When Should You Call a Tow Truck?

January 9, 2023 By WebGuy

You have pulled your car over to the side of the road. Do you immediately call a tow service? Not every breakdown situation calls for a tow truck. For example, if you have car trouble on the road, are knowledgeable about cars, and have the correct tools, your problem may be resolved without needing towing services. However, there are situations where you need to call for towing services. Let’s detail some of these situations to help you see how a tow truck can help you.

Tips from Tow Service in Raleigh: When to Call for Help

Your Vehicle Won’t Start

If you’ve tried everything you know and your car won’t start, it is time to call a towing company for help. Sometimes, it might be something simple that a tow driver can help with, such as a dead battery. In that case, all you need is a jump, but there are issues that even the tow truck driver can’t fix. When you have a more significant problem than the battery, get a tow truck to take you to a mechanic.

Out of Gas

This situation can happen to anyone. While you might be tempted to walk to a gas station, leaving your car on the roadside unattended is risky. This is especially true if you are far from a gas station or in a dangerous area. Instead of taking the risk, call for tow services.

Flat Tire

Most people know how to change a tire, but not everyone. Call a towing services company if it is impossible to do it alone. For example, you might have the spare tire and all the tools to change the tire, but the lug nuts won’t bulge. If this happens, a tow truck is your best option. Avoid doing more damage to the car and have an experienced professional help you and reduce the stress of struggling with the tire at the side of the road alone.

Accident

We hope that you never get into a car accident. However, if you do, it is best to let a tow truck company take you to the repair shop, where you’ll get an estimate on damages to present to the insurance company. Sometimes you might think it is a minor accident since the car is starting and moving on its own. However, you might be doing more damage to the car without knowing. Let the professionals evaluate the vehicle for safety before returning to your driving routine.

Unlimited Recovery & Towing

Are you in need of any tow services in Raleigh? Unlimited Recovery & Towing has your back. Never get stranded at the side of the road helpless. Keep our number, 919-790-9393, on your phone, and call us when you need a reliable towing service.

How to Avoid Recovery Towing

November 7, 2022 By WebGuy

A recovery tow vehicle’s approach can be a welcome sight if you find yourself stranded on the roadside in a snowstorm, in the dead of night, or in the middle of a deserted area. If your car engine has stalled, you’ve got a flat tire, are struggling with extreme weather conditions, or have been in an accident – a professional, expert towing service will be able to tow your vehicle to a suitable location safely. However, there are some steps you can take ahead of time to ensure that you are fully prepared the next time you run into trouble on the road. For example, if you are adequately supplied, the next time you have an emergency on the road, you may not need to call a recovery tow service at all. Below we will look at the steps you can take to avert disaster.

Top 5 Tips on How to Avoid Recovery Towing

Have Emergency Numbers

Ensure you have your local mechanic’s and other emergency phone numbers programmed into your phone or keep a list of them in your glove box.

Put Together an Emergency Kit

Keep a kit in your car filled with helpful gear. Here are some items to have in your kit:

Flashlight with spare batteries
Tire jack and air pump
Tire repair kit
Tool Kit with extra nuts and bolts
Work gloves
Reflective triangles and road markers to warn oncoming vehicles
High visibility vest
Emergency flares if you regularly travel in isolated areas or at night
Some food bars and bottled water
Sweater or Coat to keep warm at night
Walking shoes/boots in case you need to travel to find assistance

First Aid Kit

Buy a complete first aid kit for your vehicle so that you can treat injuries or illnesses in the case of an emergency. Make sure to include:

Bandages
Scissors
Band-Aids
Hygienic Wipes
Rubbing Alcohol
Over-the-counter medicines to deal with Nausea, Headaches, Travel Sickness, etc.

Keep Your Car Regularly Maintained

Get your vehicle serviced regularly and check in with your local mechanic before going on long road trips. It’s always better to be aware of a potential problem while still at home than to discover it when traveling along a deserted road.

