Whether you’ve had an accident or are on the motorway with a flat tire, or if your vehicle is broken down and needs help getting back on its feet, which towing service you call makes all the difference. In Canada, the right tow company can get you back on the road quickly, safely, and affordably.
This article looks at the important aspects of tow companies, what they offer, and how to find the right towing service in your area. It also gives an overview of the major services provided by towing companies, while dispelling common misconceptions about towing. Finally, it offers four great tips to make sure you get the best possible towing assistance next time something goes wrong.
What Are Tow Companies?
Tow companies are specialized businesses that provide services for vehicles that have broken down, been in accidents, or need to be transported from one location to another. Tow companies use tow trucks to transport vehicles and offer a range of other services as well: roadside assistance, tire changes, battery boosts, and lockout services.
In Canada, tow companies are available 24/7 for all roadside emergencies, providing a reliable and professional service at any time of the day or night. Whether you need a towing service for an emergency or want to move your car across town, tow companies are an essential service for all drivers.
Types Of Tow Trucks Used By Tow Companies
There are several types of tow trucks used by tow companies to transport vehicles. The type of truck used depends on the situation and what kind of vehicle is being towed. Some common types of tow trucks include:
Flatbed Tow Truck
A flatbed tow truck is one of the most popular types of trucks used by tow companies. This truck features a large, flat platform that tilts or lowers to allow the vehicle to be loaded upon it. Such a type of towing is ideal for transporting luxury cars, sports cars, or vehicles that cannot be driven. The flatbed truck ensures that the vehicle is securely loaded and transported without causing any damage.
However, the system can cause damage to the vehicle, especially the undercarriage. Thus, it is not used as commonly today.
Hook And Chain Tow Trucks
Hook and chain tow trucks are one of the oldest kinds of tow trucks in use today.
Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks
Wheel-lift tow trucks are like hook-and-chain trucks, only they use a hydraulic lift to raise the vehicle by its wheels instead of using a hook. This method is less likely to cause damage to the vehicle and is often used for towing cars involved in accidents.
Integrated Tow Trucks
Integrated tow trucks are designed for heavy-duty towing and are often used to tow large vehicles such as trucks, buses, or RVs. These trucks have additional lifting equipment that allows them to transport heavy and large vehicles safely and efficiently.
A Tow Company Offers A Wide Range Of Services
A tow company offers a wide range of services to help drivers in need. Some of the most common services offered by tow companies include:
Roadside Assistance
You can get roadside assistance from many tow companies. This service offers help to drivers who are having problems while driving. This kind of help may include flat tires, dead batteries, or lockouts. Roadside assistance can quickly resolve such problems, allowing drivers to get back on the road without needing a tow.
Jump Starts And Battery Boosts
If your car’s battery dies, a towing company can send someone over to jump-start it. They have the equipment and expertise needed for safe battery boosting so that your car can run again.
Tire Changes
Anyone can suffer from a flat tire, and if you get one, a towing company can assist with replacing the tire. If you are not able to change your tire, the towing employees will come out to wherever your car is (usually in an hour or less) and put the spare on for you.
Fuel Delivery
Running out of gas is a problem faced by many drivers, but quite a few tow companies now offer fuel delivery services. If you are stranded without fuel, call the tow truck company closest to you, and they will bring enough gas to get you moving.
Lockout Services
It’s incredibly frustrating to find yourself locked out of your car, but many tow companies extend these services. They can unlock your car quickly and safely without causing any damage.
Accident Recovery
If you have been in an accident, tow companies offer accident recovery services for your convenience. They will tow your vehicle back to a repair shop or pick a location where the service is required. In some cases, they may arrive with special equipment for more complex recoveries.
How To Choose The Right Tow Company
When selecting a tow company, it is important to take into account a number of factors to make sure you get the best service possible. Here are some key pointers that will help guide you on your quest for the right towing service.
Service “Round The Clock”
Accidents happen at all hours of the day or night. You need to select a company that can pick up the phone 24/7 whenever it comes time for you to call them in and get help.
Reputation And Reviews
Before hiring a tow company, take a moment to read the reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Valid companies are accompanied by positive feedback from others who have tried their services in the past; by contrast, bad reviews suggest that maybe they will not be offering anything of value to us either.
Cheap Low Price
Of course, you want good service, but at the same time, a tow company must offer competitive and transparent prices. Look for one that gives clear estimates upfront so you don’t have to get surprises once your flat tire is changed, or worse, ten minutes only after coming home from delivering fuel.
Diverse Service
Seek out a towing company that offers a variety of services. Not only will this save you time and make your day go much smoother, but should there be an unexpected problem in the future, you know who to come to for help.
Quick Response
If you are completely stuck, you want help to arrive as quickly as possible. So order a fast-response tow company right now and wait for that assurance that things will be right soon!
Common Misconceptions About Tow Companies
There are claims about tow companies that may cause drivers to feel confused. Some of the most frequent myths are as follows:
Tow Companies Only Take Vehicles
Most companies offer a wide range of services in addition to towing, the main service they provide, ranging from roadside assistance and tire changes to carrying gasoline for you when you run out, followed by recovering accidents at sea. These additional services can be a real lifesaver in an emergency.
Tow Companies Are Always Expensive
Many people believe tow companies require a large sum for their labour; however, that is not always the case. There is economical towing, good to pay for that, it also has good value. Be sure to inquire with them in advance to avoid surprises.
Tow Companies Will Take Your Vehicle Anywhere
Some drivers are curious, “Can tow companies go anywhere with my car?” However, whether or not a tow company can take a specific vehicle somewhere depends on that company’s policies. Prior to taking the service, make sure you clarify your desired destination with the one who does your towing.
Conclusion
It is very important to choose the right tow company. When you are in need of emergency services, taking factors such as reputation, price structure, range of services, and time sensitivity all into account will guarantee that you can receive high-quality treatment no matter what your situation. Providing vital assistance to motorists, tow companies in Canada help to get cars back on the road quickly and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If I Break Down On The Highway?
If your car breaks down on the highway, remain calm and move your vehicle to a safe location if possible (Turn on the hazard lights so drivers will avoid crashing into you). Then, call the nearest tow operation. Many tow companies provide roadside assistance, which can help you in the event of flat tires, dead batteries, or fuel delivery.
How Much Does It Cost For Towing Services?
Towing costs are determined by factors such as mileage, the kind of vehicle, and time. It is best to ask in advance so you have an idea of how much it will cost. Many tow companies offer affordable towing options.
Do Tow Companies Levy Additional Fees On Account Of Emergency Towing?
For emergency towing of cars, some tow companies will charge extra, especially after off-hours or public holidays. Find out about any additional costs before availing of this service.
Will I Need A Tow Company For Long-Distance Towing?
Yes, quite a few of them do offer long-distance towing as a service. If you are transferring your vehicle from where it now stands to somewhere else altogether different in another province, then by means of contacting one of these tow companies, they can inform you about their long-distance moving price ranges and what options they offer for such services.
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