12.27. Is the driver allowed to exceed the maximum permitted speed while towing?
UAЧи дозволено водієві перевищувати максимальну дозволену швидкість під час буксирування?
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This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine concerns the safe choice of speed in a high-risk situation when one vehicle is towing another. During towing, the likelihood of losing control, breaking the tow rope, or increasing the braking distance rises, so the traffic rules set clear restrictions that must be observed regardless of the conditions and location of movement. Such knowledge is directly tested in the theoretical exam, as a mistake in speed during towing can lead to a traffic accident.
The question checks the section of the Traffic Rules about speed, in particular the requirements of points 12.7 and 12.9 b). According to the Traffic Rules, a separate speed limit applies during towing, and point 12.9 b) directly prohibits exceeding the maximum speed established by the Rules for the relevant conditions. Thus, the towing situation itself does not give the driver any right to "drive faster," even if the road seems clear or there is an urgent need to reach a repair location.
If we analyze the answer options, the correct statement is the prohibition of exceeding: the speed limit is mandatory and has no exceptions due to towing. On the other hand, the version about the possibility of exceeding the limit if there is "sufficient length of flexible coupling" is incorrect, because the length of the rope does not cancel the established limits and does not eliminate the main dangers (coupling breakage, trajectory instability, more difficult braking of the towed vehicle). That is why in practice it is important to maintain a moderate speed and act strictly according to the traffic rules.
Clause 12.7 (limitation of maximum speed during towing)
During towing, the speed must not exceed 50 km/h.
Clause 12.9 b) (prohibition of exceeding established speed limits)
It is prohibited: "b) to exceed the maximum speed specified in clauses 12.4, 12.5, 12.6, and 12.7, on a section of road where road signs 3.29, 3.31 are installed or on a vehicle that has an identification sign installed in accordance with subparagraph 'i' of clause 30.3 of these Rules".
That is, the correct answer is "Prohibited.", given that according to the definition of the Traffic Rules, a separate speed limit (no more than 50 km/h) is established during towing, and exceeding the established maximum speed is prohibited.
During towing, the driver is also required to comply with established speed limits. Towing is not a reason to “reconsider” these limits or to try to reach the repair location faster, as such a situation on the road is considered highly dangerous.
Clause 12.9 (b) of the Traffic Rules directly prohibits exceeding the maximum speed established by the Rules (including the limits set for specific driving conditions). In other words, the rule is simple: the maximum permitted speed must never be exceeded, regardless of whether you are driving alone or towing another vehicle.
In practice, the risks increase during towing: at higher speeds, the coupling (rope, attachment) may not withstand the load, and the towed vehicle becomes less controllable and may drift out of its lane or even into oncoming traffic. In addition, the towed vehicle may have poorer braking conditions, making it harder for the driver to stop safely or maintain a safe distance.
That is why the speed during towing must be moderate and within the limits established by the Traffic Rules (in practical terms, this means towing should be carried out without exceeding the set limits, usually not faster than 50 km/h). Exceeding the speed limit in such a situation is a violation and directly contradicts the requirements of clause 12.9 (b).
Therefore, the correct answer is "Prohibited," since the Traffic Rules (clause 12.9 (b)) do not allow exceeding the maximum permitted speed, and during towing this additionally creates increased danger due to the risk of loss of coupling and control.