Make sure that your headlights are working, the tread on your tires is still up to standard, and your brakes are functioning correctly. Also, check your oil, transmission fluid, and antifreeze levels before you leave, and don’t forget to fill the gas tank.

Watch the Weather

For day-to-day traveling, make sure you listen to local radio and check weather apps to know if you need to adjust your routes or your estimated journey times. Then, in the days leading up to a big trip, stay updated with weather warnings for your location and the states where you’ll be traveling.

Unlimited Recovery & Towing

Need a reliable tow service to add to your phone? For tow services in Raleigh NC, contact Unlimited Recovery & Towing for fast, efficient, and safe vehicle recovery services. You can rely on our 24 Hours service to assist you in a roadside emergency. Contact us at 919-790-9393.

What Causes Damage to a Car During Towing?

September 5, 2022 By WebGuy

Nobody wants to get their car towed, even if it’s necessary. However, it’s even more troublesome if you find your vehicle is damaged during the towing process. Damage is a possibility that not many consider, but it can happen to any car that gets towed. This article examines how a car can be damaged during towing and what signs to watch out for. Keep reading to get all the details now.

Tips From Tow Service in Raleigh: Possible Car Damage

Bumper Damage

Bumper damage is the first and most common type of damage your car might sustain during towing. This damage includes the bumper becoming loose, cracked, or even coming off entirely.
Bumper damage happens when the towing service places the tow hook in a poor position. If not set correctly, the hook puts undue stress on the bumper from underneath, causing cracks or separation from the car frame. In addition, if the chain is too loose, the car may bump into the back of the tow truck as it’s being towed, which will also result in bumper damage.

Tire Damage

Towing can also cause damage to your car’s tires. This damage could result from a piece of metal on the tow truck’s bed puncturing a hole in one of the tires, or it could be more serious, such as the tire track getting damaged by the tow truck’s chain.

Windshield Damage

Damage to the windshield is another form of damage a car can sustain during towing. After your vehicle has been towed, check if there are new scratches or cracks in your car’s windshield. This damage is usually due to rocks or debris thrown into the windshield from the tow truck’s tires. It’s a common occurrence because a car being towed is typically towed very close behind the truck, which makes it the first target for debris thrown up by the truck’s tires.

Keep a Record

Before your car is towed, take photos of the vehicle for your records. Then if there is damage to the car, you can show your insurance company the vehicle’s condition before it was towed. In addition, always use a reliable, professional towing service.

Unlimited Recovery & Towing

Because car damage during towing can be such a problem, it’s essential to go with a towing service that has demonstrated professionalism with their customers, like Unlimited Recovery & Towing. We are a top-rated tow service in Raleigh NC. Our experienced drivers know the proper and safe way to tow vehicles without causing damage. Contact us at 919-790-9393 for all your towing needs.

What to Do If My Car Breaks Down on the Highway

December 6, 2021 By WebGuy

Nothing puts a damper on your day, like your car breaking down on the highway. It can be an aggravating and anxiety-inducing experience. Fortunately, by following a few simple steps, you can ensure you and your car stay safe. Below we will talk about what to do if your car breaks down on the highway and one of the best car towing services to call in Raleigh, Unlimited Recovery.

Six Safety Steps for a Roadside Breakdown

Although your car breaking down on the highway can be frustrating and sometimes scary, here are six steps to take to help you handle the situation.

Move Car. Try your best to get your vehicle off the road and a reasonable distance from the roadway. It is essential to remain visible but minimize the risk of someone hitting you or your car.

Stop Somewhere Safe. Pull off the road somewhere where you feel safe. But, if your car is smoking or smells odd, get out of the vehicle immediately. If it is nighttime, stay in the car and lock the doors.

