Helpful Tips to Properly Tow Your Vehicle

Helpful Tips to Properly Tow Your Vehicle

Your vehicle needs a towing service every once in a while. No, we are not talking about getting your car towed due to parking violations here, but the more assistive type of towing. You may need help in moving your vehicle to another location, taking your vehicle along for a trip, or taking it to the nearest shop for repairs. Car breakdowns are a common reason for needing towing assistance. Whether it is your car that needs help or is the one assisting, it is essential to have the right knowledge on properly towing your vehicle.

Here, we will share some helpful tips to properly tow your vehicle and stay safe on the road.

Use the Proper Equipment

Gone are the days when you can simply tow your vehicle using a rope. The highways these days are busier than ever and can be dangerous if you do not have the proper towing equipment. Towing professionals and personnel from https://www.fastsydneytowing.com.au/ emphasize the importance of the right towing equipment whether your vehicle is being towed or is the one towing. Many tow truck service providers have their tow trucks carry several pieces of equipment to handle different vehicles that need towing. A tow strap is a recommended equipment that regular vehicles must have for towing or being towed by another vehicle. It is lightweight, durable, and flexible enough to adjust to different vehicle structures.

Coordinate With the Other Driver

Coordination and communication are essential when it comes to towing a vehicle. Whichever end you may be during towing, you need to coordinate with the other driver on planning and executing the tow. Both of you will need to check the towing equipment used if it is securely attached to the vehicle and if a reinforcement or second strap is necessary. Also, both vehicles need to be manned for safety. 

If you are driving the car being towed and it is still functioning, make sure to remove the parking brake. Also, put the vehicle into drive or first gear. If the car is not functioning properly, place it on neutral.

If you are driving the towing vehicle, move the vehicle slowly until the strap is fully extended and you feel it begin to tighten. Start pulling the other vehicle once you feel that the strap is tight. Move and maintain a slow and steady pace, preferably around 15 mph. Be careful with braking or slowing down to avoid collision with the towed vehicle. Make light and repeated steps on the brakes to signal the other driver to slow down or stop. If both your vehicles stop, repeat the process of slowly extending the strap before pulling again. Avoid sudden jerks or swerves as they may damage or break the strap.

Be Alert and Alert Others

Being alert applies to both drivers of the towed and towing vehicle. After prior arrangements and agreeing on a planned route, you need to stay safe while traveling on the road until you reach the agreed destination to disengage. Put up a clear warning sign or label like “On Tow” or “Being Towed” to let other motorists know your situation. It also saves you the hassle of dealing with aggressive honks from other drivers. Turn on the ignition for the towed car to release the steering lock and activate the direction indicators and brake lights.

Keeping some precautions and preparations in mind can help tow your vehicle safely and easily. Following these tips can help you arrive at your destination safely while being towed or towing another vehicle. Remember that even if your vehicle is being towed, you still have to practice defensive driving and prudence on the road. A little carefulness on the road can go a long way, so stay safe at all times.