Why You Need An Active Roadside Assistance Membership Whenever You Can Afford It

April 5, 2021 By WebGuy

With a pandemic going on, the tables have turned on vehicle ownership. With people unwilling to travel on public transportation, the demand for cars increased. Not everyone can afford to make new car payments, so sales of used vehicles have grown. With the unemployment rate so high, people worldwide are cutting back on spending. That is why the idea of roadside assistance membership may seem like a luxury right now. However, in these times, it is a necessity. Here are the reasons why.

Need for Roadside Assistance

Less Maintenance

When was the last time you got your vehicle serviced? If it has been an extended time, either due to not using the car or not wanting to take it to a service location, you need a roadside assistance membership. If you do less maintenance, there is a higher chance of your vehicle breaking down on the road. You may be saving on maintenance costs right now, but it will cost you more to fix the car later. Roadside assistance can help you when a breakdown occurs.

Less Stress

Everyone is stressed out financially and mentally during this time. Many people have lost jobs and can’t afford necessities. However, with a roadside assistance membership, you have one less stressful item. If you commute to work, you will have peace of mind that you can always rely on roadside assistance no matter what. That is especially true for people that commute long distances.

Increase in Used Cars

As the pandemic continues, spending money worldwide keeps falling. If people need to commute, many are switching from public transportation to used cars. Used cars cost less and allow people to commute without being in contact with other people. However, with the increase in used vehicles, there is also a higher probability that they will break down on the road. Having a roadside assistance membership rids you of any issues faced on the road.

Roadside Assistance

Most people know AAA (American Automobile Association) offers emergency roadside assistance but check your car insurance company. Many car insurance companies provide roadside assistance in some form. Some companies pay for the service, and others offer a concierge service that will contact a service station near your breakdown location. Keep the contact information in your glove compartment.

Unlimited Recovery & Towing

Having roadside assistance service ready to help will give you peace of mind. If you find yourself needing assistance in the Raleigh, NC area, contact Unlimited Recovery and Towing. We’re ready to help. Call 919-790-9393.

Different Types Of Towing Services

March 8, 2021 By WebGuy

When looking for tow services in Raleigh, it is essential to understand what is being offered and what you need. There are various types of towing services that provide different things. Here are some of the most common towing services offered.

Types of Tow Services

Flatbed Towing Services

Flatbed towing services utilize a flatbed truck. This truck has a hydraulic system that allows it to move up and down. It is one of the most popular towing methods because it offers safety and optimal functionality.

Once the hydraulic system tilts the bed to the ground, the vehicle is attached to an anchor. It is then steadily pulled to the rear of the tow truck’s bed. These towing services work the best for heavy-duty vehicles, cars, and trucks.

The best part about flatbed tow services is that you can tow your vehicle over a great distance. The car is under less stress and will not sustain damage while transported in this way.

Light And Medium-Duty Towing

Almost all towing service companies deal with light and medium-duty towing. These terms refer to lightweight vehicles. Such services include lockout, jumpstarts, towing, and other emergency roadside services.

If your vehicle is in an accident or runs out of gas, this is the service to call. These services are for vans, bikes, small trucks, and cars.

Wheel-Lift Towing

Wheel-lift towing services are best utilized for small, lightweight vehicles. The trucks that offer these towing services have a hydraulic boom with tow bars. The bars are placed under the back wheels of the car.

The car is lifted in the air with two of the wheels on the ground. These services are ideal for when you want to tow a vehicle for a short distance. If your car is stuck in a small space, this service is perfect for accessing tight areas.

Ultimate Recovery and Towing

If you need tow services in Raleigh, feel free to get in touch with us. Unlimited Recovery and Towing has provided these services for a long time and ensures your vehicles’ quick recovery. You can contact us at 919-790-9393 for more information on the towing services that we offer.

So You Get In An Accident – What Next?

February 1, 2021 By WebGuy

It happens to the best drivers: we end up in a car accident despite our best efforts. Whether it was a fender-bender or a head-on collision, there are some necessary steps to take in case this happens.

Causes of Car Accidents

Many car accidents have the same set of causes:

Drivers distracted by eating, texting, or phone calls
Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Drivers speeding or driving recklessly
Drivers failing to adhere to traffic signs
Inexperienced drivers
Drivers following too closely
Drivers falling asleep
Hazardous weather

After an Accident

Before doing anything else, assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If there are injuries that require medical attention, call 911.

