You’re driving home from work, or you’re on a road trip, and suddenly, your car breaks down. This is a scary situation to be in, especially if you don’t know the area very well. You may not know who to call for help. In this post, we will provide you with helpful tips on finding a reliable tow truck service that can help you get back on the road as soon as possible.
When do you need a tow truck?
Several instances on the road may cause you to need a tow truck. The most common causes are as follows:
Flat tire – When you have a flat tire, it can be really inconvenient. You may not have the tools to change your own tire, or you might need someone to help do it for you. Flat tires are one of those things that can happen at any time and leave your vehicle immobile until they are repaired. Most towing companies provide roadside assistance and can get you back on the road in no time!
Inability to start – If your vehicle fails to start in any way, this may indicate an underlying problem with either its engine or electrical system and should be checked by a professional.
Accident – If you are involved in a traffic accident, the operator may tow you to the nearest garage for repair or storage. This will help to ensure that your vehicle is in a safe area and stored securely.
Dead battery – A dead battery can be caused by leaving your car idle for a long time. However, it may also need to be replaced if you have trouble starting the engine.
Empty gas tank – If you run out of gas, and there aren’t any gas stations in sight, a towing provider can help you! Many towing companies will deliver gas to you.
Ignition key lock – If you accidentally lock your keys inside your car, a tow truck driver can help unlock your vehicle. They have the proper tools and training to perform this task without causing damage to your vehicle.
How do you find a tow truck service?
Once you have determined that you need a tow truck, it is time to start looking for one. There are several ways to do so, including:
Search online
Search online for a local towing service if you have access to the internet and know your location. Search engine options like Google Maps can be convenient. This will help reveal nearby services in your area that offer different rates depending on their location. Most local towing companies have websites listing contact information, rates, and services offered.
Call a friend or family member
If you are not comfortable using the internet or do not have access to it, ask a friend or family member for recommendations of reputable towing services in your area. They may have had personal experience with a towing service that was satisfactory. This is also a sure way of finding the best towing service you can rely on, especially if you are stranded in an unfamiliar area.
Ask for referrals from local mechanics/insurance companies
If you have a go-to mechanic that you trust, you can call them for recommendations. They are often aware of reputable local towing services and can provide you with information on their rates and any discounts they may offer. You can also ask your insurance company if they know of any professional towing service. Insurance companies often partner with a variety of different towing/roadside assistance providers, so they’ll most likely be able to give you some options!
What should I look for in a towing company?
There are several factors to consider when looking for a towing service. They include:
Reliability and trustworthiness
A reputable towing company should have plenty of experience and trained staff, have positive reviews from clients, be insured, and hold the necessary permits required by law.
Affordable rates
Towing rates can vary based on the towing company, so getting quotes from multiple providers can be beneficial before deciding. Be sure to ask about any additional fees that may apply, such as mileage or wait time. Doing this will prevent any misunderstanding and confusion later on.
Variety of services offered
Not all towing companies offer the same services. Some may only tow a vehicle for a certain distance or have limited availability for towing motorcycles or large vehicles. Make sure the towing company you choose offers the services you need.
Professionalism
The best towing service should be professional and courteous when contacting you and when arriving on the scene.
Fast response time
When you need a tow truck, the last thing you want is to wait long for one to arrive. Look for a towing company with a fast response time that can get to you quickly.
How long before the tow trucks arrive?
Some towing services will give you an estimate for how long it will take for the tow truck to arrive, while others may not. In general, it takes around 30 minutes for a tow truck company to arrive once you call them. If it has been longer than this, contact the towing company again and ask what is causing the delay.
How much will I be charged?
Towing companies charge different rates depending on the circumstances surrounding your vehicle’s breakdown or accident. If you’re not sure how much to expect, it can be hard to budget for this expense. Most towing companies will provide you with an estimate before arriving at the scene, but if they don’t, be sure to ask for an estimated cost.
Need a Tow?
The next time you find yourself stranded in the middle of the road, contact NFS Towing for speedy help! With years of experience and a team of professional drivers, we’ll get you back on the road in no time.