When you need to have your vehicle towed, there are some basic steps to help this experience go more smoothly. Taking the measures required to prepare your car for a tow can avoid damage and make the process smoother. Considering that you may have little experience with towing your vehicle, it is easy to overlook some basic steps when preparing the car for the tow truck.
Remove Personal Belongings from the Car
In most cases, the vehicle being towed is not in working condition. If this is the case with your car, you might want it towed to a repair center. For this reason, removing personal items or other valuables from the car's interior is always advisable. Your vehicle may need to be at the repair facility for several days or longer, and removing them is the most effective way to keep them safe. While waiting for the tow truck, you should prepare these items so you will be ready when the tow truck arrives.
Secure Loose Parts and Accessories
Loose parts or accessories can become a safety hazard during the towing process. In addition to making it harder to load the car onto the tow truck, these loose items could make it much more likely for an accident or other damage. Many towing services require clients to secure these accessories before they haul the vehicle. An example of this could be a loose spoiler or mud flap. Removing any loose accessories inside the cabin is also advised. A loose phone mount, GPS device, or other accessories could get dislodged during the towing process. If this occurs, the item could suffer damage, possibly even damaging other parts of the car's cabin.
Protect Yourself from Traffic
While waiting for the tow truck, you may be in a hazardous area. This is particularly true when your car breaks down along the side of a major highway or interstate. Using roadside flares, hazard cones, and staying away from the road can help minimize the risk of an accident. These steps also make it easier for the tow truck to find you.
Communicate Clearly with the Tow Truck Driver
When talking to the tow service, you must explain your location to the driver. Otherwise, they will be unable to reach you. Providing clear instructions about where your car is located is crucial. Including landmarks may also help the tow driver find your vehicle. These professionals may call your cell phone when they are close, and you should preserve your phone battery while waiting.
Contact a local towing company to find out more.
I have never loved taking care of my car, but about two years ago, I realized that I had really hit rock-bottom. My vehicle seemed to be having a range of different problems, and it was really frustrating to see how much it was impacting my ability to get things done. Instead of heading to appointments and taking care of issues around the house, I was always dealing with a sputtering, troubled vehicle. I wanted to do something to ensure that I wouldn't get stranded in my car, so I started paying more attention to making things right. Check out this blog to learn how to take care of a car properly.