If you’ve determined there are no injuries in your car, then check with other vehicles involved. If there are no life-threatening injuries and you’re coherent, follow these steps.

Call the Police. You will need a police report to file an insurance claim. Before the police arrive, write down or photograph the other driver’s car model, make, and license plate number in case they drive off.

Collect Information. Exchange contact information and insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident.

Document. Take photos of the scene, your vehicle, and any injuries you may have sustained during the accident.

Safety. Always be aware of the traffic around you. Don’t walk into the road or the highway. It is your responsibility to remove your car from the roadway after an accident, assuming there are no severe injuries and that your vehicle is functional. Move your vehicle into the right roadway shoulder or a parking lot to avoid disrupting traffic as much as possible. Turn on your hazard lights.

Towing. If your can is not drivable, call a towing company. It’s a good idea to have a towing company and auto shop you trust in case of an accident and for general maintenance. It’s essential to build a good relationship with the people who work on your car. Call ahead to explain to your mechanic what has happened.

Safe Transport. Get a ride from someone you know to either follow your car to the auto shop or take you home.

Medical Follow-Up. If you have non-life-threatening injuries, get checked out at a doctor to verify everything is okay. Many injuries may not manifest immediately.

Unlimited Recovery and Towing

Though car accidents are scary, it makes it much less stressful if you already know what you should do when one occurs. Unlimited Recovery and Towing stands ready to assist you when needed. Keep our phone number 919-790-9393 in your car.

You Get a Flat Tire – What Should You Do?

January 4, 2021 By WebGuy

For many drivers, suddenly getting a flat while driving, especially on an open highway, is a complete nightmare. It’s scary, it’s stressful, and it’s inconvenient to have your plans derailed to deal with your vehicle’s issues.

A sudden flat tire isn’t anything to worry about, even though it’s inconvenient. Here are a few tips on what you can do and when to call for roadside assistance.

Changing a Flat Tire

When you notice you have a flat tire, follow these tips.

Stop. Pull completely off the road on the right side and turn on your emergency lights. Give yourself a large gap between your car and the oncoming traffic so you can enter and exit your vehicle safely. Extra spacing is critical when the weather or time of day makes it difficult for other drivers to see you.

Stay in car. Call any loved ones or associates to inform them you have a flat and you’ll be late for any engagements or to request assistance if needed.

Spare Tire. If you are lucky enough to have a spare tire and know how to install it, or know someone who does, go ahead and put it on. Avoid using tire plugs. They don’t work very well and could cause further damage.

Roadside Assistance. If you aren’t equipped with a spare tire or don’t know how to put it on, call a roadside assistance service such as Unlimited Recovery and Towing. We’ll be there in no time to help you get back to your life and help lift the flat tire burden off your shoulders.

Don’t Continue To Drive

The worst thing you can do when you notice a flat tire is to continue to drive on it.

Tire Damage. The tire could be damaged beyond repair. A simple problem like a nail puncture that can be quickly and cheaply repaired while driving on a flat tire will cause irreparable harm requiring buying a new tire.

Rim Damage. Driving on a flat tire can cause damage to the rims causing them to bend and warp.

Other Damage. Damage to your car’s internal components like brake lines, rotors, and suspension can be caused by driving on a flat tire for extended periods. Failure of these systems can also make driving dangerous, and you could get into an accident.

Unlimited Recovery and Towing

Flat tires are annoying, but calling a towing company like Unlimited Recovery and Towing will make your life so much easier and get you back on the road in no time. Call 919-790-9393 if you need roadside assistance.

How to Drive Safe During the Holidays

December 7, 2020 By WebGuy

The holiday season can be a time of joy and wonder for many. Regardless of what life has thrown at people, the holidays are a time to gather and enjoy the company of others safely and securely. Part of the holiday season’s wonder is the transition from fall to winter, including rain becoming snow. Both can be tricky to drive through. Safe driving tips are essential to keep the holiday season merry and bright.

Distracted Driving

One issue during the season can be complacency. Families on the road and overeager shoppers tend to be distracted while driving. Distractions increase the likelihood of accidents, missed stopped signs, and other potential road dangers. Staying focused while driving is essential, whether it’s the holidays or not.

