Which device is approved for moving an inoperable passenger vehicle off the roadway?

• A. The push bumper
• B. A winch
• C. The tow hitch
• D. A forklift

Answer: (A)

When repositioning a disabled passenger vehicle on a roadway, you want a method that allows a controlled, front-end contact from a safe distance so you can move at a very low speed without creating unpredictable movement. The push bumper is designed for this purpose: it gives a sturdy, direct surface on the leading vehicle to gently push the other car off the roadway in a controlled, low-speed manner, helping you maintain stability and visibility while reducing the risk of damage to either vehicle.

A winch, while useful in many recoveries, requires anchoring and can produce a sudden or jerky pull if the line isn’t secured properly, making it less suitable for steady, on-road pushing. A tow hitch is intended for towing, not pushing, and relying on it to move a vehicle can place unusual stresses on the hitch and the connected cars. A forklift is not appropriate for use on public roads and around traffic due to its size, stability, and safety concerns.

So the push bumper is the best-fit choice for safely moving an inoperable passenger vehicle off the roadway under typical roadside conditions.