What are the rules on driving with a tow hook in the EU?
I am getting a tow hook installed on my car, the type that you can take off by removing two screws (tools needed). And hence two question:
- What are the rules in EU governing driving with the hook installed if it is empty?
- If I am using one of these bike racks mounted on the towing hook, what are the speed limits? Are they the same as for (standalone) cars, or the same as for cars towing caravans?
EDIT: In the near future I am planning to drive through Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Germany and France - so I am mostly interested in these countries.
Best Answer
Partial answer:
I assume you mean a tow hitch normally used for this, instead of an hook for this (because I never heard of bike racks for the latter one).
Germany
The empty hitch: If it obstructs the view to the license plate, it must be removed. There are no other "hard" rules. However, in an accident, if the hitch causes more damage than it would be without, it can influence who pays how much of the whole cost (at least, courts tend to do it like this).
The bike rack: If it blocks the view to the license plate, you'll need a third plate (really a third, not just relocating the existing one). If there is a stricter speed limit depends on the model, there should be some limit in the manuals (at least). If it is not indicated on the rack itself too, take the manual with you.
(source: StVO and FZV, and some statements of lawyers in the internet)
Austria
Same as in Germany
(altough there are red license plates that can be used for the third instead of the normal one, but that's not important for foreigners). (source this time: KFG)
Pictures about "What are the rules on driving with a tow hook in the EU?"
Can you tow with tow hook?
Tow hooks are basic tools you can attach to your vehicle so you can pull it safely. Tow hooks are used for towing vehicles, and using one or several of them is simply a much better choice than the alternative \u2013 hooking your tow chains or straps right on the wheel axles, the suspension or the bumpers.Are tow ropes legal in UK?
When one vehicle is towing another with a rope or chain the maximum distance allowed between them is 4.5 metres. If the distance between the two vehicles exceeds 1.5 metres then the rope or chain must be made clearly visible within a reasonable distance from either side to other road users.How do you use a tow hook?
Most are pretty basic. So long as you don't have a really heavy car they should all work fine. Make sure they have plenty of thread and use loc-tite when installing. Some attachment points are tucked under the car which requires a different style than ones that protrude.Double manning under EU driving rules - 2022
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Erik Mclean, Mike B, Shannon Deng, Brett Sayles