Can a Tow Truck Operate in an Underground Garage?
4 Answers
An underground garage can accommodate towing operations using a pickup tow truck. Here are the precautions to take when towing: 1. Prefer a Tow Bar: If the towed vehicle has brake issues or the towing is to be done on icy or snowy roads, a tow bar should be prioritized. A rigid tow bar can prevent the towed vehicle from losing control of its speed if the towing vehicle pulls too hard or needs to brake suddenly. In general, using a tow bar is safer. 2. Choose the Right Hook: The towing hook should not just "hook" onto the vehicle but must be securely fastened and properly installed. Double-check that the hook is properly engaged before towing. If the hook comes loose halfway, it can cause significant trouble. 3. Plan the Route and Maintain Communication: Select a towing route with less traffic, better road conditions, and a shorter distance. Avoid areas with heavy pedestrian or commercial activity, underground parking lots, or other potentially hazardous sections to reduce the risk of secondary accidents. Ideally, use walkie-talkies to maintain constant communication for immediate handling of emergencies. At the very least, use horn signals to coordinate. 4. Control Speed and Distance: Pay special attention to speed control and the distance between the two vehicles during towing, as slight misjudgments can lead to accidents. Do not drive as fast as usual; maintain a speed of around 20 km/h and never exceed 30 km/h. Many vehicles lack vacuum-assisted braking when not running, so speed must be kept low. Also, maintain an optimal distance of 5-11 meters between vehicles to allow the towed vehicle enough time to react if the towing vehicle brakes suddenly.
I've handled many cases of towing in underground garages. Whether a tow truck can enter mainly depends on the garage's height and space limitations. The entrance height of underground garages is usually around 2 to 2.5 meters, while standard tow trucks often exceed 2.8 meters or even 3 meters in height. Driving straight in would definitely hit the ceiling or damage facilities. Additionally, garage passages are often very narrow, and tow trucks may not have enough turning radius during operation, easily scraping against pillars or other vehicles, causing secondary damage. Safety is the biggest concern - if the entrance is too steep or has slopes, the tow truck might slip or lose control, especially during rainy days which is particularly dangerous. I recommend first measuring the garage's height and width, then using a walkie-talkie to contact the towing company and describe the dimensions. They'll send an appropriate low-profile or foldable tow truck. If a car breaks down inside, don't force towing - first have someone check if temporary repairs are possible to avoid unnecessary losses and troubles.
In my experience, towing vehicles in underground garages does carry risks, primarily concerning safety precautions. The tow truck entering the garage may collide with low-hanging entrances or ventilation ducts, potentially causing equipment damage or personal injuries—especially during nighttime when poor lighting makes operations more challenging. The confined space in garages can obstruct other vehicles' access when the tow truck reverses, and wall scratches from accidental scrapes are common. Additionally, steep entrance slopes may cause the towed vehicle to roll uncontrollably—I once handled an accident where the owner's rushed towing attempt resulted in brake failure. It's advisable to first verify the garage height, take photos with your phone, and consult professional towing teams in group chats; some companies have specialized compact tow trucks for narrow underground spaces. Considering fire safety and security regulations, most residential complexes also prohibit external tow trucks as a preventive measure—regular vehicle maintenance can reduce breakdown risks. If towing is unavoidable, coordinate with property management to assess a safe route beforehand.
From my observation, towing in underground garages often fails due to height and space constraints. The garage entrance is too low, making it easy for tall tow trucks to get stuck. Narrow passages prevent tow trucks from turning properly, risking getting jammed or scraping other cars. I once saw a neighbor's garage towing attempt fail because the entrance ramp was too steep—the car slid down before it could be towed. Handling such situations is troublesome; you need to measure dimensions in advance and call for a suitable tow truck. If necessary, coordinate with property management to move obstacles and clear the path. Safety first—don't force it blindly.
