Georgia and Alabama Towing Association

03/29/2026

03/13/2026

A young man was riding an electric bicycle when he was struck by a vehicle, causing the bicycle to be dragged approximately three-quarters of a mile. Please exercise caution.

03/04/2026

The second day at the Capitol showcases the diligent efforts of individuals working for the state legislature, which is commendable. Thanks are due to Georgia's towing companies for their assistance in representation.

03/03/2026

Supporting and advocating for Georgia's Towing Companies at the State Capitol level

03/02/2026

Representatives from the Georgian and Alabama Towing Association are heading to Georgia's capital for meetings today.

01/21/2026

Expect cold temperatures this weekend due to large ice formations. Be careful, stay safe, and keep warm. Picture supplied by Sacramento Towing.

01/03/2026

The Famous Jason JB tow is in Lagrange Ga

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas

12/03/2025

Does a Winch Cable Count as a Tie-Down? (FMCSA / DOT 393.128)
Short answer: No. A winch cable does not count as a required tie-down.
FMCSA 393.128(b) states that tie-downs used to secure a vehicle must be independent of the loading/unloading equipment, including winching or hoisting mechanisms. Tie-downs have to control forward, rearward, lateral, and vertical movement of the vehicle.
A winch line only controls forward pull. It does not prevent:
Rearward movement
Side-to-side movement
Vertical lift or bounce
And because the winch cable is part of the loading/unloading mechanism, it is not an independent securement device.
Why It Does NOT Count as One of the Required Tie-Downs
It is part of the winching system, not a securement system.
It does not provide all four directions of restraint required by 393.128.
FMCSA guidance has consistently held that a winch line cannot be counted toward the minimum required tie-downs for a vehicle being transported.
Minimum Tie-Down Requirements (for vehicles on trailers)
Under 393.128(d):
Vehicles under 10,000 lbs: At least 2 tie-downs, each on opposite sides.
Vehicles 10,000 lbs or more: At least 4 tie-downs, one in each corner.
Additional tie-downs as needed to prevent movement in all directions.
Winch cable does not satisfy any of these required positions. What’s your thoughts.