Tips for Choosing an Emergency Towing Service
Californians drive more than 14,000 miles per year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. With that many miles spent behind the wheel, it’s likely that at some point, you’ll have an issue with your car, whether it is a flat tire on Bay Bridge or a breakdown on Interstate 80.
Luckily, cell phones have created a much easier scenario for getting help when it’s needed, and there are many Oakland breakdown services available to come to your aid with a simple phone call. But choosing the right roadside service isn’t as easy as just dialing the first towing or wrecker company that pops up on an internet search.
With some planning and a little research conducted before you need an Oakland flat towing or emergency road service, you’ll be ready if or when the time comes.
Check Your Insurance
Most insurance companies offer roadside assistance coverage, but you generally must pay an additional amount for the service. If you did purchase it, verify with your insurance company what is covered. Most companies have a set number of roadside service calls that are covered, offering flat tire changes, battery jumps, or mechanical breakdowns, to name a few. Generally, there is a dedicated phone number to call when you need the services, and the towing service is selected from a list of companies they’ve contracted with.
Auto Warranty
If your car is still under warranty, check to see if it is covered for roadside assistance. Many vehicle manufacturers provide services that will send out a tow truck if you experience a car breakdown, lock yourself out of your car, or need help changing out a car flat in Oakland.
Avoid Bad Towing
Like any other service, it’s advisable to do some research before adding an Oakland towing and emergency roadside assistance service to your phone contacts. You can start with a website search and look for the following information:
· How many years has the towing company been in business?
· Does the company offer 24/7 roadside assistance service?
· What services does the company offer in addition to towing?
· How many trucks does the company have available around the clock?
· How much of the Oakland area does the company provide service for?
Some companies offer online forms that allow you to ask questions regarding rates, the equipment they use, proficiency of the drivers, and other pertinent information. Ask friends, neighbors or coworkers about their towing or roadside assistance experiences. Avoid companies that:
· Aren’t properly equipped to tow your type of vehicle, whether it is a motorcycle, car, or truck.
· Don’t offer 24/7 services.
· Have a reputation of long waits or no-shows and poor customer service.
· Aren’t an established business in the Oakland area.
Towing Reminders
Add your chosen towing company in your phone’s contact list, or keep the phone number in your glove compartment. If possible, move your car out of traffic to a safer spot off the main road or highway, unless there has been a collision. In those cases, the police will usually ask if they can call one of the auto wrecker services in Oakland, and you can provide them with the company you’ve chosen from your research.
Remember to stay with your car and have your phone ready to receive a call from the towing company should they need to call you regarding your location. Turn on your emergency lights, and keep yourself and your passengers safe. When the tow truck arrives, ask for company identification to ensure it is the company you called.
Trustworthy companies offering emergency towing in Oakland readily provide information on their rates, equipment and other pertinent details. For more information on our services, call On Demand Towing and Transport and speak with one of our expert service professionals.
On Demand Towing & Transport
