Car Towing 101 explains what to do when your vehicle breaks down, from staying safe roadside to calling the right towing service and protecting your car. Having your car break down on the side of the road is one of the most stressful and frightening experiences you can go through.
But by staying calm, thinking rationally, setting up hazard lights, and calling in a tow truck when necessary, a disastrous situation can be de-escalated to a minor inconvenience. This blog shows you how to prepare to handle a car breakdown.
Car Troubles: Knowing What To Do From Breakdowns To Towing
Alright, let’s suppose you’re travelling down a highway and find yourself stranded on the side of the road as your car sputters and coughs to a stop. Should you panic or call for a tow truck? Neither. Here is a look at all the steps you should follow when facing a potential towing emergency.
Buckle in and keep on reading!
- Stay Calm!
Easier said than done? We understand. But the first step to dealing with any kind of emergency is not to panic. Keep a clear head as you start experiencing the first signs of your car malfunctioning and logically plan your next steps. Having a plan not only boosts your confidence, but also keeps your friends and family travelling with you from panicking.
- Turn On Your Hazard Lights
As soon as you register that there is an issue with your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights even if you’re still driving. This warns other drivers that you’re experiencing car trouble, and they are more careful when they pass by.
- Pull Off The Road & Park
Next, maneuver your car away from traffic as it stops. Aim for the right shoulder of the road as it’s more preferable, and once you’re at a safe enough distance, park. Be careful not to drive too far off the road, as it might make it difficult for roadside assistance or tow trucks to locate you when you call for them.
- Signals & Flares
Up next, turn on your flares and put up triangles at the back of your vehicle to reflect headlights. This will warn other drivers and keep you safe from accidents and collisions, just in case.
- Assess The Situation
Now, think back to a few moments ago. What exactly did you experience as your car was breaking down? Were there any strange noises you heard? Smoke coming from the hood? Jerky movements from your car? Make note of all these things as they will help the mechanics reach the root of the problem faster.
- To Stay Or To Move Away; That Is The Question
When experiencing a car breakdown, it is generally advised that you stay in the vehicle. This not only protects you from the effects of harsh climate, but also keeps you safe from any shady strangers who might notice you’re in trouble.
On the other hand, if your vehicle is not safe a fire, perhaps? It’s always a better idea to get to a safe distance as soon as possible. Crawl out the passenger side to avoid oncoming traffic as you make your way to safety.
- Call For Help
Depending on how much trouble your car is in, you have two options. You could reach out to roadside assistance. If it’s a small issue, they will arrive with the necessary tools and fix your car right there. But, if it was a collision or the breakdown is more complicated, it’s time to use your app to call for a tow. Sometimes your roadside assistance provider may recommend a towing company to you, but if you’re still uncertain, you could always call 911 for emergency towing.
- Reach Out To Insurance
Remember, if you were in an accident, your insurance provider will cover the cost of towing. Be sure to reach out to them as well when calling for help.
- Patience & Preparation
You’ve done all you could; now it’s time to wait patiently for the tow truck to arrive. Gather all your documents, like license, registration, and insurance information, before the tow truck to ensure smooth proceedings, and do not accept help from any concerned stranger as you wait. Give the driver clear instructions about your location and don’t panic.
Conclusion
To conclude, your car breaking down doesn’t always mean you need a tow truck. Sometimes the problem can be solved with a bit of roadside assistance. Either way, it is important to stay calm, stay safe, assess the situation, and give clear instructions to your towing service provider when they eventually do make it to your location. We hope this article helped you prepare for any eventual vehicular misfortune and hope you stay safe as you drive down the road.
FAQs
How long does it take for a tow truck to arrive?
Typically, it takes an hour for the truck to arrive and secure your vehicle, but the time can vary due to difficult terrain, accidents, or hazardous weather; it can take longer.
What is the safest way to tow a vehicle?
Loading it onto a tow truck so that none of the wheels are touching the road is generally the safest way.
How much does it cost to tow a car?
Depending on the time of day, distance, and the type of vehicle, the cost can be anywhere between $1870 and $400.
