When can agency vehicles not equipped with a push bumper be used to push inoperable vehicles?

• A. Only if there is immediate danger to motorists
• B. In any situation
• C. When directed by supervisor
• D. If vehicle is under 2 tons

Answer: (A)

The key idea is safety and proper equipment for vehicle assistance. Vehicles without a push bumper are not meant to push other cars because there’s a high risk of uncontrolled contact, unpredictable forces, and damage to both vehicles and people. They should only be used to push an inoperable vehicle when there is an immediate danger to motorists—so moving the vehicle out of the travel lane or away from a hazard becomes necessary to prevent a crash or serious injury. In any other situation, using a non‑bumper vehicle to push would create more risk than benefit, and proper equipment or towing should be used. The unsafe alternative of relying on weight or a supervisor’s directive doesn’t override the fundamental safety constraint, and the option about a weight threshold doesn’t determine when pushing is allowed.