Before getting your car towed, there are several important steps you should take to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Here’s a list of things you need to do before having your car towed:
1. Check for roadside assistance: If you have roadside assistance through your car insurance or a third-party service, such as AAA, contact them first to see if they can arrange for a tow.
2. Assess the situation: If your car is in a dangerous location, such as on a busy highway, it’s important to prioritize your safety and the safety of others. If necessary, contact law enforcement for assistance with traffic control.
3. Remove personal items: Take out any valuable personal items from the car, such as your wallet, phone, or any important documents. You may also want to remove any removable accessories from the car, like a GPS unit or a stereo faceplate.
4. Prepare the necessary information: Have your driver’s license, registration, and insurance information ready for the tow truck driver. You may also need to provide the location of where you want the car towed to.
5. Secure the vehicle: If your car is in a parking lot or another private property, make sure you have permission to have it towed. If it’s safe to do so, lock the car and take note of its condition.
6. Take photos: It’s a good idea to take photos of your car’s current condition, especially if it was involved in an accident. These photos can serve as documentation for insurance purposes.
7. Understand the costs: Before agreeing to the tow, make sure you understand the costs involved and how payment will be handled. If your insurance is covering the tow, make sure you know what is and isn’t covered.
8. Choose a reputable towing company: If you have the option to choose a towing company, opt for one with a good reputation and clear pricing policies. If possible, check reviews or ask for recommendations.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that the process of getting your car towed goes as smoothly as possible and that your car is handled properly.