Have you ever thought about what you would do if you were driving your vehicle and ended up stranded on the side of the road? You probably hope something like this never happens, but you should be prepared in case it does. If and when you do get stranded on the side of the road, calling a towing service is usually your best option.
Not only are towing services trustworthy, but they provide professional assistance in all kinds of situations. To help you gain a better understanding of towing services, learn about six things you should know.
1. Know the Reasons for Towing Services
Towing services are necessary for various reasons. Some of the most common reasons that motorists need towing services include:
- Collision with another vehicle
- Overheated engine
- Transmission failure
- Empty gas tank
- Car stuck in the ditch, mud, or snow
- Flat tire
- Jump-start for battery
You might also need towing services if you have locked the keys inside your vehicle.
2. Know the Kinds of Vehicles that Can Get Towed
If you wonder whether you can get towing services for any type of vehicle, the answer is yes. Along with all kinds of passenger vehicles, many towing companies also tow vehicle trailers, motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Many towing companies also provide heavy-duty towing services. Heavy-duty towing includes garbage trucks, buses, farm equipment, motor homes, and semi-tractor trailers. No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, if you need a tow, it can be done.
3. Know the Difference Between a Wrecker and a Tow Truck Driver
A tow truck driver and a wrecker both tow vehicles. However, tow truck drivers are not authorized to do any type of repair work to your vehicle. On the other hand, a wrecker not only tows the vehicle, but they also provide on-site repair and maintenance services.
4. Know About the Different Types of Tow Trucks
Using the right tow truck allows a tow truck driver to tow any type of vehicle safely without causing damage to the vehicle they are towing.
The most commonly used types of tow trucks include:
- Hydraulic flatbed. This has a ramp operated by hydraulics to load a vehicle onto the flatbed.
- Integrated tow truck. This has extra axles and is primarily for heavy-duty vehicles.
- Hook and chain. This uses a hook and chain to tow the vehicle and is mainly for wrecked automobiles.
- Wheel lift. This uses special equipment to secure the vehicle by the front or rear drive wheels.
A tow truck driver or a wrecker will always use the right kind of tow truck. Doing so allows the tow truck driver to provide services for a stranded vehicle in nearly any type of situation, location, and weather.
5. Know How Much Towing Services Cost
In
many cases, tow truck services cost anywhere from $75 to $125. This cost often includes a $50 hookup fee and also the first five to 10 miles the tow truck driver needs to drive when they tow your vehicle. After the first five to 10 miles, a tow truck driver usually charges $2 to $4 per mile. If your vehicle needs to be towed 100 miles, it could cost up to $450.
The cost of towing services is because of the following factors:
- Range of distance
- Type of vehicle
- Time of day
Before you call for a tow truck, call your car insurance company first. If your car insurance contains tow truck service, you might not have to pay anything. Roadside assistance membership clubs also help to cover the cost of towing services.
6. Know Who to Call If You Need Towing Services
If you get stranded on the side of the road in Beaverton, Or, and need a tow, contact
Rocketmantowing. Our family owned and operated business provides 24-hour towing services.
