Commercial trucks are heavy-duty pieces of machinery that take up a lot of space on highways and city streets. In the event of a breakdown, semitruck towing operators take extra precaution to keep themselves and other motorists on the road safe while transporting vehicles. Below are answers to a few common questions about how semitrucks are towed safely. 

4 FAQ About Semitruck Towing Safety

How Is a Tow Vehicle’s Weight Capacity Determined?

All tow trucks are licensed to haul specific loads, which ensures a semi won’t pull away as it’s being hauled. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), or the maximum capacity a tow truck can pull, can range from 10,000 pounds to more than 26,000 pounds. A semitruck towing specialist will ask about the weight of the vehicle to be hauled to ensure their GVWR is high enough to transport your truck. 

How Are Semitrucks Towed?

To prevent injury, tow truck drivers follow strict procedures when loading and unloading semis. They will make sure all cables are damage-free when loading to prevent the chords from snapping under the tension. Technicians will also make sure all areas around the semi are clear before using wheel lifts, jack extension legs, or any other equipment.

Do Tow Truck Drivers Wear Protective Gear?

Whether towing a sedan or big-wheel truck, towing specialists will always wear special clothing to make themselves more visible to passing motorists. When hauling vehicles on federal highways, tow truck operators are required to wear yellow, orange, or green safety vests with reflective coatings. Many also wear reflective helmets, gloves, and steel-toed, slip-resistant shoes to stay out of harm’s way.

How Are Semitrucks Kept From Swaying?

High-speed winds or heavy rainfall could cause semis to sway while being towed, which could compromise the safety of motorists driving nearby. To prevent this, semitruck towing technicians will try to avoid crosswinds and find safer routes for transporting trucks. 

If you experience a breakdown or other malfunction while driving a commercial vehicle, the staff at Blystone Towing & Radiator in Portage, WI, has more than 60 years of experience providing heavy-duty recovery, which means they are equipped to help you out of a jam. To learn more about semitruck towing services available in Columbia County, call (608) 742-4228. Visit the 24-hour towing company online for a closer look at their auto recovery solutions, and follow them on Facebook for announcements.