Questions
Questions and answers
We have gathered the questions drivers ask most often when their car lets them down on the road or when they are preparing for a long trip. If your answer is not here, look in the topic sections, which go into more detail.
The most useful question to ask yourself on the roadside is not "what has broken?" but "where is the safest place to stand right now?"
About the guide
Is this the same towing service that used to operate here?
No. The former towing company website on this domain has closed, and unrelated advertising was hosted here afterwards. The current guide has no connection with either and provides no services.
Can I book a tow truck through you?
No, we do not take orders or pass them on to operators. If you need help right now, find a service yourself, and if you are in danger, call 112.
Why don't you recommend specific companies?
The quality of the work depends on the individual driver and the day, and any recommendation quickly goes out of date. We explain how to check a service yourself, which works anywhere.
Where does your information come from?
Rules of behaviour on the road come from the Russian Road Traffic Regulations, advice about a particular car refers you to its owner's manual, and general safety guidance comes from leaflets for drivers.
Recovery and towing
When is a tow truck the only option?
When the steering or brakes do not work, after a crash that damaged the wheels or suspension, when you suspect a serious engine fault, and when the manual prohibits towing your car.
What distance is required when towing?
On a flexible tow, 4 to 6 m; on a rigid tow bar, no more than 4 m. Mark the rope with flags or tape so other drivers can see it.
Is a wheel-lift suitable for my car?
For all-wheel-drive cars and many automatics, a flatbed is safer. Check the owner's manual and tell the dispatcher your drivetrain and gearbox type.
How do I prepare my car for loading?
Photograph the bodywork from all sides, take your documents and valuables, and note the mileage. If the car can move, the operator will tell you when to start the engine and drive onto the bed.
Safety
Where should I wait for help on a highway?
Behind the crash barrier or at a safe distance from the road, not in the car and certainly not behind it. If there is no barrier, move as far from the traffic lane as you can.
How far away should the warning triangle go?
At least 15 m from the car in a built-up area and at least 30 m outside built-up areas. Where visibility is poor, it makes sense to place it further.
Do I have to wear a vest?
Outside built-up areas at night or in poor visibility, yes, if you are on the carriageway or the shoulder after a forced stop. The rest of the time it is simply a sensible habit.
When should I call 112?
When someone is injured, there is a fire or smoke from the engine bay, a threat to life, or when you cannot keep people safe yourself. The dispatcher will tell you what to do until the services arrive.
Read next
- Safety
How to behave on the hard shoulder after a forced stop: hazard lights, warning triangle, vest, where people should wait and what not to do.
- Reviews
An overview of the ways to get help on the road (tow truck, roadside repair, towing, insurance cover) and a catalogue of articles.
- Breakdowns
Common roadside problems: the car won't start, a flat tyre, overheating, an empty tank, the oil warning light, keys locked inside.
Sources
- Russian Road Traffic Regulations (sections 2.3.4, 7.2, 20.3, 20.4)
- Vehicle owner's manuals (general provisions)
- EMERCOM of Russia — leaflets for drivers
Traffic rules are quoted from the Russian Road Traffic Regulations as in force on the date of preparation. Rules are revised from time to time and every car has its own quirks, so check the current text of the rules and your vehicle's owner's manual. If you drive outside Russia, check your local rules and emergency number.