Car Emergency Kit. Put together a car emergency kit (or buy one). The kit should include:

Jumper cables
Tool kit or a multipurpose utility tool
Flashlight and extra batteries
Reflective triangles or flares to make your vehicle more visible
Reflective vest to make you more visible
Fire extinguisher
First aid kit
Nonperishable, high-energy foods, such as unsalted nuts, dried fruits, and hard candy
Drinking water
Car charger for your cell phone
Duct tape
Rain poncho
Cold weather items: snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, warm clothing, cat litter for traction, and blankets

Be Mindful. If you need to exit your vehicle, take caution as other motorists may not see you well. Stand off the road, if possible.

Call for Help. Contact friends and family to let them know the situation and where you are. After that, call a car towing company to come out to help you.

Plan for the Future. If you experience a breakdown, plan to be better prepared for the future if you missed things you needed the last time.

By being prepared, thinking calmly, and taking the proper steps, you can stay safe even in a frightening situation and get back on the road in no time.

Unlimited Recovery & Towing

If your vehicle needs to be towed to a shop or back to your home, you will want to find a reliable car towing service. In Raleigh, an excellent choice is Unlimited Recovery & Towing. We have a fleet of light-duty trucks with state-of-the-art wheel lift systems designed to haul all types of cars, including 4-wheel drive and specialty vehicles. We also offer roadside service for dead batteries, empty gas tanks, and flat tires. Keep our number 919-790-9393 on your phone and give us a call when you need help.

Preventative Maintenance to Help Avoid Breakdowns

November 8, 2021 By WebGuy

No one anticipates a breakdown. But, unfortunately, a breakdown can happen out of nowhere and spoil any driving trip in a matter of minutes. While many car owners overlook essential maintenance, following these guidelines will help minimize the chances of a breakdown and the need to hire a towing company. Here are some simple maintenance procedures a person may do to prevent the most prevalent breakdown reasons.

Tow Services in Raleigh: Maintenance Tips

The Battery

Checking the battery is the first essential of preventative maintenance. A car owner can inspect their battery terminals for corrosion visually. Corrosion can cause electrical connections to fail. It is a quick remedy for a potential breakdown. Clean the terminals with baking soda and a toothbrush if there is any build-up. Using baking soda neutralizes any battery acid. Regular cleaning will ensure that the terminals and connections are in good working order. In a pinch, Coca-Cola can be used. The slight acidity of Coke does not react, so it can be used over the battery and let it clean terminal corrosion.

The Tires

For road journeys, having tires in good condition is critical. Double-check the tread and tire pressure before heading off on an expedition. Punctures are more likely to occur in thin, worn tires, which might lead to a breakdown. Make sure the car tire treads are at least 1/8 inch thick using a simple coin test (Insert a penny, Lincoln head down, into the tread. If any part of Lincoln’s head is covered – you’re good.) Check for cuts, cracks, and uneven wear while evaluating the tires, as these could indicate a problem with wheel alignment or tire pressure. When the tires are under-inflated, they are subjected to increased tension, resulting in stress and uneven wear. Check the tire pressure level with a tire gauge regularly to ensure it meets the guidelines in the owner’s manual.

The Coolant Level

Several things can cause an engine to overheat – a low coolant level is one reason. To prevent overheating, first, check beneath the hood to see if the coolant levels are low. If there is fluid on the ground, the vehicle may have a coolant leak. Next, visually examine the hoses that bring the coolant to the engine for any signs of damage (do this only when the automobile is not running and the engine is cold). If the coolant level is low, add more immediately.

The Oil Level

Over time, old motor oil can become thick and dirty and lead to engine damage. Pull out the dipstick and physically inspect the oil level regularly. If it’s a dark color, make an appointment to have it replaced as soon as possible. If the level is low, add oil right away. If levels are low and you suspect a leak (dark, oily spots on your garage floor are one clue), take the vehicle for repair as soon as possible.

Other Fluid Levels

Regularly check the transmission fluid levels, braking fluid, power-steering fluid, antifreeze, and windshield wiper fluid to spot any problems early. If the levels are low, it could mean there are leaks or other issues. These fluids are critical for an automobile to run smoothly.

