Being stranded on the side of the road with a car that refuses to budge is an experience that no one wants to go through. Whether it’s a flat tire, a mechanical failure, or a dead battery, a non-drivable car can leave you feeling helpless. But don’t worry, there’s help available. Knowing how to request towing assistance is essential for every driver, and in this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to take when your car is no longer drivable.
United Towing Service Inc.
26170 Adams Ave, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA
1. Stay Calm and Safe
The first thing to do when your car becomes non-drivable is to stay calm. Panic won’t help you resolve the situation, and it’s important to think clearly. Your safety is the top priority. Move your vehicle to the safest location possible, away from traffic, and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
If you are on a highway or busy road, it’s a good idea to stay inside the vehicle, especially if it’s unsafe to exit. If you have a roadside emergency kit, use it to help signal for help. The last thing you want is to be stuck in an unsafe position while waiting for assistance.
J & J Towing
4560 N Webster Ave, Perris, CA 92571, USA
2. Assess the Situation
Before calling for a tow truck, take a moment to assess the situation. If you’re dealing with a flat tire, dead battery, or any other issue that might be fixable on the spot, you could try troubleshooting the problem yourself or with the help of a nearby roadside assistance service. However, if the problem is more serious—like engine failure or transmission issues—it’s time to call for a tow.
Once you’ve determined that your car is indeed non-drivable, it's time to move on to the next step: requesting towing assistance.
3. Choosing the Right Towing Service
There are various types of towing services available, and selecting the right one can make a significant difference in how quickly and efficiently your car is removed from the roadside. Here are a few factors to consider:
Emergency Towing vs. Non-Emergency Towing
If your car is in an unsafe location or blocking traffic, you'll need emergency towing. This service is available 24/7 and can be crucial if you're in a potentially dangerous spot. On the other hand, if you’re in a less urgent situation, such as a minor mechanical issue at home or work, you can request non-emergency towing at a later time.
Flatbed vs. Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks
When you request towing assistance, the type of tow truck that will be used depends on your car’s condition and what’s required for the job. Flatbed tow trucks are ideal for vehicles with severe damage or those that need to be transported without putting any additional strain on their suspension. Wheel-lift trucks are more commonly used for vehicles that are still in working condition and only need to be moved a short distance.
Cost and Coverage
Before you call for a tow, check if your car insurance policy or roadside assistance package covers towing costs. Many insurance policies offer free towing up to a certain distance, and some may even cover the full cost of the tow. However, if you don’t have coverage, you’ll need to pay out of pocket. Make sure to ask about pricing upfront, especially if you need to go a long distance or if it’s after hours, as rates can increase during peak times.
4. How to Request Towing Assistance
Once you’ve decided on the right towing service, it’s time to make the call. Here’s what you’ll need to provide:
Your Location
Clearly state your exact location. If you’re on a highway, provide mile markers or nearby exits. If you're in a parking lot or residential area, provide the address or notable landmarks. Some towing companies have GPS technology that can help them pinpoint your location, but always confirm that they have accurate directions to avoid delays.
Vehicle Information
Be ready to provide information about your car, such as its make, model, year, and color. If possible, have the car’s license plate number and VIN (vehicle identification number) handy. This information will help the tow truck driver locate your vehicle quickly and ensure they bring the appropriate equipment.
Description of the Problem
Explain the issue your car is facing, whether it’s a mechanical failure, flat tire, or engine trouble. The more details you can give, the better prepared the tow company will be to handle the situation. If your car is leaking fluids or appears to have a more serious issue, be sure to mention that as well.
After you’ve provided this information, the towing company will give you an estimated arrival time. In some cases, they may be able to give you a rough price estimate for the tow as well.
5. Special Considerations for Non-Drivable Cars
When you have a non-drivable car, it’s essential to ensure that the tow company can handle the specific needs of your vehicle. For example, if your car has sustained severe damage or is inoperable due to an accident, the tow company may need to send a heavy-duty tow truck or a specialized vehicle to transport your car safely.
Another consideration is whether your car is stuck in a difficult location. If your car is stuck in mud, snow, or a tight space, the tow company may need to employ additional equipment, like a winch, to pull your vehicle out. This could add extra time to the towing process, so be sure to mention any complications when you call for assistance.
6. Dealing with Roadside Assistance Programs
If you have a roadside assistance plan with a service provider like AAA, you may be able to get your car towed for little or no additional cost. These services typically cover towing up to a certain distance, so it’s important to check your coverage limits before requesting a tow. Roadside assistance programs often have established partnerships with local towing companies, meaning help can be on the way faster than you expect.
Many roadside assistance plans also provide additional services like fuel delivery, battery jump-starts, and lockout assistance, so it’s a good idea to keep the number for your service provider handy in case of an emergency.
7. After the Tow: What Happens Next?
Once the tow truck arrives, the driver will load your vehicle onto the truck and transport it to the location of your choice—whether it's your home, a mechanic’s shop, or a body shop. Make sure you’ve made arrangements for where your car will be taken, as some towing companies have a specific destination in mind if you don’t provide one.
In my personal experience, I had a situation where my car broke down unexpectedly, and I needed to have it towed to the nearest repair shop. The tow truck arrived quickly, and the driver was professional, helping me feel at ease despite the stressful situation. They took my car to a trusted mechanic, where it was promptly repaired and ready for use again.
If you’re ever in doubt about the towing process or if you’re dealing with a complex situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to a towing company like Rescue & Towing for assistance. Their team of professionals can help guide you through the process, from the moment your car breaks down to the safe delivery of your vehicle to its next destination.
