Whether you’ve broken down in the middle of nowhere, had a minor accident, or your boat trailer has a flat, calling a towing service can sometimes be the only way to get back on track. But how do you know when it’s time to call in the professionals? And what exactly should you expect when they arrive?
Table of Contents
When Should You Use a Towing Service?
1. Car Breakdown
Picture this: you’re driving on a long stretch of road when your car suddenly starts making strange noises, the engine cuts out, or a warning light flashes on the dashboard. Maybe you’ve had a flat tyre, or worse, the engine’s overheating. In situations like this, trying to keep driving can cause further damage and even be dangerous. Professional towing Newcastle can safely take your car to a mechanic without risking more harm.
2. After an Accident
Accidents happen, and whether it’s a fender bender or something more serious, your vehicle may no longer be safe to drive. It’s always better to have a damaged car towed than attempt to drive it with broken lights, bent axles, or damaged tyres. Tow services are well-equipped to safely move your car without causing further damage, giving you time to assess the situation.
3. Flat Tyre Without a Spare
You might be able to change a flat tyre yourself, but what if you don’t have a spare, or your spare tyre is also flat? Worse still, what if you’re stuck on a highway or in an unsafe location? Rather than struggling on your own, calling a towing service can ensure your car and you are taken to a safe place where the tyre can be repaired or replaced.
4. Car Won’t Start
Imagine this: you’re ready to head home after a long day, but your car simply won’t start. Maybe it’s a dead battery, or something more serious. A towing service can either jump-start your car or take it to a garage where it can be fixed.
5. Towing Heavy Loads (Boats, Trailers, Caravans)
While towing a boat or caravan on your own might seem like a manageable task, it’s not always as straightforward as it seems. If you’re facing bad weather, unfamiliar roads, or an overloaded trailer, it might be better to have a professional towing service handle it. They have the equipment and experience to transport heavy loads safely, saving you the hassle and potential damage.
Benefits of Using a Towing Service
Now, why should you opt for a professional towing service instead of handling things yourself? Here are a few reasons why making that call is often the better choice:
- Safety
When your vehicle breaks down or you’ve had an accident, your top priority is safety. Trying to move a damaged or non-functional vehicle can be risky, especially in high-traffic areas or on highways. Towing services are trained to handle these situations safely and efficiently. They’ll ensure your vehicle is moved without risking further damage or putting you or other road users in harm’s way. - Convenience
Think about the time and effort involved in arranging a friend with a trailer or fixing your vehicle on the spot. Towing services are available 24/7, meaning help is just a phone call away, no matter where you are. They have the tools, knowledge, and equipment to get your car off the road quickly, which is a massive convenience, especially in stressful situations. - Avoid Further Damage
Trying to drive a damaged vehicle or attempting to tow it yourself with improper equipment can result in more harm than good. A professional tow truck will lift your car securely and transport it without causing additional damage, whether it’s mechanical, cosmetic, or structural. - Variety of Services
Towing services do a lot more than just move your car from one place to another. Many companies offer roadside assistance, including jump-starting batteries, changing tyres, and delivering fuel. Some even specialise in towing boats or caravans, making them a go-to solution for moving large vehicles or heavy loads. - Insurance and Peace of Mind
Did you know that many insurance policies cover towing services? If you’re in an accident or have a breakdown, your insurer may reimburse the cost of towing. Beyond that, there’s peace of mind in knowing a professional is handling your situation. There’s no need to stress about finding help or worrying if your car will be safely transported.
Different Types of Tow Trucks
Not all towing services are the same, and depending on the situation, different types of tow trucks might be used. Here’s a breakdown of the common types of tow trucks you might come across:
Flatbed Tow Trucks
These are ideal for damaged vehicles or transporting cars over longer distances. The vehicle is lifted entirely off the ground onto the flatbed, preventing wear and tear during transportation.
Hook and Chain Tow Trucks
This type is more old-school and is generally used for cars that are completely undriveable. The hook-and-chain method lifts the front or rear of the vehicle, but it can cause some wear on the car, so it’s used less frequently nowadays.
Wheel Lift Tow Trucks
These trucks are great for short-distance towing and urban environments. They use a metal yoke to lift the car by the wheels, providing a safe and efficient way to tow a vehicle without risking further damage.
Heavy-Duty Tow Trucks
If you’re towing a boat, caravan, or other heavy load, a heavy-duty tow truck is your best bet. These trucks have the capacity to move larger vehicles and loads, making them perfect for bigger jobs.
Final Thoughts
Needing a towing service isn’t something anyone looks forward to, but when you’re stuck on the side of the road or your car won’t start, they can be lifesavers. From safely moving your vehicle after an accident to getting your boat across town, professional tow truck operators are skilled in ensuring your vehicle gets where it needs to go without causing any extra hassle.