The need to stay focused on the road is incredibly real during crummy weather, and the holiday season can feature plenty of that. Rain makes roads slippery and vision precarious, which inhibits turning and travel times. Make sure to plan for longer commutes during the holiday season. Snow adds even further dangers thanks to roads frozen over with ice.

Road Dangers

Icy roads are dangerous, and heavy snowfall or rain impedes vision. Slow and steady helps one to drive safely and keeps all four tires on the road. Longer nights in the season also make for more precarious travels, as does the increased alcohol consumption. Drunk drivers are always a danger, but the holidays tend to mean more drinkers, so be on the lookout for erratic drivers, and never drive while drunk or high.

The best driving tips for the holidays are staying focused on the road, slowing down, and getting distracted. Driving with distractions is often dangerous, but even more so during the holidays because more people are doing it, which increases the chance of accidents occurring.

Slow Down, Stay Safe

The holiday season should be a time of fun, excitement, and family. There is a temptation to drive quickly from place to place to get everything done in time, but this is dangerous. Safe holiday driving requires caution on the roads, slower speeds, and an eye on the other drivers. Doing so not only keeps everyone alive, but it also makes for a less stressful holiday experience. Travel and shopping might take longer as a result, but keeping everyone safe so they can enjoy the holidays is well worth taking it slow and enjoying the season.

Call Unlimited Recovery and Towing

If you need emergency roadside help during your holiday travels, Unlimited Recovery and Towing is ready to help. Call 919-790-9393.

Are You Prepared For Winter Driving?

November 9, 2020 By WebGuy

Drivers need to stay vigilant and cautious while out on the road in any season. However, during the winter, safe driving is even more crucial. More car accidents and fatalities happen during this time of the year. So, it’s essential to be adequately prepared for winter driving.

There are many ways drivers can prepare for the harsh conditions of the roads during wintertime. We’ll go into detail about driving tips for winter throughout this post. This way, you know you are prepared for winter driving.

How To Prepare For Winter Driving

All it takes is a patch of ice or a slippery spot on the road for a car accident. The following driving tips will help drivers stay safe during winter.

Make Sure Your Car Is Prepared

When cars are not properly maintained, they are more prone to accidents and breakdowns on the road. Drivers should make sure that their tires are in good condition, headlights are working, and the car battery is charged and ready to go before winter. The gas tank should be kept above a half a tank to prevent any freeze-ups in the car’s gas lines.

Keep Tools On Hand

In addition to keeping a car well maintained, drivers should have specific tools with them on the road at all times. Car owners should have ice scrapers, snow brushes, flashlights, jumper cables, and a spare tire (and tools to change the tire) in your vehicle whenever you travel.

Practice Driving In Winter Weather

There is no better way to prepare for winter driving than by getting some practice in. You can test out your car in an empty parking lot. Work on braking to see how the vehicle handles on snow and ice. It can seem like overkill, but knowing how to operate a car in snow and ice can be useful – it will keep you from panicking if the vehicle starts to swerve and confidence how to recover control.

Stay Safe In Your Car

Wear your seatbelt and make sure anyone else in your car is wearing their seatbelts. Children should be in your backseat. Younger kids and infants should be in car seats.

Distractions should be kept to a minimum as well. Bad weather could hit at any time and make the road a more hostile place. It’s best to stay alert and vigilant. Drivers should be looking at the road, not what is happening inside their vehicle.

Keep Track of the Weather

This last driving tip is one of the best precautions anyone can take before heading out on the road during winter. In truth, drivers need to check the weather before they decide to drive. If the road conditions are poor, and winter weather is incoming, it is better to stay inside and stay safe. Use your best judgment.

Need Help? Call Unlimited Recovery

If you need help while on the road, contact Unlimited Recovery and Towing. Call 919-790-9393 for service.

Tips For Traveling Safely On Wet Roads

October 5, 2020 By WebGuy

While rain makes the weather pleasant, it still brings with it many consequences. The roads get wet, and the driving conditions are not ideal. Because of this, many car accidents occur. However, it is essential to be responsible if roads are wet, so you don’t get into a car accident. Here are some important driving tips that you should follow for wet road safety.