Unlimited Recovery and Towing

Even well-maintained cars can have a breakdown occasionally. If a breakdown happens and you need tow services in Raleigh, contact Unlimited Recovery and Towing. Our professionals know how to handle any roadside emergency. Call us at 919-790-9393.

Everyday Driving Is Dangerous – Here’s Why You Need A Tow Company

October 4, 2021 By WebGuy

Driving is risky. Most people don’t think about the risk because they consider themselves a “good driver.” However, the more frequently you drive, the greater chance you have at some point needing a tow service. The risk in driving involves uncertainties that can affect even the most careful drivers. For instance, if someone veers and hits your car, or your car suddenly stops working while you’re on the highway, you’ll need a tow service to help you to safety.

Moreover, people who drive daily are more likely to be exposed to stressed or negligent drivers or experiencing a breakdown while trying to reach their destination. Even if you have to be on the road daily, you should minimize your risks by having a backup plan with a reliable tow company in case the unexpected happens.

Needing a Tow Service: Risks You May Encounter

Distracted Driving

This problem is so common on roads nowadays. With the advent of technology, it takes even more discipline to ignore distractions while driving. Distractions can come in many forms: eating while driving, texting, or answering phone calls. Unfortunately, those few seconds of looking away can result in an accident. Although most states have enacted regulations to curb these distractions (i.e., drivers being required to use hands-free devices), it seems impossible to stop this act completely.

Bad Weather

Driving in bad weather is not an easy thing to do. You constantly need to watch out for debris and avoid other drivers while trying to make your way through – even a slight mistake could lead to an accident. So don’t be stranded in bad weather, have the phone number of a reliable tow service on speed dial.

Unsafe Areas

One of the first things drivers are advised to do when their car breaks down is to navigate it to the side of the road. But drivers cannot leave their vehicle there for too long because other vehicles driving along the route could hit them, leading to additional damage or injury. So instead, contact a tow service as soon as possible to move the car to a safer location.

This advice also goes for any unsafe areas that threaten your safety or that of your car. In these situations, drivers will want to get a tow service and leave the environment as quickly as possible.

Unlimited Recovery & Towing

Waiting until your vehicle breaks down before searching for a reliable tow service provider is not an intelligent choice. It’s better to be safe than sorry; hence you need to find a trusted tow company like Unlimited Recovery and Towing, whose service covers the areas you travel daily. That way, you know you’ll always be in safe hands whenever you need help with your vehicle while on the road. So place 919-790-9393 on your phone and call us when you require tow service.

What Is Non-Consensual Towing?

September 6, 2021 By WebGuy

Non-consensual towing is when a law enforcement agency seizes legal custody of a vehicle. But, that’s only a tiny part of it because the entire process of towing, detaining, and insurance is more complex. For example, in a non-consensual tow, law enforcement contacts a towing company to relocate vehicles from a street, highway, or property. The towing company usually has a prearranged agreement with the law enforcement agency to carry out this work.

When Non-Consensual Towing Happens

A law enforcement agency or officer is prompted to order a tow when there’s an accident scene, a vehicle breakdown, or a crime scene. Depending on the time and location, these situations can cause traffic hazards or delays. Hence, the officer needs to act swiftly by making a report and calling the towing company to intervene.

Ideally, police officers have what’s called- a “rotation list,” which contains the details of local towing service providers. Using that list, they will call each company on that list in succession.

Vehicle Owner Problems

Often the owner of the vehicle has no choice in the matter but can be slapped with an outrageous bill that includes all types of fees. Some of the fees seen on these towing bills include:

Equipment fee for trucks sent to the scene that were not used
Extra personnel fee for people sent to the scene
Arbitrary emergency call-out fees or fire department fees
Cargo transfer fees (for trucks carrying cargo)
Storage fee (if the vehicle is taken to a holding lot)
Paperwork fee to release vehicle

To add to your pain, the towing company has your vehicle, and they can hold it hostage until all fees are paid. Most people merely pay the fees to get their car back.

