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How Towing Companies Release Your Emergency Brake

August 30, 2025Transportation4071
How Towing Companies Release Your Emergency Brake Recently, several in

How Towing Companies Release Your Emergency Brake

Recently, several individuals experienced an unpleasant situation with their cars being towed in harsh weather conditions. One particularly concerning case involved a car being towed during a winter storm, where the towing company reportedly used a slim wire to unlock the door and release the emergency brake without permission or proper procedure. Such incidents bring up important questions about the practices and ethics of towing companies.

Common Methods Towing Companies Use to Release the Emergency Brake

When towing a car, it’s essential to safely remove the vehicle from danger or an intolerable situation. To ensure they can move the vehicle even if it is locked or the emergency brake is engaged, towing companies often use a variety of methods:

Towing Equipment

Many tow trucks are equipped with specialized tools designed to manipulate the vehicle’s emergency brake. These tools can disengage the brake or apply pressure to the brake release mechanism, ensuring the car can be moved safely.

Accessing the Brake Release Mechanism

Some vehicles have a manual release for the emergency brake that can be accessed from inside the car or through the wheel well. Towing professionals might have the knowledge to access this mechanism and release the brake.

Vehicle Design and Flatbed Trucks

In some cases, the design of the vehicle and the use of a flatbed truck can result in the emergency brake not being fully engaged during towing. This is particularly true when the car is laid on its side or a flatbed truck is used, allowing the car to be transported without the wheels touching the ground.

Driving the Vehicle Temporarily

With permission, towing companies might temporarily drive the vehicle a short distance to a more suitable location for towing. This can allow them to release the emergency brake before towing, ensuring a smooth operation.

Manual Override

Some vehicles have a manual release for the emergency brake that can be used if the driver has the proper tools or knowledge. While this method is less common, it can be a viable option in certain situations.

Concerns and Ethical Practices

The recent incident with a towing company unlocking a car and releasing the emergency brake with a slim wire raises significant concerns. Such practices can lead to unnecessary car damage and even stolen vehicles. It's crucial for towing companies to adhere to ethical and legal standards in their operations.

What to Do If Concerned

If you have concerns about how your vehicle was handled during towing, it is a good idea to contact the towing company for clarification on their procedures. Understanding the steps they took can help ensure your vehicle is handled properly in the future.

Conclusion

The issue of emergency brake release during towing is complex, with various methods and practices in use. While some may seem convenient or necessary, it is important to ensure that these procedures are done ethically and legally to protect both the vehicle owners and their property.