Congressman Proposes Highway Towing Safety Bill

A new bill in Congress seeks to make roadside recoveries safer for tow truck operators and first responders. Rep. Dave Taylor (R-Ohio) on Wednesday introduced the Towing Safety Act, legislation designed to reduce the dangers faced when large disabled vehicles break down on busy highways.

Current federal length restrictions often force tow crews to dismantle tractor-trailers on the shoulder of interstates before they can be moved. Taylor’s bill would temporarily waive those length limits, allowing tow operators to haul wrecked or disabled vehicles to a safer nearby location instead.

“Roadside incidents create extremely hazardous conditions,” Taylor said, noting the risks to tow operators, law enforcement, and passing drivers. “This bill gives responders flexibility while prioritizing safety.”

The waiver would apply only in-state and on routes approved by local transportation officials. Vehicles being towed must still meet existing federal safety standards. Source: https://taylor.house.gov