Rules & legality
Who is responsible if a vehicle recovery goes wrong?
No Tarmac field guides · Updated 2026-09-12
Before you start: A friendly recovery can still cause injury or damage. Agree on the plan, understand your equipment and check the cover; a casual waiver does not settle responsibility.
General information, not legal advice. Confirm the requirements for your vehicle, route and travel date with the responsible authority.
Make the safety decision first
Pause if you cannot establish a suitable method. Australian ACCC guidance warns against attaching recovery straps to tow balls or other unsuitable points. It recommends proper recovery points, undamaged equipment, following instructions and keeping people clear. This is technical guidance, not Indian law or a complete recovery procedure. Get trained help when uncertain.
Check responsibility and cover
Responsibility depends on the facts, applicable law and relevant agreements. Ask your insurer specifically about recovery activities and damage to the other vehicle. For organised drives, have a qualified adviser review participant terms and insurance. Record the plan without treating paperwork as a substitute for safe work.
Road towing has its own rules
Regulation 30 of the 2017 Driving Regulations sets a 25 km/h towing limit and a maximum five-metre separation. It also covers connection visibility, ON TOW signs and lighting. These provisions do not make a kinetic recovery appropriate on a public road. Use a suitable recovery service when a disabled vehicle cannot be moved safely.
Before you decide
- Is professional recovery needed here?
- Does the policy expressly cover this recovery and the other vehicle?
- What road-towing or event requirements apply?
Official references
Check the issuing authority for later changes. Reviewed 2026-09-12.