Let’s be real—no one ever plans for their car to break down. But when it does, staying cool and knowing what to do can save you a whole lot of stress. Whether you’re stuck in the fast lane of a busy highway or stranded on a small side street, taking the right steps can keep you safe and make getting your car towed a breeze.
Here’s a quick guide to help you handle a breakdown like a pro, including when it’s time to call in the towing experts!
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The moment you realize something is wrong with your car, it’s natural to feel a bit (or a lot) of panic. However, it’s important to remain calm so you can make clear, safe decisions. Start by assessing your surroundings and the condition of your vehicle.
- Is your car smoking or making weird noises?
- Are you in a safe location or in heavy traffic?
Answering these questions will help determine your next steps, whether it’s moving your car to a safer spot or getting immediate help.
2. Prioritize Safety & Make Your Car Visible
If possible, steer your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Ideally, move to the shoulder or an emergency lane if you’re on a highway. If you’re in a less-trafficked area, pulling into a nearby parking lot or side street can be safer.
If you cannot move your car safely, do not and just call for help.
Also, ensure to:
- Stay inside the car, stay put and wait for help.
- If you must exit the vehicle, do so with caution.
- Turn on your hazards and make your car visible (pop your hood, wear a vest if you have it, prop cones if you have it).
4. Call for Help
If the problem with your car can’t be fixed on the spot, it’s time to call a professional towing service or roadside assistance if you have it.
At Mundie’s Towing, we recommend calling as soon as you’re safely off the road, particularly if:
- Your car won’t start
- You have a flat tire but no spare or tools
- You smell gas or see smoke
- The vehicle has sustained damage that makes it undrivable
When you call for towing services, be prepared to provide clear information about your location and the nature of the issue.
If you feel comfortable and need support, it may be best to call a family member or friend who can help you stay calm and get the things you need to do done.
If this is an emergency situation, the best thing to do is to stop and just call 911.
5. What to Expect When a Tow Truck Arrives
Once you’ve contacted a towing company, stay with your vehicle if it’s safe to do so. When the tow truck arrives, the driver will assess the situation, explain the best towing method for your car, and safely transport your vehicle to a repair facility or your desired location.
If you’re travelling with others, such as family members or pets, make sure to mention this when calling for the tow. The towing company will advise on whether they can accommodate passengers or help you arrange alternate transportation.
6. Towing Tips: What to Know & Ask
To make the towing process as smooth as possible, keep these tips in mind:
- Have your vehicle’s documentation handy, including your insurance information and driver’s license.
- Remove valuables from your car before it’s towed, including anything of sentimental value.
- Stay informed about where your vehicle is being towed and the estimated time of arrival at the repair shop.
7. Prepare for the Unexpected
Keep the following essentials in your car to ensure you’re ready for any roadside situation:
- Spare tire and jack
- Jumper cables
- First-aid kit
- Reflective gear or flares
- Phone charger or backup battery pack
- Mundie’s Towing phone number saved on your phone (604) 526-9677
These simple items can make a big difference when you’re stuck on the side of the road.
Avoid These Common Towing Mistakes
When your car breaks down, it’s easy to make decisions in haste. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t rely on strangers for help with towing your vehicle. While people often have good intentions, an untrained person can inadvertently cause more damage to your car.
- Don’t attempt to tow your car with another vehicle unless you’re properly equipped to do so. Using improper methods can damage your vehicle and increase the risk of accidents.
When you need professional, reliable towing services, Mundie’s Towing is here to help. With decades of experience serving the Greater Vancouver area, we know how to handle breakdowns with care and efficiency. Our team is available 24/7, ensuring that you’re never left stranded, no matter the time of day.