If you get into a collision or your vehicle breaks down on the side of the road, this can be quite a traumatic and stressful experience. In times of crisis, when adrenaline is flowing, we can go somewhat blank on what steps need to be taken. It’s particularly important to ensure you and your vehicle are safe. The good news? We have compiled a comprehensive list of steps you will need to take if you find yourself in the sticky situation of requiring to have your vehicle towed.
So what do you need to do when you need towing in Moranbah or surrounding areas? First and foremost, take a deep breath, calm your heart rate, and check you are pulled over in a safe location. Put your hazard lights on, your park lights are also a great idea if it’s dark (this is of course if they are working). Exit your car on the opposite side away from the traffic. You are then going to want to follow these next steps:
1. Call your insurance company first
Always keep your insurance company’s assistant phone number in an easy to find location, as you never know when it will be needed. It’s always a good idea to keep a copy in your vehicle, and in your phone address book just in case your phone doesn’t survive the collision and you need to borrow someone else’s. Your insurance company may have a preferred repair facility/ tower and may even arrange this all for you, so it is best to check with them first. You will need to give your insurance all the other relevant details of the collision/ break down at this time as well.
2. Determine if your vehicle needs a tow
Once you are in a safe location and have spoken to your insurance company you can assess if your vehicle needs a tow or not.
Your insurance company may step you through these checks, however, if they are unreachable, there are a few things to look out for:
- Is the vehicle free of any visible fluid leaks?
- Are headlights and taillights still functioning as normal?
- Are all the mirrors intact?
- Does the vehicle maneuverability feel normal (power steering, braking etc.)?
- Is your hood able to close securely?
- No signs of your airbags deploying?
- No damage to any of your wheels?
You should be able to answer yes to all of the above questions. However, if you have any shadow of a doubt, it is best to have the vehicle towed to risk further damage to the vehicle, or possibly another accident. Something else to consider is if you are in a state to safely drive your vehicle to your final destination.
3. Call a tow truck
Calling a tow truck company is the most important, and probably obvious, step to this article. Call your local tow truck company! If you are in Moranbah or any of the surrounding areas please contact Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical, we will be happy to assist you. With our modern Isuzu tow truck, we have the ability to tow two vehicles at the same time, which is something to keep in mind in the event of a collision.
4. Prepare your vehicle for towing
With the tow truck on its way to your rescue, it is time to prepare your vehicle for towing. Take photos of the scene and your vehicle. This can be used for your insurance claims. Remove any valuables from your vehicle, particularly items of sentimental value that you would like to keep on your person.
5. Make sure the tow truck that arrives is the one you called
Although it is unlikely, another tow truck may be passing by and see an opportunity for new work. Ensure the company that arrives, matches the one you called! If you haven’t even called the tow truck yet, and one turns up, this can be a red flag. Proceed with caution!
6. Tell your driver where you would like your vehicle towed
In most cases, you will be able to have your vehicle towed to whatever address you provide. In some cases, however, the police may order the vehicle to be towed to a specific location, such as straight to a mechanical workshop.
7. Keep the receipts & document all provided information
Take note of everything your tow truck driver says. As you may be a little flustered from the whole experience, take notes in your phone of all the things you need to remember. This may be the mechanical workshop it is being towed to, their contact details, and what you need to do next. Keep the receipts from the tow truck provider, as your insurance will want copies to reimburse you if it is covered in your policy.
Do you need towing in Moranbah or the surrounding areas? Contact Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical today!
