How to Handle Towing Assistance for Accidents on Highways: What You Need to Know

Car Towing Assistance for Accidents on Highways: What You Need to Know

It’s every driver’s nightmare—a sudden accident on the highway. One moment you're cruising along, and the next, you're facing the aftermath of a crash. Whether it's a minor fender bender or a more severe collision, dealing with the consequences of an accident can be overwhelming, especially when you're stranded on a busy highway. What makes it even more daunting is the question of what to do next: how do you handle the towing, the vehicle recovery, and get the situation resolved quickly and safely? I’ve been in this exact position, and let me tell you, having the right towing assistance can make all the difference when you're caught in the aftermath of an accident on the highway.

united towing
United Towing Service Inc.

26170 Adams Ave, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA

1. Why Towing Assistance is Critical After a Highway Accident

Highway accidents, even minor ones, create a host of problems. Aside from the physical damage to the vehicle, there are safety concerns, traffic disruptions, and potential legal issues. This is where towing assistance becomes crucial. Let me walk you through some of the reasons why towing assistance is essential in the aftermath of an accident:

• Immediate Vehicle Removal: One of the first things you’ll need after an accident is to get your car off the highway to prevent further accidents. In many cases, vehicles involved in accidents cannot be safely driven. Whether due to severe damage or simply being stuck in an awkward position, towing assistance ensures that your vehicle is removed quickly and safely.
• Safety and Traffic Control: Having a tow truck arrive on the scene can help control traffic flow and keep you, your passengers, and other drivers safe. In some cases, your vehicle may be blocking a lane or making it difficult for other drivers to pass. A tow truck can quickly clear the scene, helping to prevent further accidents.
• Accident Recovery: For more serious accidents, the vehicle might need specialized recovery services. Tow trucks are equipped to handle different types of accidents, whether that involves a car that's overturned, stuck in a ditch, or involved in a multi-vehicle pileup. Professional towing services can assist with these challenging situations.

2. How to Access Towing Assistance After an Accident on the Highway

When you're involved in an accident on the highway, your first priority is to ensure safety. After you've moved to a safe location (if possible) and called emergency services, it's time to think about towing. Here's how you can go about accessing towing assistance in the event of a highway accident:

j and j towing
J & J Towing

4560 N Webster Ave, Perris, CA 92571, USA

Step 1: Call Emergency Services

Regardless of the severity of the accident, always call 911 or local emergency services. They will not only dispatch police, but they will also send emergency medical teams if necessary. The police will help document the accident and may also coordinate the arrival of towing services. In some cases, the police can direct you to the nearest tow company or recommend an emergency towing service to help clear the scene.

Step 2: Notify Your Insurance Company

If you have roadside assistance coverage or towing assistance as part of your insurance policy, you should notify your insurance company immediately. They often have partnerships with local tow companies and can help arrange for towing services quickly. Many insurers provide a 24/7 hotline, so you can call and let them know you’ve been involved in an accident and need immediate assistance.

Step 3: Call a Tow Truck Service

If you don't have insurance that covers towing, or if you're looking for quicker assistance, you may need to call a tow truck service directly. Many towing companies offer emergency roadside assistance, and some specialize in accident recovery. It’s best to choose a company with experience in dealing with highway accidents, as they will be better equipped to handle the challenges of towing in these dangerous conditions.

3. Types of Towing Assistance for Highway Accidents

Not all accidents are the same, and not all towing services are equipped to handle every type of situation. Depending on the nature of the accident, you may require specific types of towing assistance. Here are some of the most common services provided by towing companies after an accident:

Flatbed Tow Trucks

Flatbed tow trucks are often the preferred method for towing vehicles after an accident. These trucks are equipped with a large flat platform where the entire vehicle can be loaded onto the bed. This is especially useful when dealing with damaged vehicles that can’t be driven, or when the car has sustained significant damage that could make traditional wheel-lift towing unsafe. Flatbed trucks are ideal for transporting vehicles over long distances, which is especially important when the vehicle needs to be towed to a repair shop or storage facility.

Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks

Wheel-lift tow trucks are another common method for towing after an accident. These trucks are equipped with a hydraulic lift system that raises the front or rear of the car using the wheels. This type of towing is ideal for vehicles that are still relatively intact and can be safely lifted from one end. Wheel-lift towing is often quicker and more affordable than flatbed towing, but it’s not always suitable for heavily damaged cars.

Specialized Towing for Heavy Accidents

In more severe accidents, where vehicles are overturned, submerged, or have become trapped in ditches, you may require specialized accident recovery services. These services include the use of heavy-duty tow trucks and recovery vehicles designed to handle larger or more complex recovery situations. Whether it’s lifting a flipped vehicle or carefully removing a vehicle from a precarious position, recovery experts are trained to handle such situations safely and efficiently.

4. Real-Life Accident Recovery Experience

Let me share an experience I had that perfectly illustrates the importance of professional towing services after an accident on the highway. A few years ago, I was driving on a busy highway when I was involved in a minor collision with another vehicle. Thankfully, nobody was seriously hurt, but my car had sustained some damage and couldn’t be driven. I immediately pulled over to the shoulder, but the situation was still dangerous due to the heavy traffic.

After calling emergency services, the police arrived and helped secure the area. They called a tow truck service, and within 20 minutes, a flatbed truck arrived at the scene. The driver was calm, professional, and carefully loaded my vehicle onto the flatbed. The process was smooth, and the vehicle was quickly transported to a nearby auto body shop where I could assess the damage. The prompt and efficient towing service allowed me to stay safe, and I was back on the road in no time—thankfully, with minimal disruption to my day.

5. Tips for Handling Towing After an Accident on the Highway

Handling an accident on the highway can be a stressful experience, but knowing what to do can help make the process smoother. Here are some additional tips for dealing with towing assistance in the event of an accident:

• Stay Calm and Safe: After the accident, ensure that everyone is safe and that your vehicle is out of harm’s way, if possible. Always stay in your vehicle or move to a safe location away from traffic.
• Have Insurance Information Ready: Keep your insurance details handy so you can quickly notify your provider. If you have roadside assistance, they may cover the cost of towing.
• Check the Tow Company’s Reputation: If you’re calling a tow company independently, make sure to choose one with a good reputation. Look for companies that specialize in accident recovery and have experience working with highway incidents.
• Know the Tow Limits: Some towing companies have distance limits, so ensure that you’re aware of any restrictions regarding how far they will tow your vehicle.

Dealing with a car accident on the highway can be a terrifying experience, but having the right towing assistance in place can significantly reduce your stress. Whether you're relying on your insurance coverage or calling a tow truck directly, make sure you have reliable services ready to assist you in an emergency. Having a trusted towing service, like Example Tow Service, can help ensure you get the proper recovery assistance quickly, letting you focus on getting back to your routine.