Car troubles are rarely fun. However, with the proper knowledge and tools, they can be made a lot less stressful. In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to feel uncertain about your next steps. While it’s always a good idea to call a towing company for roadside assistance, you may be tempted to repair your vehicle yourself. While this can save you time and money, one thing you should never do is tinker with car issues if you don’t hold complete confidence in your abilities. Not only can this lead to more substantial auto issues, but it can also put you in danger. So, how are you supposed to know if you should call a tow truck company for roadside assistance, or fly solo with your roadside repairs? Here are some tips to distinguish between the two scenarios:
1. Where Did You Break Down?
What’s the environment like? Depending on the circumstances, some situations are safer than others to handle your own roadside repairs.
For example, if you’re stuck on the side of a busy highway at rush hour, calling a towing company is much better for your safety. The busier the road, the higher the risk, as oncoming traffic may not see you amongst the rush.
However, a quiet country road or low-traffic city street in the daytime can be a safe place for roadside repairs. Other drivers are more likely to spot you in a calm environment, making you more visible to oncoming traffic. The more visible you are to other drivers, the lower the risk of you getting hurt on the side of the road.
2. What’s the Problem?
The severity of the issue will determine whether calling a towing company in Vancouver is the best way to go. So, before you put on your “MacGyver” cap, evaluate the issue. Are you equipped to handle this specific case of roadside repairs? Do you have the experience to navigate them safely and efficiently?
Some roadside issues are more complex than others. For example, getting a flat tire is one of the most common forms of roadside assistance. While you can certainly call a towing company, you may be able to handle it yourself if you have the tools and knowledge to do so. However, before you pop off that tire, make sure you’re in a safe area. Changing a tire on a busy highway or interstate can be very dangerous. Rather than risk another car colliding into you, call a tow truck company and wait for professional assistance.
3. Do You Have the Tools?
Obvious question? Yes, but still worth mentioning. You never want to conduct roadside repairs without the proper tools and equipment. Even if it’s a minor issue that you think can be done with a pair of hands and strong will, nothing is worth compromising your safety. While calling a towing company in Vancouver for a dead battery may seem like overkill, it’s safer than betting on another driver having the tools and capabilities to stop by and help. You can also cause terrible, unnecessary damage to your vehicle if ill equipped.
4. How’s the Weather?
Storms and solo roadside repairs don’t mix. If your car breaks down in bad weather, from heavy rainfall and snowstorms to high winds and frost, your visibility to other drivers greatly decreases. Even if you’re capable of conducting roadside repairs, it’s very dangerous to do so in extreme weather conditions. Therefore, your safest and most efficient option is calling a towing company for help.
5. Do You Know Where You Are?
If you’re in unfamiliar territory, it’s important to call a professional tow truck company for assistance. Driving through an unknown location is stressful enough. Tack a broken-down vehicle onto that and you’ve got yourself quite the harrowing situation. However, a nearby towing company will be able to deliver you and your vehicle to safety.
In Conclusion…
If your car breaks down on the side of the road, calling a tow truck company is the best solution. With Mundie’s Towing and Recovery, you’re getting an experienced team of professionals at your service. As the number one towing company in Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Coquitlam, New Westminster, and Delta, you can rest assured your vehicle is in the best hands. Reach out to our team today!