Towing a vehicle might seem simple, attach a rope or chain and pull. But in reality, using a rope or chain to tow a car is one of the most dangerous mistakes a driver can make. Not only can it cause serious damage to both vehicles, but it also poses a major risk to everyone on the road. If your vehicle breaks down, calling a professional towing service is always the safest and smartest move. With this in mind, we at Non Stop Towing would like to stress why you should never tow with a rope or chain.
Safety Risks are Sky High
Ropes and chains are not designed for the stress and unpredictability of towing a vehicle, especially on busy streets or highways. One sudden brake or sharp turn can cause the towed car to jackknife, swerve into another lane, or even crash. If the towing vehicle accelerates too quickly or the rope/chain snaps under tension, it can become a high-speed projectile, putting pedestrians, other drivers, and both vehicles in danger.
Lack of Control
When a professional tow truck hauls a vehicle, it’s typically lifted off the ground, either by wheel lift or flatbed. With a rope or chain, the vehicle stays on its wheels and lacks any braking control. The towed car must rely on the driver in front for smooth, coordinated movements. If either vehicle stops suddenly or isn’t aligned correctly, the trailing car can rear-end the one in front or veer off course. Also, many modern vehicles are equipped with electronic braking systems that don’t function when the engine is off, making it nearly impossible to steer or stop safely while being towed in this way.
Legal Consequences
In many states and cities, it is illegal to tow a vehicle with a rope or chain on public roads. Law enforcement considers it a safety hazard and may issue hefty fines or impound your vehicle. If an accident occurs during an improper tow, you could be held liable for damages or injuries, potentially facing civil or even criminal charges.
Damage to Vehicles
Using a rope or chain doesn’t offer the kind of shock absorption or stabilization that professional tow equipment does. This means every bump, dip, or sharp movement can cause serious stress on the vehicle’s frame, suspension, or transmission. A chain might slip and cause body damage, while a rope can wear through attachment points, break under pressure, or create uneven towing forces. You could easily end up with a much higher repair bill than if you had just called a tow truck in the first place.
Professional Towing is Worth It
Professional tow trucks use the right tools, flatbeds, wheel lifts, tie-downs, and safety lights, to transport your car without endangering anyone. They also come with insurance, training, and experience, which gives you peace of mind in an already stressful situation.
Towing & Roadside Assistance Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
Towing with a rope or chain isn’t just risky, it’s reckless. The cost of a professional towing service is minimal compared to the dangers and potential damage of doing it yourself the wrong way. When your vehicle breaks down, don’t gamble with safety. Call a towing professional, such as Non Stop Towing, and let our experts handle it right.
