There are a number of reasons you may need to call a tow truck. Most of the time they are dispatched to help clear semi-truck accidents or to straighten jackknifed trucks.

They can also be called to transport inoperable cars to their owners or auto shops for repair. They are usually flatbed trucks or wheel-lift tow trucks that cause less car damage than hook and chains.

1. Accidents

Whether they are acting as heroes for those with an inoperable vehicle or villains for those being towed without warning, tow trucks are a common sight on the road. Unfortunately, they can also be the cause of accidents.

Like all drivers, tow truck drivers can get distracted or tired while on the job. When they do, it can lead to a serious accident. Depending on the extent of the damage and any injuries, the costs can be astronomical. Even if you have auto or health insurance, you may reach your benefits limits or find that you can’t afford to pay the deductible. In those cases, a tow truck can come in handy. It can help you figure out how to proceed with the insurance company.

2. Breakdowns

One of the most common reasons to call a tow truck is because of a breakdown. If you’re on a busy highway and your car starts to break down, it can be scary and confusing.

A tow truck can help you get back on the road quickly and safely. They can also transport your car to a garage or other location.

If your car breaks down, you should pull into the breakdown lane and call roadside assistance. These services can provide jumper cables, give you a fuel boost, or unlock your vehicle if you’ve locked your keys inside. They can even tow your vehicle away if necessary, browse around here.

3. Mechanical Issues

If you’re involved in a car accident and the vehicle isn’t safe to drive, a tow truck should be called. The tow truck driver will remove the car and transport it to an auto repair shop or collision center.

Even if you aren’t in an accident, you should call a tow truck if your tire or wheel is damaged. A flat tire can cause you to lose control and crash. A tow truck will replace the tire and get you on your way.

A mechanical breakdown can occur at any time. If it’s late at night or you are on a busy highway and your car breaks down, pulling over and calling a tow truck is the safest option. Tow trucks can jumpstart your car and help you find a mechanic for repairs.

4. Stolen Vehicles

Losing your car to theft is devastating. It’s also expensive, requiring you to file an insurance claim. Most insurers have a waiting period of 30 days before they accept your vehicle as a loss and will reimburse you the fair market value, minus your deductible. You’ll need to have a third-party assessment, and any non-permanent additions (MP3 players plugged into the auxiliary ports) should be noted.

Conclusion:

Police will run your license plate and VIN through databases and attempt to contact you or the registered owner of the vehicle. If they can’t, the vehicle will be taken to the impound lot, where you could end up paying hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in fees. Some communities have started a statewide victims’ impound fund to help with this expense.