When winter weather arrives, snow and ice will start covering the roads. While you might drive cautiously during these less than ideal traveling conditions, sometimes accidents happen. When they do, it’s essential to be prepared to answer a few questions when you call a tow truck driver.

The information You Need Before You Call a Tow Truck

1. Where is your vehicle?

The tow truck company needs as much information as possible to find your location. If you’re pulled over on the side of the road, give them the name of the street, the cross street, or a landmark nearby. If you parked at a store, tell them its name and where the car is parked in relation to the building. If you are at home, give the tow truck driver your address and where the vehicle is parked, like in the garage, in an alley, or on the street.       

2. What kind of vehicle do you have?     

Describing the color your car is won’t be enough information for the tow truck company; you also need to know the make and model as well. So the driver knows how to tow your vehicle, mention if it’s all-wheel, front-wheel, or rear-wheel drive. Also, inform them if the car is lifted high or lowered to the ground.

3. Are you pulling a trailer or camper?

If you have an overhead camper, topper, or Tonneau cover, let the tow truck driver know. You’ll also need to know how long the trailer is, how much it weighs, and how tall it is from the ground to the top of the AC unit.

4. What is wrong with your vehicle?

Tell the company what’s wrong with your vehicle. Is the car not starting? Are the keys locked inside, or did you run out of fuel? Were you in a collision with another car, or did you hit a deer? Also, let them know if you have a broken axle, the steering wheel won’t turn, or the lug nuts broke.

5. Are you with the vehicle, and where are the keys?

The tow truck driver will need the keys to unlock the steering column and straighten the wheels or release the emergency brake.          

6. Where do you want the vehicle taken?

When the driver asks where your vehicle needs to go, don’t just give them the name of your mechanic. While tow truck companies know the names of repair and body shops, they probably won’t know which one the technician works at.

7. How are you paying for the service?

Many companies will accept debit or credit cards, cash, or checks. They can also bill the body shop; however, they’ll need authorization from the repair shop to do this.           

If you find yourself stuck during the Holidays and need a towing service, call Bolster's Towing in Kalispell, MT. Serving the Greater Flathead Valley area for over 45 years, they can take your car wherever it needs to go. If the tow truck driver takes it to an auto body shop, they will give them your name, number, the keys, vehicle description, and tell them what is wrong with the vehicle. Call them at (406) 752-4528 for assistance, or visit them online to view their services.