Many car insurance companies pay towing fees as part of an accident claim – another reason towing companies are happy to pad their bills with extra fees.

What Can You Do?

Due to the variety of laws and regulations that vary from city, county, and state, it is best to be prepared to handle contacting a trusted towing company yourself. Keep contact information for your towing company of choice on your phone. Inform law enforcement that you will handle getting your vehicle towed.

If that choice is taken out of your hands, contact your insurance company and tell them the circumstances. No one likes being taken advantage of, especially when in a vulnerable situation, including insurance companies. Let them handle it. They have the resources to investigate insurance fraud.

Unlimited Recovery and Towing

Don’t be caught off guard in a non-consensual towing situation. Have a reliable, trusted, and fair towing company on speed dial. Unlimited Recovery and Towing is here for you. Keep our number on your phone and call us when needed – we’re ready to help. Our number is 919-790-9393.

How Are Motorcycles Towed?

August 9, 2021 By WebGuy

On any given day, vehicles that have broken down for one reason or another are spotted on the roadways. However, when it comes to motorcycles, that’s a rare sight. So, do motorcycles break down and need tow services in Raleigh, especially during riding seasons? The answer is a resounding yes, and sometimes it could be in out-of-the-way places where help is not so easy to access.

Non-functioning motorcycles need to be loaded onto a trailer or a truck and cannot be pulled like a car or truck. So here are the most important things to do to be prepared for that possible breakdown.

Tow Services in Raleigh: Options for Moving a Motorcycle

When your motorbike develops a problem and gets stranded by the roadside, you’ll need the right equipment to dock your motorcycle and move it to a safe place without causing any damage to it.

Many motorcyclists own a towing trailer or truck. If this is the case and you are near home, you can call a family member or friend to transport it to your location. If you do not own either, you may hire a trusted tow service.

Equipment Needed

Having a towing trailer or truck is not the only equipment you’ll need to move a motorcycle. Here are a few items to have available to assist with the operation.

Chocks: The purpose of the pair of chocks is to keep the bike still on the trailer while it’s moving. Many motorbike towing trailers have built-in chokes, but if not, having a set comes in handy.
Loading Ramp: The traditional method of loading a motorcycle onto a towing truck or trailer was using wooden planks. But lots of people have damaged and dented their bikes using this process. So the safest way for the loaders and the bike is to use a loading ramp to avoid slip-ups.
Straps: Using what’s on hand to secure the motorcycle is a common situation, but swap the ropes and bungee cords for webbed straps to secure the bike firmly. Doing this will prevent even the slightest damage.

Using A Motorcycle Towing Service

Towing a motorcycle might seem way more manageable than moving a vehicle, but the process requires trained hands, patience, and the right equipment. A towing service has the experience and trained personnel to do the job correctly.

Is It Necessary To Get Help From A Motorcycle Towing Service?

If your motorcycle develops a fault in the middle of nowhere, the only option before you is to get help. It could happen during the day or even at night. It’s best to plan and have a reliable tow service phone number on your phone; that way, irrespective of where and how your motorcycle malfunctions, you’re just a call away from getting professional help.

On a final note, towing your vehicle yourself may seem cost-effective, but when you consider the strain it puts on you and the high chance of damaging your bike, is it worth the risk?

Unlimited Recovery and Towing

Have you ever had motorbike trouble, and how did you handle it? If you ever need tow services in Raleigh, Unlimited Recovery and Towing are ready to help. Call 919-790-9393 for towing assistance anytime.

How to Safely Avoid Reckless Drivers

July 5, 2021 By WebGuy

When it comes to wreaking havoc on the roads, reckless drivers are dangerous culprits. Whether using their phones, chatting to their buddies, or playing their music too loud, reckless drivers cause accidents and should be avoided. So, how do you evade them? How can you keep your family safe on the road? Here are four top driving tips that will help you to avoid reckless drivers safely.

