Oregon Towing Laws Explained: What Drivers and Truck Operators Need to Know

When a vehicle breaks down or an accident occurs, towing isn’t just about removing a car from the road, it’s about safety, legality, and protecting everyone involved. Oregon has specific towing laws designed to reduce roadside injuries, prevent secondary accidents, and regulate how vehicles are recovered.

Understanding these laws can help drivers, fleet operators, and commercial truck drivers make safer decisions when towing is required.

Oregon’s Move Over Law and Tow Trucks

One of the most important towing-related laws in Oregon is the Move Over Law (ORS 811.147).

What the Law Requires

Drivers must move over to the adjacent lane or slow down when approaching:

• Tow trucks

• Emergency vehicles

• Roadside assistance vehicles

  displaying emergency or warning lights.

This law applies on all Oregon roads, including highways like I-5, I-205, and Highway 26, as well as city streets.

Why It Matters

Tow operators are frequently injured or killed by passing traffic. Slowing down or moving over protects:

• Tow truck operators

• Stranded drivers

• Emergency responders

• Other motorists

Failing to comply can result in fines and serious legal consequences.

When a Vehicle Can Be Towed After an Accident

In Oregon, a vehicle may be towed when:

• It is blocking traffic

• It poses a safety hazard

• It is disabled beyond safe operation

• Law enforcement authorizes removal

In many non-emergency situations, drivers may choose their own towing company. However, in active accident scenes or hazardous conditions, law enforcement may require immediate removal to keep roads safe.

Commercial Vehicle & Heavy-Duty Towing Regulations

Commercial trucks and heavy vehicles are subject to additional considerations:

• Load shifts must be stabilized properly

• Jackknifed or overturned trucks require specialized recovery

• Improper towing can cause roadway damage or environmental hazards

Using a licensed, insured heavy-duty towing provider ensures recoveries are performed correctly and in compliance with state and federal regulations.

Why Professional Towing Is Required Under Oregon Law

Oregon towing regulations exist to prevent:

• Secondary accidents

• Unsafe roadside conditions

• Environmental damage

• Improper vehicle handling

Professional towing companies have:

• Certified operators

• Proper lighting and safety equipment

• Traffic control experience

• Specialized recovery tools

Attempting unsafe DIY towing or using unqualified operators can result in additional damage, injuries, or legal liability.

Towing Safety Responsibilities for Drivers

If your vehicle becomes disabled in Oregon:

• Turn on hazard lights immediately

• Move to a safe location if possible

• Stay inside the vehicle if exiting is unsafe

• Follow instructions from law enforcement or towing professionals

Safety always comes before convenience.

Professional Towing Services Throughout Portland & Oregon

Northwestern Towing provides towing and recovery services throughout:

• Portland

• Gresham

• Happy Valley

• Clackamas

• Damascus

• Sunnyside

• I-5, I-205, Highway 26, and Columbia Corridor

From light-duty towing to heavy-duty and rotator recovery, experienced operators help ensure every recovery is done safely and legally.

When You Need Towing in Oregon, Experience Matters

Oregon’s towing laws are designed to protect everyone on the road. Choosing a professional towing provider ensures compliance with these laws while keeping drivers and responders safe.

If you need towing or recovery services in Portland or the surrounding metro area, Northwestern Towing is available 24/7.