Just Along for the Ride

By Randall C. Resch

Headlines from a prominent news station read, “CHP Investigating Officer Seen Riding in Towed Cruiser on Freeway.”

The video showed a marked black-and-white patrol cruiser riding atop a flatbed carrier’s deck. As I watched, was I filled with horror and dismay? I think not.

At face value, the clip might seem comical to some and outrageous to others. But for those in towing, this taps into a long-standing debate: should operators ever allow occupants to remain inside vehicles being towed or, in this case, transported?

The video captured a uniformed officer seated behind the wheel while the cruiser, reportedly suffering from a transmission issue, was winched onto the carrier and hauled at highway speed. The vehicle was properly secured using a four-point tie-down. It’s worth noting—it wasn’t “towed” with wheels on the ground, but “transported” on a deck. Food for ThoughtSituations like this push beyond the norm and raise questions of acceptability. Consider the following:

• Is it illegal for someone to ride in a transported vehicle?

• What about individuals with ADA-related limitations?

• Is this an accepted industry practice?

• Would insurance providers allow it?

• What happens when there are more passengers than available seats?

• What if law enforcement can’t assist?

• Do towers leave motorists stranded on the shoulder?

• What if a tow operator is given a lawful order by law enforcement?

• When safety is at stake, which takes precedence—policy or the situation at hand?

For those quick to criticize the video, understand this: in some states, it’s not illegal. That doesn’t make it recommended—but it does mean there are exceptions, especially when circumstances fall outside the ordinary.

Towers should know the distinction between “towed” and “transported” vehicles under their state laws. In certain situations—particularly those involving public agencies or emergency response—there may be allowances. But that still leaves the question: what defines an “emergency”?

The officer in this case likely had a reason for remaining in the vehicle. The tow company, in turn, may have been operating under direction. When law enforcement gives a lawful order based on conditions, hazards, and judgment, operators are often left making real-time decisions. To the Contrary

History offers a sobering reminder.

A 1966 headline read: “5 Killed, 4 Hurt in Freeway Crash.” The story detailed a group riding in a vehicle being towed after breaking down. Their car was struck from behind by a speeding semi. The impact caused a fire, trapping and killing four occupants. Another was ejected. Two others, riding in the tow truck itself, were unharmed.

That tragedy highlights a critical distinction:

• A towed vehicle remains at traffic level, exposed to surrounding hazards.

• A transported vehicle sits elevated on a carrier deck, removed from direct impact zones.

Neither scenario is without risk. But it raises a practical question: is transport inherently safer than towing when occupants are involved?

There’s also the reality towers face every day. Safety laws require seatbelts. Tow truck cabs have limited seating. So what happens when there are more people than seats?

Do you leave them behind on the shoulder?

In some situations, keeping occupants contained—even if unconventional—may be the safer option.

As for the officer riding along? It may be less about controversy and more about circumstance. Maybe even just a slow news day.

What’s your take?

Operations Editor Randall C. Resch is a retired, veteran, California police officer, former tow business owner and industry advocate. As consultant and trainer, he authored and teaches tow truck operator safety courses approved by the California Highway Patrol. For 57-years, he has been involved in the towing and recovery industry. In 29-years, he has contributed more than 800-safety focused articles for American Towman Magazine, TowIndustryWeek.com and POLICE Magazine. He is a frequent seminar presenter and beauty pageant judge at tow shows. In 2014, he was inducted to the International Towing and Recovery Industry Hall of Fame, was the 3rd recipient of the industry's "Dave Jones Leadership Award," and is a member of American Towman’s Safety Committee.

Email Randy at rreschran@gmail.com.