Step By Step Guide - Car Breaks Down
Did your car broke down on the highway or did your car had a collision and you don’t know what to do? Read this article and you will back on track in no time.
1. Check your Location
The location where you car broke down can make a big difference. By instance if your car broke down on the highway or on the middle of the street you should call a tow truck right away. If you are on a parking lot or a driveway you could take your time.
2. Be Safe
If your car is stuck on a dangerous spot like the highway or a intersection, turn on the hazard, hold the handbrake and leave the vehicle safely. All the passengers and the driver should find a safe place where they can make emergency calls and wait for a tow truck.
3. Take Pictures
Make sure to snap many footage of your vehicles condition before the tow car arrives. This documentation will come in handy if any sudden damages occur whereas your car is being towed. It’s also good to possess documentation once addressing your insurance company.
4. Call your Insurance company
Many insurance companies reimburse the towing costs, but often prefer towing services or distance restrictions. Before you tow your car, be sure to check with them so you know exactly how much you are insured.
5. Call a towing company nearby
If your insurance company doesn’t suggest which company to call, then it’s a good time to find out. You can choose a company based on your location and possibly customer reviews if you find them.
6. aks for a quote
Different towing companies use different pricing methods. Some charge a fixed fee while others charge by miles. Also ask what payment method they accept so you don’t have to walk to the ATM!
7. Ask the method of towing your car
The two most common methods of towing a car are using a hook and chain or a flat bed truck. The flatbed trailer is more ideal because the entire car is loaded onto the truck. With a hook and chain, a hook will get stuck under your car and cause damage, make sure the damage is specified as it can sometimes affect the way the car should be towed.
8. Decide where your car will be towed
A good towing company will ask you where you want to take your vehicle, say you want to tow to the body shop or your property. If you are unfamiliar with the area the tow truck driver should be able to recommend a mechanic.
9. Remove valuable items from your car
Be sure to remove all valuables, including documents, before towing your vehicle. While most tow companies are reliable, it is never a good idea to leave anything important in your car alone. On the one hand, when you are waiting for the tow truck to arrive, you probably won’t be watching your car every second.
10. Make a copy of the receipt
Many insurance companies reimburse towing costs upon presentation of the original receipt. Make a copy yourself!
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We arrive in less than 15 minutes in Richmond, CA in range of 10 miles. We also deliver our services in other areas in San Francisco.