Running late to meet a friend can be stressful, and the last thing you need is the embarrassment and inconvenience of finding your bike towed by the traffic police due to improper parking. In this scenario, it’s crucial to understand the motivations behind towing, common parking mistakes, and the appropriate course of action to navigate this situation effectively.
Recognising The Reasons Behind Towing
Improper parking is a common cause of towing, and understanding the typical errors can help avoid such situations. Some common parking mistakes include parking where it’s not allowed, obstructing other road users, parking in pedestrian crossings or on sidewalks, in front of service areas, or on busy streets. Additionally, leaving the bike unattended for an extended period, especially in crucial areas like hospitals or schools, can lead to towing.
Preventing Towing: Exercise Caution And Abide By Laws
To prevent the police from towing your bike, it’s essential to exercise caution and abide by traffic laws. Avoid common parking mistakes mentioned earlier, as witnessing the towing of your motorcycle can be not only excruciating but may also result in potential legal issues and damage to your bike.
If you have a comprehensive or standalone two-wheeler insurance policy, it can reimburse damages caused during towing, depending on your chosen coverage. Ensure you carefully select the Insured Declared Value (IDV) for bike insurance to receive appropriate compensation. Third-party two-wheeler insurance is mandatory as per the law. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the motor insurance policy. *
Make sure you carry out the process of two-wheeler insurance renewal on time. When disputing the towing of your bike, be sure to present the chassis number of your bike to the authorities, as it serves as a crucial identifier for your vehicle in resolving the situation efficiently.
What To Do If Your Two-Wheeler Is Towed
- Gather Information From Eyewitnesses: Question passersby or locals about the incident. Eyewitness testimony can be crucial, especially if the tow was wrongful.
- Visit The Nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO): Look up the addresses and phone numbers of RTOs on the government website. Ensure you have your driver’s license, two-wheeler insurance policy, and vehicle registration certificate.
- Note Down Damage: Examine your bike for any dents or scratches. Take pictures of damages and inform your bike insurance company immediately.
- Pay Fines: Pay the necessary fine to regain custody of your bike. If you believe the tow was not your fault, file a formal complaint or escalate the matter to higher officials. Avoid attempting to bribe, as it can worsen the situation
Understanding and adhering to parking and towing regulations is vital. Sections 127 and 201 of the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988 empower the police to tow unattended vehicles after ten hours. While rules may vary between states and cities, the fundamentals remain consistent. Stay informed about traffic laws in your city to avoid unnecessary legal issues
Parking incorrectly to save time can be costly financially and inconvenient. To spare yourself the trouble of a towed bike, park securely and appropriately. Respect traffic laws, stay informed, and enjoy your ride without unnecessary legal hassles
*Standard T&C Apply
Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
