Welcome to the sixth issue of Crash Towing Industry News.
Our regular newsletters will provide important updates about the crash towing industry reforms including legislative changes that may affect how you operate.
Department of Transport authorised officers will enforce existing tow truck requirements and also the new requirements for tow trucks outlined here. It is anticipated that new regulations and requirements will come into effect in mid-January 2025.
Tow truck technical standards
The crash towing reforms will not change tow truck technical standards, including the equipment required under Part 12 of the Road Traffic (Vehicles) Regulations 2014. Further information on tow truck technical standards and general equipment requirements can be found at tow truck technical standards.
However, the reforms will introduce specific requirements for tow trucks engaging in crash towing as outlined below.
Tow truck must be licensed in WA
Any vehicle used to tow crashed vehicles must be a tow truck (as defined in the Road Traffic (Vehicles) Regulations 2024) and must be licensed in Western Australia.
Penalty: Individuals, a fine of $5 000. Bodies corporate, a fine of $25 000
Tow truck must not display restricted names or logos
Restricted names or logos must not be displayed on a tow truck that is used to tow crashed vehicles. Restricted names or logos include the name or logo of:
- a public entity* such as Main Roads Western Australia;
- an insurance company;
- a roadside assistance provider; or
- a vehicle repair service or car hire service.
*This does not apply if the restricted name or logo is that of a public entity and the public entity has given written consent to the display of the name or logo.
Penalty: Individuals, a fine of $9,000. Bodies corporate, a fine of $45,000.
Dashcams
As outlined in issue 3 of Crash Towing Industry News, all tow trucks used to tow crashed vehicles must be fitted with a dashcam.
Contact us
If you are unable to locate the information you require on our website, please submit your enquiry below or contact us on (08) 9320 4111 between 8 am to 4.30 pm weekdays.
