At the height of summer, cities in Arizona can see temps of 110 degrees Fahrenheit or more. The intense heat and sun can cause major car problems, including engine overheating, battery failure, broken belts, and tire blowouts. The best thing to do to prevent a breakdown or accident is stay on top of preventive vehicle maintenance and be aware of what to do if you need to call a tow truck in Tucson, Phoenix, or Sierra Vista, AZ. Barnett’s Towing offers reliable, speedy towing services throughout Southern Arizona. Here is our guide to what to do (and what not to do) while waiting for a tow by the side of the road or in a business parking lot.
Do: Pull Over or Move Your Vehicle to a Safe Spot
The first thing that you should do if your vehicle breaks down in traffic or on the highway is to put your turn signal or hazard lights on and try to move to safety. Moving your vehicle to the side of the road or into the nearest parking lot will protect it (and you) from injury and prevent traffic jams or accidents. However, if it isn’t possible to move your vehicle safely, the next best option is to leave it where it is. Put on your hazard lights and use reflective triangles or flares to indicate its position to other drivers.
Don’t: Stay in the Car if Unsafe, or Stand Near It on a Busy Highway
If you feel that it isn’t safe to remain in your vehicle because you’re worried it will be hit by another driver, safely exit the car and move to a protected area, such as behind a guard rail. However, if your vehicle is pulled off to the side of the road and isn’t in danger of being hit, it’s best to remain inside until our towing service arrives.
Do: Check for Hazards and Damage
Before our tow truck arrives, check your vehicle for any signs of damage or anything that could pose a hazard to other drivers. Take photos or videos of damage before your vehicle is loaded onto the tow truck. This might be necessary for insurance claims.
Don’t: Leave Your Vehicle Unattended
If possible, remain with your vehicle until the nearest tow truck arrives. If you do need to leave the car, take your personal items and any valuables with you. Consider leaving a note on the vehicle with the date and time, explaining that you walked to the closest gas station to use a phone or wait for a ride.
Don’t: Accept Help From Strangers
You should only accept assistance or a ride from a friend or family member, tow truck driver, or law enforcement officer. Do not accept help from a stranger. If necessary, call 911 or the local police department’s non-emergency line to let them know that your vehicle is blocking traffic or that you are in a dangerous position.
Do: Call Our Trusted Local Towing Company
Always have the phone number for our trusted local towing company handy. Barnett’s Towing offers 24/7 hour emergency towing services throughout Southern Arizona. If you have been Googling “towing near me” in Tucson, Phoenix, or Sierra Vista, call us today at 1-800-722-2302 or contact us online.