What to Do When You Need Emergency Towing

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, unexpected car troubles can throw a wrench into our plans and leave us stranded on the roadside. Knowing what steps to take when you need emergency towing can make a big difference, whether it's a flat tire, engine failure, or any unforeseen mechanical glitch.

In this blog, we'll explore a comprehensive guide on what to do when you need a tow, covering everything from ensuring your safety to finding the right towing service to get you back on the road. So buckle up as we navigate through the essential steps to easily handle those unexpected roadside detours and find out what do to when you need emergency towing.

Move the Vehicle to a Safe Location

The first and foremost priority when facing a breakdown is ensuring safety. Once you sense trouble with your vehicle, maneuver it to a secure spot away from traffic, if possible. This simple step protects you from potential accidents and allows for a more efficient towing process. Hazard lights on, signalling your distress to other drivers, can be a helpful precaution while finding a safe spot for your vehicle.

Call Insurance Company

After securing your vehicle, contacting your insurance company should be your next move. Inform them of the situation, providing details about your location and your issues. Some insurance policies include towing services so that they might guide you on the next steps. Understanding your coverage can save you from unnecessary expenses and ensure a smoother process when the tow truck arrives. A quick call can also help you get recommendations for reputable towing services if your policy doesn't cover the towing expenses.

Determine if It Really Needs to Be Towed

Assessing the severity of the issue is crucial before opting for a tow. Some problems might be fixable on the spot, especially with the assistance of roadside tools or help from passersby. If the issue is minor and can be addressed without professional towing, it saves you time and money. However, if the problem is beyond quick fixes, proceeding with the towing process becomes imperative for your safety and your vehicle's well-being.

Consider Roadside Assistance

Before committing to a tow, explore the possibility of roadside assistance services. Many service providers offer on-the-spot repairs for common issues, eliminating the need for towing. From jump-starting a dead battery to fixing a flat tire, roadside services can be a cost-effective and time-saving alternative. Check if your insurance or a separate roadside assistance plan covers such services and take advantage of them whenever applicable.

Identify Exact Location

When seeking a tow, precise location information is paramount. Use landmarks, street signs, or GPS coordinates to relay your exact position to the towing service. This ensures a swift response and minimizes the chances of any confusion in locating your stranded vehicle. Providing accurate details helps expedite the towing process, making it easier for the tow truck to reach you promptly.

Prepare Vehicle for Towing

Before the tow truck arrives, take a few moments to prepare your vehicle for the towing process. Ensure that you remove all personal belongings, and if possible, secure loose items within the car. Fold in side mirrors and, if applicable, release the emergency brake. These simple preparations streamline the loading process for the tow truck and help prevent any damage to your vehicle during transportation.

Make Sure the Tow Truck That Shows Up Is the Right One

Confirming the identity of the tow truck is crucial to avoid potential scams. If you've called for a tow, verify that the truck matches the description provided by the towing service. If someone else has called for the tow on your behalf, inquire about the towing company's name and verify it before allowing them to tow your vehicle.

Tell the Driver Exactly Where You Want Your Vehicle Dropped Off

Clearly communicate your preferred drop-off location to the tow truck driver. Whether it's your trusted mechanic's garage or home, providing explicit instructions helps ensure your vehicle reaches its desired destination without unnecessary detours. This saves you time and minimizes the chances of additional charges for changes in drop-off points.

Read All Paperwork Before Signing or Making Payment

Before finalizing the towing process, carefully read all paperwork presented by the driver. This includes any service agreements, cost estimates, or receipts. Understanding the terms and conditions ensures you're not caught off guard by hidden fees or unexpected charges. Take the time to clarify any uncertainties with the driver before signing or making any payments.

Make Sure Quoted Cost Is Reasonable

Before committing to the towing service, confirm that the quoted cost aligns with industry standards and the services provided. Researching average towing costs in your area can give you a benchmark to assess the reasonability of the quoted price. Be wary of any significant discrepancies, and don't hesitate to question or negotiate the cost if it seems disproportionately high. Use our calculator.

You Aren't Obligated to Pay in Cash

Towing services often accept various payment methods, and you are not obligated to pay in cash. Verify with the towing company about the accepted payment options and choose the most convenient method. This flexibility ensures a smoother transaction and provides you with a payment record for your records.

Keep the Receipt and Paperwork Provided by the Driver

Once the towing process is complete, retain all receipts and paperwork the tow truck driver provides. These documents are crucial evidence of the transaction and can be essential for any follow-up inquiries or insurance claims. Keeping organized records contributes to a hassle-free experience, especially if you need to refer back to the details of the towing service in the future.

About GoWrench Emergency Towing Service

If you have ever found yourself stuck somewhere with a car or tire problem, you know that calling and waiting for a tow truck to bring your car to a garage, where you will have to wait even longer, is highly inconvenient. This is why GoWrench Auto brings the service to your location with our mobile auto and tire repair services; whether you need a battery boost, fuel delivery services or maybe car lockout services, our 24/7 towing services go beyond just reliably picking up your car.

With highly-trained mechanics, the right technology, a dedicated customer service team, and the proper equipment, over 500 services can be completed at your workplace, on the job or in your driveway. GoWrench Auto is here to change the way you think about car repairs.

Call us today at (866) 959-1195 to learn how we can help you with your tire change!