Not all roadside assistance vehicles are created equal. In fact, any reliable towing service will have more than one type of truck in their fleet so they’re prepared to handle a variety of automotive emergencies. When you need a tow truck, it’s important to have a strong awareness of the model that will be most helpful to you. With a deeper understanding of different tow truck types, you can more accurately estimate what the circumstances warrant and communicate more effectively with the towing experts. 

3 Types of Tow Trucks You Should Know

1. Hook & Chain

These versatile trucks use mechanical parts to hoist vehicles up from the front end and pull them along on their back wheels. However, because they drag the car, they can cause more damage than other models. In most instances, the hook and chain truck is used to tow vehicles that have been totaled in an accident or have been purchased as scrap cars. Hook and chain trucks also cannot tow vehicles that have employed parking brakes or all-wheel vehicles.

2. Flatbed

Perhaps the most common and easily recognized tow truck is the flatbed model, which carries vehicles atop a sturdy, level surface. The beauty of a flatbed model is that it can transport just about anything — from motorcycles to SUVs and boats. Because of the way the flatbed is designed, the truck can safely move vehicles with little risk of damage, making them useful for most roadside emergencies.

3. Wheel Lift

Similar to the hook and chain model, the wheel lift truck uses pneumatic hoists to lift one side of a vehicle in the air, minimizing the probability of damage. The wheel lift tow truck is often used for cars in minor accidents or those that have broken down but have not withstood any body damage. The ride is much smoother and less impactful, so you can trust that you won’t find any new dings or scratches when you pick it up from the tow yard. 

Do you need vehicle assistance in Sacramento, CA? Elk Grove Towing has been a trusted roadside assistance service since 1987. With a multitude of different tow truck types in their fleet, they are fully prepared to haul any vehicle, regardless of how much damage it’s sustained. For more help, visit them online or call (916) 454-5112 today.