There have been many reports of a tow truck operator being injured in the process of removing a driveshaft, also known as an RV driveline, but in theory, the injury could occur with any vehicle.

Our own California towing association was contacted by a motorist who witnessed the tow truck operator being struck by the driveline he was removing and sustaining a serious head injury. As I read this horrible description, I went over the scenario in my mind, how it happened, and how it could have been prevented.

With over 30 years of experience in the towing industry, I have experienced this same situation many times. It is one of the main topics in the training of every new employee and is regularly reviewed as a training tool when we conduct our safety meetings.

The problem arises when the transmission or differential is locked, causing the driveline to bind.

1. The crane must be attached with safety chains to the disabled vehicle before proceeding with any other steps.

2. Never attempt to remove the drive shaft without first grasping it with your hand and rocking it back and forth to determine free play.

3. If there is no free play, you must lift a drive wheel off the ground to relieve stress or bind on the drive shaft, allowing you to achieve free play. Once again, I reiterate, do not do this unless the disabled vehicle is connected to the tow truck!

4. Once the tension or binding is released, it is now safe to remove the drive shaft.

Unfortunately, driveline removal injuries occur all too frequently and are a cause for concern in the towing industry. If the simple but life-saving steps above are not followed, the crane operator finds himself unable to remove the driveshaft. The crane operator then uses other tools, such as a pry bar, to pry the driveshaft out, causing the driveline to jump and spin like a propeller.

Towing is a dangerous occupation just to be on the road. Safety should always be the first concern in the performance of any crane operator.