3 Bad Reasons for Getting Towed & Smart Ways to Prevent Them
Getting your vehicle towed is never pleasant — it’s stressful, inconvenient, and often entirely avoidable. Many car drivers, van owners, and motorists across the UK find themselves dealing with vehicle towing due to preventable mistakes.
This guide outlines three of the worst reasons for getting towed, along with practical tips to prevent them.
1. Parking in Restricted or Improper Zones
One of the most common (and frustrating) reasons vehicles get towed is poor parking — especially in restricted areas. Parking in a place clearly marked as a no-parking zone, or in spaces reserved for emergency services, loading bays, or residents only, can get your vehicle removed quickly.
These zones are often patrolled, and local authorities don’t hesitate to take action if your vehicle is seen as an obstruction or violation. Many drivers either ignore the signs or don’t see them, especially in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas.
How to Prevent It:
- Always look for visible parking signs before leaving your car.
- Use mobile parking apps to confirm restrictions.
- Avoid guessing — if in doubt, find another space.
A quick online search for car towing service may help you locate recovery help if you've already been towed, but prevention is far easier (and cheaper) than retrieval.
2. Leaving Your Vehicle in a Hazardous Position
Some drivers believe it’s okay to leave their vehicle temporarily in spots they consider “harmless.” Unfortunately, the rules don’t allow for much leniency. If your vehicle is causing an obstruction — such as blocking a bus stop, pedestrian crossing, entrance, or junction — it’s at risk of being towed, regardless of how short the stop is. Even stopping for “just a few minutes” can lead to penalties if it puts pedestrians, other motorists, or emergency services at risk.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Parking on double yellow lines, even briefly.
- Stopping near school entrances or bends in the road.
- Blocking driveways, access roads, or emergency exits.
If your vehicle is towed due to unsafe positioning, you’ll not only face a fine but may need to contact a car recovery service to retrieve it — often at significant inconvenience.
3. Abandoning a Broken-Down Vehicle Without Taking Action
It’s understandable to feel panicked when your car breaks down, especially in the middle of a journey. However, simply leaving the vehicle on the roadside without notifying anyone or taking immediate steps can lead to it being towed. Authorities are within their rights to remove vehicles deemed abandoned or left in unsafe locations. Even if your intentions are to return with help, failing to alert the proper channels can cause your vehicle to be removed — sometimes within hours.
How to Prevent It:
- Always call a breakdown or recovery service immediately.
- Place hazard lights and, if safe, a warning triangle behind your car.
- Inform local authorities if your vehicle will be left for any period.
If you're unsure who to call in these situations, it helps to have the number of a car towing company saved in your phone. Acting quickly can make all the difference in avoiding a tow.
The Unexpected Cost of Towing a Car
One of the harshest realities motorists face after getting towed is the cost of towing a car. Even if the vehicle was removed for a minor offence, recovery fees, daily storage charges, and fines can build up quickly. In many cases, vehicle owners don’t realise the cost involved until they’re hit with a surprisingly large bill at the compound. These charges vary depending on the area and situation but can often exceed £150–£300, not including penalties or repairs.
Avoid the Expense:
- Learn local parking rules and stick to them.
- Take immediate action if your vehicle breaks down.
- Respond quickly if you're alerted that your vehicle is at risk of towing.
Even a moment’s mistake can lead to substantial costs. Being proactive is the most effective way to avoid unnecessary fees and frustration.
Best Practices to Prevent Getting Towed
Avoiding the tow truck doesn’t require luck — it just takes a bit of attention and awareness. Follow these simple habits to stay in control:
Always:
- Park legally, even when stopping for a short time.
- Watch for temporary parking signs and roadworks.
- Keep your vehicle in working condition and avoid parking illegally when broken down.
- Have contact details for
car towing services ready, just in case you do need help.
Also, be mindful when parking in unfamiliar towns or cities. Local restrictions can vary widely, so even if something seems okay where you live, it may be considered an offence elsewhere. This is why so many people frequently look up car towing near me to understand local rules and services.
Getting towed is rarely about bad luck — more often, it’s the result of an avoidable mistake. Parking in restricted areas, leaving your car in a hazardous spot, or failing to act during a breakdown are some of the top offenders.
By staying aware of your surroundings, following basic parking regulations, and knowing who to contact in case of an issue, you can save yourself the stress, cost, and time involved in car towing situations. Take steps today to ensure you're not caught out. A few minutes of awareness can make all the difference on the road.
At Car Recovery Warrington, we understand how frustrating and inconvenient vehicle issues can be. That’s why we offer fast, reliable support to motorists, car owners, and van drivers throughout the area. Whether your vehicle needs relocating to a garage or you're stuck in an unexpected situation, we're ready to help — professionally and promptly.
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car towing mistakes and smart tips to avoid them!
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