Car breakdowns can happen without warning. If you’re stranded on the side of the road with car trouble, you’ll want a towing company to get you to the mechanic as soon as possible. However, before you call the first towing company you see in a search engine, learn about the kinds of tow trucks available to see what you need to get to the nearest repair shop safely.

5 Types of Tow Trucks to Know

1. Flatbed

This type of tow truck is commonly used as it makes transporting a car easy. The bed of the truck lowers to create a ramp that enables a vehicle to roll onto the bed. It's the safest way to transport a vehicle. 

2. Integrated

Integrated tow trucks are known for their power. They typically tow bigger vehicles such as buses or semi-trucks. 

3. Boom

This type is best used for towing on an incline. If your car is stuck in a ditch, the tow truck can use a boom winch that adjusts to pull the car up and out of the area.

4. Hook and Chain

This used to be a popular towing option, but it’s now mostly used to transport vehicles to the junkyard due to the damage that it can cause. These damages can come from the hook pulling the frame out of shape and the possibility of scratching the bumper from the angle of the tow.

5. Wheel-lift

This type of tow has become a popular replacement for the hook and chain option. Wheel lift tow trucks use a metal yoke that attaches under the front or back tires to life the car and tow it from either end. While this option doesn’t leave the car as protected as a flatbed tow truck, it is less costly, and thus more commonly used.

The best type of towing company gives motorists options. If your car breaks down in Monroe County, WI, contact Tomah Wrecker & Repair, LLC, to help get you safely to the nearest repair shop. With multiple kinds of tow trucks and a variety of services offered, they’ll help you when you’re in need. Visit their website to find out more about their services, and call (608) 372-2550 for 24-hour roadside assistance.