When your car needs to be towed, it's often in an emergency situation. It may be because you've broken down on the side of the road, or because you realize your engine has stalled when you try to crank up the car for work. In either event, you may be tempted to contact the first tow truck company you can find because you need help right away. However, even though you may be in dire straits, it's still important to choose your tow truck service wisely. Use these two tips to help you select the right tow truck company when you're in a pinch.
Opt For Flatbed Towing
The first thing you want to do when you're looking for a good tow truck service is find out how they tow the cars. This is absolutely critical, because the wrong towing method could take an already difficult situation and make it worse.
There are essentially two common ways to tow vehicles: Hook-and-chain and flatbed towing. Towing companies that utilize the hook-and-chain method attach a chain to the tire rack beneath the car and tow it at an angle to its destination. This towing method may not be the soundest, since there's the possibility that the tire rack will be damaged during transit, which could knock the tires out of alignment.
Flatbed towing may be a better choice because it eliminates the need to attach anything under the car. Instead, the car's tires settle into the grooves on the back of the tow truck and are locked into place. An added benefit is that the entire car is level during the towing process, which decreases the chance that your vehicle will sustain any body damage.
Lock In A Flat Rate
Price is all important when it comes to towing. You don't want to have your car towed, only to find that you're stuck with a massive bill that you didn't expect.
Locking in a flat rate is the best way to avoid this. Seek out a towing company that charges a flat rate, versus pay-per-mile. Be sure to ask exactly what the flat rate includes, as well as about whether or not there will be any residual gas or manpower surcharges.
Getting the right tow truck service doesn't have to be difficult if you know what to do. The next time your vehicle needs to be towed, remember these tips so you can make a satisfactory selection.
Share