The Indiana Code outlines provisions for tow trucks to ensure disabled vehicles are moved in a manner that doesn't pose a danger to others on state roadways. Regulations are specific to the equipment and vehicles used to tow, as well as the circumstance. State tow truck law remains relatively flexible to best serve the people of Indiana.
Length Limitations
Indiana law dictates that a tow truck hauling another vehicle may exceed the general length limit of 60 feet, however the combined length of a disabled vehicle and a tow truck towing the vehicle by a tow bar, saddle mount, or full mount cannot be more than 75 feet. The device used to connect the vehicle to the tow truck cannot exceed 15 feet in length.
Vehicle Requirements
The Indiana Code states that tow trucks may exceed state weight and length limits for coupled vehicles if they are designed specifically for towing, have flashing, amber lights, and have the ability to use the lights and brakes of the vehicle being towed, if they still function.
Special Permits
The Indiana Department of Transportation and local authorities can issue special towing permits, which allow a particular vehicle to be operated outside of state regulation if it is deemed to be for the public good. These permits may or may not list special conditions, such as different length and weight requirements or a designated route by which to tow vehicles.
Safety Equipment
In case of safety equipment such as chains or cable, the Indiana Code leaves the matter to federal regulation. Any equipment allowed by the United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration or the National Highway Safety Bureau of the United States Department of Transportation is considered in accordance with Indiana state law.
References
Writer Bio
Owen Rogers has been a full-time English student since 2008 at the State University of New York at Geneseo. This is his first experience writing in a professional sense.