It can be tempting to try a do-it-yourself approach when you experience vehicle issues. Smart motorists carry emergency kits filled with nonperishable food items, water bottles, basic tools, blankets, first aid gear, analog maps, a spare tire, jumper cables, pressure gauges, AA and AAA batteries, phone chargers, and more. Those items might make them feel like they’re ready to tackle anything when they hit a bump in their travels, but sometimes it’s better — and safer — to call a professional.
Here’s a quick guide to knowing when it might be time to reach out to your trusted towing services provider rather than fight through a problem on your own.
Assessing Your Situation and Needs
Safety is the most important thing to consider when deciding if it’s time to call a tow, and that applies to yours as well as that of your passengers. Ask yourself the following:
- Is my vehicle broken down in a place that is safe for me to exit, assess any damage, and fix what’s wrong?
- Is the problem something that is easily fixable, such as running out of gas or changing a flat tire?
- Is the time of day conducive to safety? Is it light enough outside that other motorists can see me as I’m working?
- Are the weather conditions conducive to safety? Is it warm or cool enough that I am not at risk of freezing or heatstroke?
If the answer to any of those questions is no, or if you’re incapacitated in any way, it’s best to call in the professionals. Carry your trusted towing services provider’s contact information in your cell phone as well as in hard copy in your emergency kit so you’ll know where to find it should the need arise.
When to Call a Towing Services Professional
Several instances require a tow, so giving your preferred group a call as quickly as possible will have you out of trouble or back on the road in no time. Rather than trying to battle the problem on your own, work with a trusted provider if:
- Your vehicle breaks down on a busy road or in an unsafe neighborhood.
- It is dark outside or the road conditions have made it too difficult for you to safely assess and mitigate the problem.
- The weather is too hot or cold, making it potentially hazardous to wait outside or inside your vehicle for too long.
- Your vehicle is generally unsafe, either due to engine issues, position on the road, or some other problem.
- Your spare tire is flat (Side note, it’s best to check spare tire pressure once per quarter to ensure it’s ready for an emergency).
- You’re experiencing bad weather, like a thunderstorm, heavy rain or icy conditions, which would prevent you from being able to safely assess and fix a problem.
If you’re experiencing a problem you can’t remedy on your own, call your trusted towing services professionals near you to come and help you out. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to protecting yourself and your passengers!