Everyone has needed a tow truck at some point or another. Whether it was a flat tire and a missing spare or a fender bender, tow trucks have helped us all out of a jamb by safely transporting our vehicle to a repair shop. But many people don’t realize that towing companies offer more than just a lift when your car is disabled. From roadside assistance to flat-bed towing, your local towing provider offers a several helpful services.

Emergency Roadside Assistance Services

In addition to tow truck services, most towing companies provide complete roadside assistance. Many offer 24-hour help, so in the middle of the night-when roadside assistance is most important-they’ll be there to lend a hand. From changing flats to jump-starting your vehicle, tow companies offer assistance even when you don’t need the tow truck itself! Roadside assistance from your local towing service can help reduce your anxiety during stressful roadside breakdowns as well as help keep you safe. For those minor emergencies when your vehicle is temporarily out of action, they’ll get your car going again and get you back on the road. Emergency roadside assistance services are generally designed to help drivers with common problems like:

• Flat tires
• Empty gas tanks
• Dead batteries
• Lock outs

Flatbed Towing Services

While you may be familiar with the use of a flatbed tow truck for transporting damaged vehicles, you might not realize that they are also used for hauling equipment and large loads. Many towing companies provide flatbed towing services for small storage containers, industrial equipment, tractors and farm equipment, walk-in refrigerators, and other loads too large for easy transportation. Generally available for cross-town trips as well as long distances, flatbed hauling can be a great solution for your hard-to-transport equipment. And, for added peace of mind, don’t forget that the tow truck driver has the skills and tools to safely and easily load and transport your freight for problem-free transportation!

While most people automatically associate towing companies with damaged vehicles, these businesses also offer other convenient and helpful services. The next time you think of towing companies, don’t forget that they also offer roadside assistance and flatbed towing. Now you know who to call when you need either of these services!

When you need a tow truck, it’s important to only use a professional, reputable service. Incorrectly secured vehicles can be damaged in transport, creating problems for you down the line. If you need the services of a tow truck, the likelihood is you’re already having a bad day-don’t let a dreadful towing experience make it even worse.

Flatbed Towing

Car manufacturers recommend flatbed towing for many newer vehicles, in order to prevent damage to their power train, shocks, and other components. While some fly-by-night companies will tow any vehicle in the easiest possible way, a qualified tow truck driver will know if your vehicle needs to be transported on a flatbed. When you call the towing company, be sure to tell them what kind of vehicle you drive and ask if it needs to go on a flatbed.

Proper Securing

To ensure your vehicle doesn’t fall off a flatbed tow truck, it needs to be secured at all four points. Some companies use new style wheel chains to secure the tires themselves to the bed, but most use traditional hooks and chains. Disreputable companies will hook the car down by the most convenient point, regardless of whether it’s safe to attach an anchor there. Reputable towing companies will always take the time to ensure that each chain is correctly attached and your vehicle is properly secured. It does take several minutes longer, but chaining down your vehicle properly is crucial to ensure it is secure and will not be damaged in transport.

Uniform Tension

Even if your car or truck seems to be properly secured on a flatbed tow truck, the 4-point tie down system can actually be causing damage if not tightened correctly. Uneven pressure can twist the frame of your vehicle, so be sure that your tow truck driver distributes the chain tension equally when securing your vehicle.

By keeping an eye out for these towing problems, you should be able to avoid damage to your vehicle. Don’t forget, if you have any questions, just ask! Any reputable tow truck company or driver will take the time to address your concerns and explain their processes and safety precautions. And, you’ll be able to rest assured knowing that your vehicle is in good hands.