If you find yourself stranded on the side of the road in an emergency situation, calling a tow truck may be your best option. However, how does it work exactly?
Be sure to get a clearly itemized bill. Many towing companies charge a hook-up fee and an additional per-mile price based on your vehicle’s weight.
What is a tow truck?
A tow truck is a vehicle that’s equipped to haul your car to its destination after it breaks down or gets into an accident. These trucks are usually stationed at intersections and other popular areas where drivers tend to experience roadside troubles.
Flatbed Tow Trucks
One of the most common types of tow trucks is a flatbed truck, which features a long bed on its rear designed to carry vehicles on top of it. These tow trucks use hydraulics to vertically shift their beds up and down, making it easy for the operator to load a vehicle onto the bed.
Bracket System Tow Trucks
A bracket system tow truck uses a metal frame that fits a car’s front wheels, making it an excellent option for transporting damaged vehicles. Unlike hook and chain tow trucks, which leave the cars susceptible to damage, this method is considered safe and secure for towed vehicles. Moreover, the operator can control this system from the comfort of their cab, ensuring minimal manual touch from the driver.
How does a tow truck work?
A tow truck works by fitting brackets in between a vehicle’s front or rear drive wheels and then securing them with pins. This system avoids damaging a car’s body, making it an efficient and safe option. It also allows operators to stay inside the cab, which can be helpful when repossessing vehicles or when transporting disabled cars.
These tow trucks have a flat-topped trailer on their back that lowers like a ramp, which makes it easy to load a vehicle. They’re often used to haul stranded cars to auto repair shops.
This towing service can be a lifesaver in the event of an emergency, so it’s worth investing in roadside assistance with your auto insurance or joining a third-party provider. You can also add this service to your existing coverage through a mobile app. For more information, compare auto insurance policies now. You’ll be glad you did!
How much does a tow truck cost?
The cost of a tow truck depends on a few factors. Your location, time of day and the type of tow will affect the price. You can expect to pay more for a tow truck call at night, on the weekend or during holidays. Larger, oversized vehicles also cost more to haul. Additionally, if you are calling for a tow truck after a collision, there may be extra fees for glass cleanup and non-standard hookups.
Many car insurance policies provide coverage for roadside assistance towing services. Some have dollar limits, while others are based on mileage. Having the number of a local towing service in your phone is a good idea, and you should know what your plan covers before an emergency occurs.
Beware of companies who try to take advantage of people in desperate situations by pricing gouges. Always call a reputable company that provides upfront pricing and has a history of reliable service.
What are the benefits of calling a tow truck?
There are several benefits to calling a tow truck. For one, they can offer assistance at any time of the day. Additionally, they can help with many different issues related to vehicles. For example, they can help a driver who is locked out of their vehicle or help them get back on the road after an accident. They can also help a driver who has run out of gas.
A tow truck can also be used to move a vehicle from one location to another. This is especially useful when the vehicle is no longer running. In addition, tow trucks can be used to remove illegally parked vehicles.
Summary:
While there are many benefits to calling a tow truck, it is important to remember that not all tow trucks are created equal. Some tow truck drivers may try to scam you or charge you for services that you didn’t request. To avoid this, always make sure that the tow truck you call is reputable and licensed.