Whether your car breaks down in the city or is stranded in the countryside, every driver benefits from a having towing company readily available. In Cincinnati, OH, that company is Buckeye Riverside Towing. For more than 75 years, they’ve provided reliable, affordable towing services throughout the Tri-State area. With so many years of dedicated service, they’re well-versed in the industry's history, and they’re here to share some fun and surprising facts about these vehicles.

4 Facts About Tow Trucks That May Surprise You

1. Aliases

Depending on where you are in the world, a tow truck may be referred to as a recovery truck, breakdown truck, breakdown lorry, or a wrecker. Remember, this is a general term and doesn’t describe any particular type of tow truck.

2. Different Types

Not only are there multiple names, but there are also different types. Flatbeds are the most common and what you see whenever you call for affordable towing. Hook-and-chain trucks wrap the entire vehicle in a chain to pull it out. Wheel-lifts are similar to this, but use a special piece that attaches under the wheels instead of a chain. A boom type has a boom winch, which allows the truck to operate as a craft. Finally, integrated types combine wheel-lift and boom technology for extra security.

3. Enduring

Tow trucks are some of the oldest automobiles. They were first designed in 1919 by Ernest Holmes, Sr., a mechanic living in Chattanooga, TN. After an arduous day of trying to pull a car from the river, he modified a 1913 Cadillac by adding a pulley system. This led to both an easier and a more affordable towing process.

4. Museum

Because tow trucks have proven to be integral to modern transportation, there's a museum for them in their birthplace of Chattanooga. Known as the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum, it showcases antique models, related artifacts, and industry memorabilia.

Whether you’re in Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana, if you need affordable towing, call Buckeye Riverside Towing at (513) 244-7200. With decades of experience, heavy-duty equipment, and 24/7 emergency towing availability, you can always depend on them. To learn more about their fleet, services, and team, visit their website.