Being involved in a roadside breakdown can be very stressful. No one wants to be stranded on the side of the road with a damaged car. However, there are steps you can take which will assist the tow truck services and help to make the recovery process a lot less stressful.
Give the Recovery Service a Precise Location
When you contact the recovery service, you should try to give them your exact location. If you only give the tow truck company the name or number of the road you are on, it could take them a long time to locate your car. You should let the tow truck company know the number or name of the last junction you passed. Doing so will allow the tow company to work out which part of the road you are on. If possible, you should check for numbered roadside markers. This number will allow the recovery service to pinpoint your exact location.
Make Your Car Visible
If you have broken down at night or on a highway or other fast road, it may be difficult for the tow truck driver to spot you. You should do all you can to make your vehicle visible. You should lift the hood of your car and turn on your hazard lights.
Position Your Car
When pulling over to the side of the road, you should think carefully about how you position your vehicle. It is likely that the tow truck driver will use chains or a pulley to winch your car onto the rear or back of his truck. If you pull over and stop your car at an angle or position it right up against the crash barrier, it may be tough for the tow truck driver to attach the chains. You should stop your car facing the direction of travel and ensure that there is enough room available to walk around the car.
Remain Calm
Although breaking down can cause lots of anxiety, you should do your best to stay calm. A panicked phone call will increase the chance the recovery telephone operator will misunderstand the information. Remember, recovery tow truck drivers are highly trained professionals, so you are in good hands. Once the driver arrives, you should try to relax and let them get on with their job.
If you would like further information about the actions you should take during a breakdown, contact a tow truck company or roadside assistance service today.