Can I Ride in My Car While It Is Being Towed in Queensland?

It is a question tow truck drivers get asked almost every day: can I sit in my car while you tow it? The short answer for professional towing is no. Here is why and what your options are.

Professional Towing: No Passengers in the Towed Vehicle

When your car is being towed by a professional tow truck on a flatbed or tilt tray, no one is allowed to ride inside the towed vehicle. This is a safety requirement. The vehicle is strapped down and secured for transport, and having a passenger inside creates a serious safety risk in the event of sudden braking, a collision, or equipment failure.

Can I Ride in the Tow Truck?

Yes. Most tow trucks can carry one or two passengers in the cab alongside the driver. This means you can ride with your vehicle to the mechanic, your home, or wherever the car is being dropped off. When you call us, let the dispatcher know how many passengers need a ride so we can confirm seating availability.

DIY Towing: Different Rules

If you are towing a car yourself using a rope, chain, or rigid towbar (not a professional tow truck), Queensland law requires that a licensed driver must sit in the driver's seat of the towed vehicle to control the brakes and steering. This is the one situation where someone must be in the towed vehicle.

Queensland Road Rules also require that when towing another vehicle yourself:

• The towed vehicle's brakes and steering must be in working order
• The person in the towed vehicle must hold a valid driver licence for that vehicle class
• You must not tow at night or in poor visibility unless the towed vehicle's tail lights are working
• The distance between the two vehicles must not exceed 4 metres

What About Pets?

Pets cannot ride in the towed vehicle either. If you have a pet with you when your car breaks down, they ride in the tow truck cab with you. Let us know when you call so we can make arrangements.

For more answers to common questions, check our FAQ page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sit in my car on a flatbed tow truck?

No. When your car is being transported on a flatbed or tilt tray by a professional operator, no passengers are allowed in the towed vehicle for safety reasons.

Can I ride in the tow truck cab?

Yes. Most tow trucks can carry one or two passengers in the cab. Let the dispatcher know how many passengers need a ride when you call.

What about my pet during a tow?

Pets ride in the tow truck cab with you, not in the towed vehicle. Let the operator know when you call so they can make arrangements.