When you’re stranded on the side of the road due to a breakdown or an accident, the last thing you want to worry about is finding a reliable towing service. Whether it’s a flat tire, engine failure, or an unfortunate collision, understanding how towing services work can save you time, money, and stress.
In this guide, our professionals here at Mount Pleasant Tow Truck will explore the costs, services, and essential tips you need to know about emergency towing.
Understanding Emergency Towing Services
Emergency towing is designed to help vehicle owners get their cars to a safe location when they become inoperable. Here are some of the most common towing services available:
Roadside Assistance Towing
This service is often part of auto club memberships or insurance policies. It typically includes minor repairs on-site, such as jump-starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery. If the issue can’t be resolved on the spot, the car is towed to a nearby repair shop.
Flatbed Towing
Flatbed tow trucks are the safest way to transport vehicles, as they completely lift the car off the ground. This method is ideal for luxury cars, all-wheel drive vehicles, and those that have been in an accident.
Wheel-Lift Towing
A more cost-effective option, wheel-lift towing involves lifting either the front or rear wheels of the car while the other set remains on the road. This method is suitable for short-distance tows but may not be ideal for long distances.
Heavy-Duty Towing
For larger vehicles like buses, trucks, and RVs, heavy-duty towing services are available. These require specialized tow trucks capable of handling significant weight.
Accident Recovery Towing
After a collision, accident recovery towing ensures your vehicle is safely removed from the scene and transported to a repair facility.
How Much Does Emergency Towing Cost?
The cost of towing services varies based on several factors, including distance, vehicle type, time of day, and additional services required. Here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect:
| Towing Type | Average Cost |
| Base Hook-up Fee | $50 to $ 150 |
| Per Mile Rate | $2 to $7 per mile |
| Flatbed Towing | $75 to $250 |
| Heavy-duty Towing | $200 to $600, or more |
| After-hours or Holiday Surcharges | Additional fees may apply for late-night or holiday tows |
| Winching Service | $50 to $250, depending on the difficulty of the recovery |
How to Save Money on Towing Services
Nobody wants to pay more than necessary for a tow. Here are a few ways to reduce your towing costs:
1. Check Your Insurance or Roadside Assistance Plan. Many auto insurance policies and memberships with companies like AAA or your credit card provider may cover towing services. Check your policy details before calling a towing company.
2. Compare Rates Before Calling a Tow Truck. Prices can vary significantly between towing companies. If you have time, call a few providers and compare their rates before making a decision.
3. Avoid Unnecessary Extra Fees. Some companies charge hidden fees for storage or distance beyond their initial estimate. Always ask for a full breakdown of costs before agreeing to a tow.
4. Consider a Towing Membership. If you drive frequently, investing in a roadside assistance membership can be a cost-effective option. These plans typically offer multiple tows per year for a flat annual fee.
What to Do When You Need a Tow
If you find yourself in a situation where towing is necessary, follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
Step 1: Stay Safe
Pull your car over to a safe location if possible. Turn on your hazard lights. If you’re on a busy road, stay inside your vehicle while waiting for help.
Step 2: Call for Assistance
If you have roadside assistance coverage, call your provider. If not, search for a local towing service and ask for an estimate. Make sure to ask about their response time.
Step 3: Confirm Towing Destination
Decide where you want your vehicle to be towed (repair shop, home, dealership, etc.). Some companies charge extra for towing beyond a certain distance, so clarify the cost upfront.
Step 4: Take Pictures
Before your car is towed, take photos of its condition. This protects you in case of damage during transport.
Choosing the Right Towing Company
Not all towing companies offer the same level of service. Consider these factors when choosing a towing provider:
- Reputation. Check online reviews and ratings.
- Response Time. A good towing company should have a quick response time.
- Pricing Transparency. Avoid companies that won’t provide an upfront estimate.
- Licensing and Insurance. Ensure the company is licensed and insured to protect your vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Road emergencies and accidents are a hassle. But having the right knowledge about emergency towing can make a stressful situation much easier to handle.
So, the next time you’re in need of a tow, keep these tips in mind to save money, reduce stress, and get back on the road as quickly as possible. For a more secure road trip, keep Mount Pleasant Tow Truck’s telephone number in your phone!
Mount Pleasant Tow Truck offers quick and affordable towing services, including emergency towing service. Our team is always on standby 24/7.
Call us when you need help at (854) 203-2105 or send us a message.