Like almost everyone else, you've undoubtedly had your vehicle refuse to run at a most inconvenient time. If you find yourself stranded by the side of the road, you may be tempted to tow the vehicle yourself or call on a friend or relative for help. You should realize that towing your own vehicle can lead to serious problems.
Fundamentals
If you are inexperienced at towing, you can easily make some basic mistakes. If you fail to put your car in neutral, you can cause damage to your brakes, gear shift, wheels, and transmission. Also, remember that some states have laws against
Realize that you should not tow another vehicle on the freeway using only a rope. Some states require that you use a "rigid structure" that attaches to the towing vehicle. If you are determined to tow your own car, consider investing in a tow strap. Make certain it is firmly affixed to the tow vehicle, which must have enough power to easily move the disabled one. If you are doing the towing, drive forward to remove any "slack" on the tow strap, otherwise you may yank off a bumper or cause other damage to the towed car or truck.
If you cause an accident while towing your car, you could face some serious liability issues, particularly if you do not follow your state's traffic laws.
Towing Insurance
Before you try towing your own vehicle, check your insurance policy to see if you have towing insurance that will pay for the cost of a professional tow. If you do not, consider adding it to your policy. You can also join an auto club for a reasonable yearly fee. These memberships include roadside assistance. Even without insurance or a membership, you will only pay approximately $35 - $100 per local tow. Considering the damage you can cause your vehicle by doing-it-yourself, the investment is well worth it.
You may be tempted to tow your own disabled vehicle, but be aware that you can easily cause it more damage if you do not know what you are doing. You need to get the proper materials, including a towing strap, and correctly attach them. Do not carry passengers in the towed car and remove all slack between the two vehicles before hitting the road. Your best choice is to call a professional auto towing service, however. The fees are reasonable and may be covered by insurance. Plus, your vehicle will be in excellent hands.
Share8 October 2015
Owning a 4-wheel-drive SUV comes with more expense and doing things a bit differently. When you put tires on your 4-wheel-drive vehicle, you will have to replace all four at once. The tread-wear must be even to protect the 4-wheel-drive elements of the vehicle. When you have a 4-wheel-drive vehicle towed, you cannot simply hook it up to any tow truck and have it delivered to your local mechanic's shop. This blog will show you what needs to be done when your 4-wheel-drive vehicle needs towed and the other differences of owning a vehicle that goes beyond the basic 2-wheel-drive.