What is a towing service?
A towing service moves a vehicle from one location to another when the vehicle cannot or should not be driven, or when the vehicle needs to be transported for another reason.
When should I call for a tow?
You may need a tow when your vehicle cannot be driven safely, has broken down, has been damaged in an accident, or needs to be transported to another location.
If you’re unsure whether the vehicle is safe to drive, explain the situation when you contact a towing provider.
What information do I need to request a tow?
Provide your pickup location, destination, vehicle make and model, vehicle condition, and a brief explanation of what happened.
If the vehicle has damage or cannot roll or steer normally, mention that before service is arranged.
How much does towing cost?
Towing costs vary depending on factors such as distance, pickup location, vehicle type, vehicle condition, destination, and the circumstances of the tow.
The best way to understand the cost of a specific job is to provide the relevant details when requesting service.
Can I get my vehicle towed to a repair shop?
Yes, a vehicle that cannot be driven may need to be transported to a repair facility. Provide the pickup location and repair-shop destination when arranging the tow.
Can you tow a vehicle that won’t start?
A vehicle that won’t start may still be towable, but the appropriate approach depends on the vehicle’s condition, whether it can roll and steer, and where it is located.
Tell the towing provider that the vehicle does not start when requesting service.
What if my vehicle was damaged in an accident?
Explain the accident-related damage when requesting towing service. A damaged vehicle may need to be handled differently from a normally functioning vehicle.
If the accident is still an active emergency, follow the instructions of emergency personnel at the scene.
Can I arrange a tow for a longer distance?
Yes, longer vehicle transportation may require a different arrangement than a short local tow. See the Long Distance Towing page for more information.
What should I do while waiting for a tow?
Prioritize your personal safety. If you’re near moving traffic, move to a safer location when possible without putting yourself at risk. Keep your phone available and make sure the towing provider has accurate pickup information.
Do I need to know what’s wrong with my vehicle?
No. You don’t necessarily need to diagnose the problem. Describe what happened, whether the vehicle starts or moves, and any visible damage or unusual circumstances.
What if I’m not sure what type of tow I need?
Give the towing provider as much information as you can about the vehicle, its condition, location, and destination. The relevant towing approach can then be determined from the circumstances.