Safe Driving Tips

Keep Safe Distance

Always keep a safe distance between your car and the car in front of you. Wet roads require that distance to be greater than dry roads. A greater stopping distance is to protect yourself and the person in front of you. With any sudden stop, you need to control the car whatever the road conditions. Not maintaining a safe distance, can result in a rear end collision due to skidding on the wet road. Avoid this by driving reducing speed and keeping a safe distance.

Keep Tires In Check

Many people get into accidents because the tires have worn treads, or they don’t have the proper air pressure. Keeping your tires in tip-top shape is why this is one of the most important driving tips for your safety. Perform regular checks on your tires by checking the tread wear. As a general rule of thumb, your tires’ treads have to be 1/16th of an inch deep to give you the traction you need on wet roads. (A quick test is the Penny test.) Apart from that, it is essential to perform a routine air pressure check and give your tires the maintenance they need every month. This way, they won’t wear and tear so easily.

Keep Headlights On

In such weather, you should keep your headlights on even during the day. Headlights need to be on so other people on the road cans see your car, and you can see theirs. It will give you and others the safety you need on a wet road.

Never Slam Brakes

Don’t ever slam the brakes on a wet road. Wet roads reduce friction and this action may lead to you losing control of the car and crashing. Always brake slowly on a wet road. Keeping a safe distance is vital in wet conditions to brake completely without hitting another vehicle.

Contact Unlimited Recovery and Towing

Any harsh weather condition calls for you to adjust your driving by following these driving tips. Road safety is no joke and should be taken seriously at all times. If you get stuck during such a situation and need a towing service, please contact us. Call Unlimited Recovery and Towing at 919-790-9393.

Why You Have To Be Careful Towing With Electric Cars

August 3, 2020 By WebGuy

With gas prices unpredictable and the continued viability of fossil fuels in the 21st century increasingly questioned, more people are purchasing hybrid and electric cars. Unfortunately, America’s obsession with fossil fuels is deeply ingrained, and that means the infrastructure to support electric vehicles can be lacking in many areas. For instance, it can be hard to find a recharging station in some cities.

Electric Cars Mean a Sustainable Future

This problem of infrastructure not only affects people who own electric vehicles (EVs) for personal use, but also companies looking to upgrade or augment their business fleets. The problem isn’t just a limited infrastructure. A lot of EVs also suffer from a lack of long-distance capability and high capacity towing. Companies looking to haul cargo long distances may not be able to use EVs.

The problem stems from the vehicle’s battery power being challenged by the increased weight with towing. Though technology and developments continue to improve electric vehicle design, they lack the power for long-distance hauling. This reason is why using electric cars for towing can prove problematic.

EV’s Are Limited but Improving Daily

As an example, personal EVs tend to have a limit of 3,000-5,000 pounds of towing and hauling capability. By comparison, a fossil fuel SUV can pull as much as 9,000 lbs. depending on the vehicle. Combined with the limited support infrastructure, EV’s are ill-suited to long-distance heavy hauling, at least for the time being.

That said, as long as the load is reasonable and the distance is within the vehicle’s range, using an EV for hauling and towing is possible. That means the overall viability of using EVs for towing and hauling depends on the needs of the company in question. Companies performing a lot of long-distance heavy hauling will have to wait for an electric vehicle powerful enough and with enough charging stations to undertake such an investment. For short distance medium loads, EVs should do the trick.

We Don’t See the EV Trend Stopping Any Time Soon

The development and support for EVs is improving and continues to grow. Unfortunately, the vehicles’ persistent problems are the need for infrastructure support such as charging stations, trained mechanics, and versatility of the cars. Hauling capacities and distances are improving, as Tesla’s claims seem to indicate. For the time being, however, fossil fuel vehicles are superior for long-distance hauling and towing. For shorter distances and lighter loads, at least, EVs will perform just fine.

If you require tow services in Raleigh NC, contact Unlimited Recovery and Towing at 919-790-9393.