Defensive Driving Tips

Keep Your Distance

When you’re taught how to drive, distance is something your instructor focuses on a lot. They tell you to hold back and maintain two car lengths between you and the car ahead of you. When you notice a reckless driver, distance is even more critical. Give yourself some extra distance so you can maneuver out of their way and leave them to their careless pursuits.

Don’t Speed

When you’re speeding, it’s hard to control your vehicle, and it’s harder to react to unexpected situations that you encounter. Stick to the speed limit of the road and pay attention to the cars around you. Adjusting your speed will give you the best chance of avoiding reckless drivers and reacting to any problematic encounters.

Don’t Drive Impaired

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not the only way you can be impaired. If you get behind the wheel when you’re angry, upset, or tired, your decision-making is impaired. Instead of hanging back and avoiding a reckless driver, if you’re mad, you might be tempted to take them on, shout at them, or do something equally as reckless. But if you’re calm and collected while driving, you won’t get drawn into making a poor decision in response to their carelessness.

Move Out of the Way

If you see someone hurtling towards you at an excessive speed, move out of the way. While they’re almost certainly wrong, and you shouldn’t have to move for them, being stubborn in this situation isn’t the best idea. It can result in your vehicle getting hit and possibly sustaining a severe injury. While it can be tempting to flash your lights and sound your horn in protest, it’s much better to take evasive action and get out of their way.

Unlimited Recovery and Towing

If you need roadside assistance due to an accident caused by a reckless driver, contact Unlimited Recovery and Towing. Our driving tips will help you avoid an encounter, but when an emergency happens, our expert team is professional and dedicated to helping drivers. Give us a call on 919-790-9393.

The Most Simple Way To Change A Flat Tire

May 3, 2021 By WebGuy

As a driver, you will have to change a flat tire at some point. Changing a flat tire can seem like a hassle, but it’s pretty simple if you have some idea of the process. In this post, we’ll talk more about the most straightforward way to change a flat tire.

If you still have trouble fixing your flat, there is no need to worry. Unlimited Recovery can help you change your flat tire with speedy roadside assistance service.

Changing a Flat Tire

Get Your Tools Out

To change a flat tire, get out all necessary tools – the spare tire, a lug wrench, and a jack. All these items are essential for a tire change. You can use the lug wrench to loosen and remove the hubcap from the tire.

Loosen the Wheel

Use the lug wrench and start loosening the lug nuts on the flat tire. It would be best to loosen them before lifting the car with the jack. Move the wrench handle in a counterclockwise motion to loosen the nuts. Do not remove the nuts at this time.

Lift the Car

When all the lug nuts are loosened, use the jack. First, block the tire diagonal from the flat tire to keep the car from shifting. Place the jack under a sturdy part of your car (the car frame is ideal) and near the damaged tire. Turn the jack handle clockwise to raise the vehicle. The jack should contact the car and start to lift the flat tire off the ground.

Remove Your Tire

Once the tire is off the ground, take off the lug nuts. Be careful and make sure not to misplace the lug nuts. Remove the flat tire. Align the spare tire holes and gently place the spare in position. Put back on the lug nuts, but only hand tighten until they are all in place. Now use the lug wrench to tighten all the lug nuts. Check each nut secure and tight before lowering the car.

Lower Your Car

When the spare tire is securely in place, start lowering the car. Use the jack to lower your vehicle turning the handle counterclockwise, and place the flat tire and all your tools in your trunk.

Unlimited Recovery and Towing

Although changing a flat tire is not a complicated process, contact Unlimited Recovery for roadside assistance if you lack the right tools or need help. Unlimited Recovery and Towing offers fast and dependable roadside services for any car or vehicle. We can be reached by phone at 919-790-9393 or on our website, and we are available 24 hours a day.