative transport.
Does the towing method make a difference?
Yes, the type of towing used plays a big role.
Tow truck towing
When your car is loaded onto a tilt tray or flatbed tow truck, riding inside the vehicle is never allowed. The car is secured, immobilised, and often lifted off the ground entirely.
Once it’s strapped down, the vehicle is treated as cargo, not a passenger vehicle.
Tow bar or rope towing
Even in private towing situations using a tow bar or rope, riding in the towed vehicle is still unsafe and not recommended. While some people assume it’s acceptable at short distances, it still poses serious risks.
Many roadside incidents we attend involve improper towing setups, which makes having a person inside the towed car even more dangerous.
Are there any situations where it might be allowed?
In very limited circumstances, some rural or private property situations may allow slow-speed towing with a driver inside the towed vehicle. However, this does not apply to public roads.
For public road use, licensed tow operators follow strict safety guidelines, and none will allow passengers in the towed vehicle. Even if someone insists, the tow simply won’t proceed.
If a towing company allows this, it’s a major red flag.
What happens to passengers during a tow?
If your car breaks down and needs towing, passengers usually have a few options:
- Ride in the tow truck (if seats are available)
- Arrange a lift with a friend or family member
- Use a rideshare or taxi service
- Be dropped off safely before the tow begins
Professional tow services prioritise safety and will help you find the safest solution, especially if children or elderly passengers are involved.
What about pets in a towed vehicle?
Pets should never remain inside a car while it’s being towed. The vehicle may be tilted, lifted, or exposed to exhaust fumes during loading and transport.
Pets should travel with you in the tow truck cabin (if permitted) or in a separate vehicle. Their safety is just as important as yours.
Why won’t tow truck drivers make exceptions?
Tow truck operators aren’t being difficult, they’re protecting everyone involved.
Allowing someone to ride in a towed vehicle:
- Violates safety regulations
- Exposes the operator to legal liability
- Increases risk during loading and transport
- Endangers other road users
From our experience in roadside assistance and vehicle recovery, following proper towing procedures prevents injuries and serious accidents.
What should you do if your car breaks down unexpectedly?
If you find yourself stranded:
- Pull over safely and turn on hazard lights
- Move passengers to a safe location away from traffic
- Call a licensed, insured tow truck service
- Follow the operator’s safety instructions
Trying to “make do” by riding in a towed vehicle often leads to bigger problems than the breakdown itself.
Does riding in a towed car affect insurance?
Yes, it can. If an accident occurs while someone is riding in a towed vehicle, insurance may not cover injuries or damages.
Many insurance policies specifically exclude coverage for unsafe or illegal actions. That means you could be personally liable for medical or repair costs.
How do professional towing services keep you safe?
Reputable tow truck companies use:
- Properly maintained tow trucks
- Certified operators
- Correct load restraints
- Clear safety procedures
These standards exist to ensure that everyone, drivers, passengers, and other motorists, gets home safely.
Riding in a car while it’s being towed might sound harmless, but it carries serious risks and is usually against the law. Professional towing is designed to remove broken-down vehicles from the road safely, not transport passengers inside them. When your car needs towing, your safest move is simple: step out, follow the tow operator’s guidance, and let the professionals handle the rest.
If you are in Doncaster, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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