When You May Tow a Broken-Down Vehicle
Towing is allowed only to bring a broken-down vehicle to the nearest garage or safe parking spot – not for general transport.
Motorways and semi-motorways are off-limits for towing. Leave them at the next exit.
Swiss Driving Theory · RTA / TRO
Towing
Swiss towing rules: only emergency, max. 40 km/h, max. 5 m cable, hazard lights on, motorways prohibited. Use a rigid tow bar if brakes have failed.
Speed, Cable and Lights
Maximum speed when towing: 40 km/h
Tow cable / rod: maximum 5 m long, clearly visible (red flag on a rope)
Hazard lights on in both vehicles, day and night
The towed driver must have a valid licence and steer / brake actively
Difference: Towing vs Trailer
Towing = pulling a broken-down vehicle (emergency, max. 40 km/h). Trailer = a vehicle built to be pulled (different rules, higher speeds).
Brakes-failed vehicle: never tow with a rope – use a rigid tow bar.
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