Tips For Defensive Driving In The Rain

July 6, 2020 By WebGuy

It’s essential to drive safely and stay aware of road conditions at all times. However, when driving in the rain, vehicles should be extra careful. Rain on the road is not just a minor inconvenience. It can be highly dangerous for unprepared drivers. Using caution and staying alert when rainwater fills the streets. This way, the risk of accidents and injury is reduced. Rain might not seem like a big deal, but with less visibility, and relaxed driving, it can be a recipe for disaster. That’s why drivers need to be smart and vigilant whenever they get behind the wheel. Defensive driving is a must in adverse weather conditions. So let’s review the top driving tips to help drivers stay safe on the roads during rain.

Safe Driving in The Rain

It’s tempting to drive faster to get out of the rain, but this is a mistake. When rainfall starts, drivers should always slow down. Rainwater makes the road slick and slippery especially at the beginning of the storm. If a driver is going too fast, the car could hydroplane and cause an accident. So slow down and stay cautious, especially on the streets with standing water.

Keep Your Distance

In general, cars should keep a safe amount of space between them. When it rains, though, drivers should extend this distance. Water will make it harder to break and come to a complete stop. And if a car isn’t far enough away, they could crash into another close-by vehicle. A lot of car accidents occur this way. So take this driving tip seriously, and create vehicle distance on wet roads.

Turn Off Cruise Control

Cruise control is convenient when driving in good weather. However, when it starts to rain, this feature should be turned off. Cruise control can decrease a driver’s ability to control a car. Lessened control is not ideal in inclement weather.

Use Headlights

Headlights should be used in the rain to improve visibility as well. Drivers should make their vehicles more visible, but they don’t need to use high beams. High beams can make visibility worse in the rain.

Stay Aware of Large Cars

Trucks and other large cars are more likely to lose control in the rain. When driving in bad weather, make sure to keep track of these larger vehicles and give them space.

Overall, these driving tips are essential to consider during lousy weather. Driving defensively will keep drivers safe and accident-free. Still, mishaps can occur. If you ever get in a crash during the rain or need roadside assistance, call Unlimited Recovery at 919-790-9393. We are dedicated to helping drivers and providing them with roadside assistance and towing at any hour of the day!

Fluids Under Your Car- What Do They Mean?

June 1, 2020 By WebGuy

Different Fluids, Different Causes, Different Concerns

Most of us are very attached to our belongings, and when it comes to the car, some people are highly protective. When there’s a minor issue, there’s a rush to the service center to get our precious baby repaired. There are some things you can and should do on your own, but many more that are best left to your mechanic.

Are Leaking Fluids An Emergency?

Car maintenance is generally at the top of peoples’ priority list. However, this doesn’t mean that for every minor issue, a call for roadside assistance or towing company (Durham area) is required. Many of these issues are false alarms. Knowing the difference can save a lot of worries, time, and money.

Have you ever walked out into your garage or returned to your car in a parking lot and seen fluids oozing out from under your vehicle? What do you do? Does it worry you? Do you call your mechanic? Let’s look at a few things you should do before taking any drastic steps.

What Is That Fluid?

The first thing to do is to check the color and texture of the fluid. Narrowing down the type of fluid will help troubleshoot the severity of the problem.

Brake Fluid: If the liquid is brown-colored and slippery to the feel, it is probably the brake fluid. In this case, the car may be dangerous to drive. Without brake fluid, the brakes may fail. So, call for a tow and get your vehicle to a service center.

Radiator Fluid: A green or yellow-colored spill indicates radiator or coolant fluid. The radiator keeps the car from overheating when driven, so if the service center is nearby, fill the radiator with water and go, otherwise call for transport.

Transmission Fluid: A reddish-brown spill with a thick texture is the leakage of transmission fluid. You won’t be able to start the car if the transmission fluid has drained out.

Power Steering Fluid: The color and texture of power steering fluid and transmission fluid are very similar and easy to get confused. If it’s a power steering fluid leakage, the spill is generally under the front side of the car, but a transmission fluid leak will be towards the center of the vehicle.

When To Call For Assistance

Being able to identify the different auto fluids assists you with deciding on your next step. It’ll also help when speaking with an auto mechanic about your car problem. If you’re not sure about what the problem is and you’re away from home, play it safe and call for roadside assistance. Mechanical failures and breakdowns can result in considerable risk to your life, so be safe and cautious.

Unlimited Recovery And Towing To The Rescue

When it is time to call for a towing company in Durham area, call Unlimited Recovery and Towing for quick and professional service. Call 919-790-9393.