When you’re broken down on the side of the road, you know you need a tow truck but how do you decide which company you call? You want to make sure your car is going to be towed to the location you specify (a dealership or garage) and that the tow company won’t damage (or cause further damage) to your vehicle en route. If you’ve never had to call a tow truck before then the sheer number of ones available may seem overwhelming. Here are some things you need to keep in mind when calling a tow truck so you make sure you pick the right company.
Pricing
When you call the towing company, the dispatcher will ask you where you are located and where you want the vehicle to go to. They will also ask details about the vehicle such as what’s wrong with it (if you know), what kind of vehicle it is and so on. With all that information, the company will be able to determine what they need to send to you so they can definitely give you a price over the phone. Any reputable company will give you either the cost of the tow (based on your information) or they will provide a flat rate fee to you. They will also make you aware of any possible additional fees that can only be determined once the drivers arrive. If the company cannot give you this information, they may try to charge you huge amounts after they are in possession of your vehicle which means you have to pay it.
The Right Equipment
Good towing companies will utilize flatbed trucks because they prevent further damage to all vehicles while undertow. When on a flatbed, the car is level and completely locked in place. With the traditional hook trucks there can be a lot of damage to the underside of your vehicle which you can’t really see until it’s too late.
More than Towing
When you’re stuck somewhere you may not really need a tow. When it’s really cold outside your battery might just need a boost to get going so towing your vehicle somewhere isn’t necessary. You might have a flat tire because you ran over something sharp. Reputable towing companies know there are many reasons you could be stuck, and they will offer services accordingly. Many reputable and helpful towing companies will offer services like fuel delivery, battery boost, flat tire change, winching or car lock out.
Trust Your Instinct
When you call a company, the dispatcher should make you feel like you’re going to be ok and your car will be safe. If you feel uneasy about talking to the dispatcher for the company or when the driver arrives on scene then it’s completely ok to say it’s you want to find someone else. Your instincts are very important, and it’s crucial you are comfortable with the company taking your vehicle since you’re trusting them to drop it to where they say they will.
Being broken down anywhere is stressful and can be very scary, so choosing the right tow truck to get your vehicle to your mechanic is important. Doing some research before you need a towing company may be beneficial so you have the name of a company you want to use. We’re here to help if you have any questions before you’re stranded!
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