When to Call Police vs. Tow Truck in Canberra: The Complete Guide

Accidents, breakdowns, and roadside emergencies can leave Canberra drivers asking one key question: should I call the police or a tow truck first? The answer isn’t always simple, it depends on the circumstances, ACT road rules, and the type of incident you’re dealing with.

This comprehensive guide will help you understand exactly when to call police vs. a tow truck in Canberra, backed by local regulations, expert towing advice, and answers to common driver concerns. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to do if your car breaks down in Tuggeranong, stalls on Northbourne Avenue, or you’re involved in a minor accident near Civic.

Why Knowing Who to Call Matters

Calling the wrong service in an emergency can cause:

• Delays in assistance (waiting for police when a tow is needed, or vice versa).
• Fines or penalties if ACT law requires police attendance.
• Increased stress when time and safety are critical.

By learning the difference between police and towing responsibilities, Canberra drivers can save valuable time and avoid legal issues.

When to Call the Police in Canberra

In the ACT, police are responsible for public safety, traffic control, and crime-related incidents. You should call the police if:

1. You’re Involved in a Crash With Injuries

• If anyone is injured, police attendance is mandatory.
• Call 000 immediately.
• Police will coordinate paramedics, manage the scene, and document the incident.

2. Property Damage or Traffic Hazards Exist

• If the accident causes major road blockages on streets like Kings Avenue or Commonwealth Avenue.
• If property such as traffic lights, barriers, or signage has been damaged.

3. A Dispute Exists Between Drivers

• If the drivers involved cannot agree on fault.
• If one party refuses to provide details.
• If you suspect another driver is under the influence.

4. You Suspect Criminal Activity

• Stolen vehicles.
• Hit-and-run accidents.
• Road rage or aggressive driving leading to a crash.

👉 Tip: In Canberra, drivers must report crashes to police if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. If it’s just a minor fender-bender with no dispute, you may not need to wait for police before calling a tow truck.

When to Call a Tow Truck in Canberra

Tow trucks are responsible for vehicle recovery and roadside assistance. You should call a tow truck when:

1. Breakdowns With No Injuries

• Flat battery, engine failure, or transmission issues.
• Fuel shortages or flat tyres.
• Situations where the car won’t move, but no collision or injury occurred.

2. Minor Accidents Without Injuries

• Fender-benders where vehicles are driveable but unsafe.
• Car door dents or bumper scrapes with no dispute.
• Private property incidents (e.g., reversing into a pole in a carpark).

3. Vehicle Obstructions

• Car parked illegally on private property.
• Abandoned vehicles blocking driveways.
• Cars stranded after flooding in Tuggeranong or Belconnen.

4. Special Vehicle Transport

• Towing of luxury, vintage, or electric vehicles (EVs).
• Moving caravans or motorcycles.
• Scheduled transport for cars not currently registered.

👉 Tip: In most cases of private vehicle breakdown in Canberra, you do not need to call police—just contact a licensed tow truck company.

Canberra Towing Regulations: What Drivers Need to Know

The ACT has specific towing regulations that every driver should be aware of:

• Authorised Tow Trucks Only – Only licensed operators can tow from accident scenes.
• Police Direction – If police attend, they may direct which vehicles need towing first.
• Consent Required – Except when police order a tow, the owner/driver must consent to towing.
• Fees Are Regulated – Canberra has limits on towing fees to prevent overcharging.

Failure to follow these rules may lead to disputes or fines. Always verify that your tow operator is authorised in the ACT.

Key Differences: Police vs Tow Truck in Canberra

Real-Life Scenarios in Canberra

1. Scenario 1: A car stalls on Commonwealth Avenue Bridge during peak traffic → Call police for traffic control, then a tow truck.
2. Scenario 2: A flat tyre in a quiet Gungahlin street → Call a tow truck or roadside assistance directly.
3. Scenario 3: A collision in Civic with no injuries, but one driver refuses to share details → Call police first.
4. Scenario 4: A luxury EV battery dies in Tuggeranong → Call a tow truck specialising in EV transport.

Safety Tips for Canberra Drivers

1. Stay visible – Turn on hazard lights and use reflective triangles if safe.
2. Move vehicles if possible – Clear the road to avoid secondary accidents.
3. Don’t wait inside a stranded vehicle – Step off the road where safe.
4. Save emergency numbers – Program local tow truck companies and ACT Policing into your phone.
5. Prepare an emergency kit – Carry a first aid kit, torch, and water.

Final Thoughts: Police vs Tow Truck in Canberra

In Canberra, knowing when to call police vs. a tow truck depends on whether there are injuries, disputes, hazards, or just a private breakdown. A simple rule is:

• Call police if lives, safety, or law are involved.

• Call a tow truck if it’s just about moving your car.

By understanding ACT laws, preparing for emergencies, and keeping contacts handy, Canberra drivers can handle stressful roadside situations with confidence.