Towing Laws in Queensland Every Driver Should Know

Whether you have been in an accident, had your car towed from private property, or just want to know your rights, understanding Queensland's towing laws protects you from being overcharged or mistreated. Here are the key rules every driver should know.

Your Right to Choose Your Own Tow Truck

In Queensland, you have the legal right to choose your own tow truck operator after an accident or breakdown. You do not have to accept a tow truck that arrives at the scene uninvited. If a tow truck appears without being called, you are under no obligation to use them. Call the operator you trust and wait for them to arrive.

Accident Towing is Regulated

Accident towing in Queensland is governed by the Tow Truck Act 2023 and Tow Truck Regulation 2024. Key requirements include:

• All tow truck operators must be accredited by Queensland Transport
• Maximum fees apply for accident towing
• The operator must provide a written receipt with an itemised breakdown of costs
• You have the right to direct where your vehicle is towed, provided it is safe and reasonable
• Tow truck operators are prohibited from soliciting work at accident scenes

Private Property Towing Fees Are Capped

Under Queensland regulations, maximum charges apply when your vehicle is towed from private property:

• Standard private property tow: capped at $299.90
• On-site release (car is on the truck but has not left): capped at $179.95
• Daily storage fees are also regulated

If you believe you have been overcharged, you can lodge a complaint with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Rules for Towing Your Own Vehicle

If you are towing a car yourself using a rope, chain, or towbar, Queensland Road Rules require:

• A licensed driver must be in the towed vehicle controlling brakes and steering
• The distance between vehicles must not exceed 4 metres
• The towed vehicle's brakes and steering must be fully functional
• At night, the towed vehicle must have working tail lights or portable rear lights
• Only one trailer or vehicle may be towed at a time

Storage Rights

If your vehicle is being held in a towing yard, you have the right to access your personal belongings inside the vehicle during reasonable hours. The towing company cannot refuse you access to your own property. Storage fees must be clearly communicated and cannot exceed regulated maximums for certain types of tows.

What to Do If You Have a Complaint

If you believe a tow truck operator has acted improperly, overcharged you, or violated any of these rules, you can lodge a complaint with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads. Keep all receipts, take photographs, and note the tow truck registration number and operator details.

For more details on our services and pricing, visit our services page or pricing page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a tow truck just show up at an accident and tow my car?

No. Tow truck operators are prohibited from soliciting work at accident scenes in Queensland. This is called storm chasing and is illegal. You have the right to choose your own operator.

What should I do if a tow truck overcharges me?

Keep all receipts and note the operator details and truck registration. Lodge a complaint with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads. Maximum fees are regulated for certain types of tows.

Do I have to go to the tow truck company nearest holding yard?

No. You have the right to direct where your vehicle is towed, provided it is safe and reasonable to do so.