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.

The Plug vs. The Patch

September 7, 2020 By WebGuy

A damaged or flattened tire can happen to anyone out on the road. But, how should drivers deal with a tire that needs to be repaired right away? Is roadside assistance the only option? There are many ways to fix a tire, but here we will discuss whether a tire needs to be plugged up or patched. For less severe tire damage, either of these options can be an acceptable repair choice. You want to consider how extensive the damage to your tire is.

Tire Plugs vs. Tire Patches

Tire Plugs

Tire plugs are easy to use and extremely convenient. These plugs are typically made out of rubber. So the tire plugs can fit into almost any small hole or puncture in a tire. In addition to this, tire plugs also stop air from escaping and fix tire damage in minutes, meaning that drivers don’t have to wait long for a tire repair. However, this option can be costly. So keep this in mind.

Tire Patches

Tire patches, on the other hand, require more intensive repair but can cost less. Drivers will have to have their tire removed. This way, the patch can be placed on the inside of the tire. So expect it to take more time for this repair process to be completed. However, once a patch is applied to a tire, it will stop leaking air completely.

Which Option is Better?

Tire plugs and tire patches are great options for less severe tire damage. Both repair options should be considered when trying to prevent further tire problems. In truth, it does not matter if you use a tire plug or a patch. It is up to the driver’s preference and budget most of the time.

The most important thing is for the tire to be repaired immediately once a leak is detected. No driver should ignore tire damage. When you let a tire deflate, driving on it will make it worse. This deflation can be highly dangerous when someone is driving on the road.

Call Unlimited Recovery

If you are stuck on the road due to tire issues or need help repairing your car, call Unlimited Recovery. Our company can help tow cars and will provide drivers with fast and reliable roadside assistance. We are based in the Raleigh area and will assist anyone who is experiencing car trouble. Unlimited Recovery has many years of experience and offers twenty-four-hour roadside support. So call us today or anytime you need help during an emergency! Our number is 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!

First Things To Check For If Your Car Won’t Start

December 2, 2019 By WebGuy

Stay Calm, it’s Not the End of the World

Do you freak out when you turn that key, and nothing happens? Are you late getting places because your car won’t start? Have these embarrassing moments become so frequent that you have thoughts of selling your vehicle?

Wait! Let’s take a second look. Here are some troubleshooting points to consider to narrow down the problem.

Steering Wheel Lock – If you insert your key, but the key will not turn, chances are your steering wheel is in a locked position. To unlock, wiggle the steering wheel back and forth until the ignition locking device releases. This is a frequent problem, but easy to solve.

Empty Fuel Tank – Yes, it happens. An empty fuel tank is one of the most common reasons for a car not starting. Ensure that your fuel tank is always sufficiently filled with gas, to avoid a disrupted start.

Dead Battery – The moment you turn the key, the battery delivers current to the alternator, which triggers the whole ignition system. A dead or weak battery will result in no or insufficient flow of current to start the engine. There will be no sound when the key is turned if the battery is dead. If the battery is weak, the first turn may make a sound, but the engine will not start or the start will be sluggish. Any additional key turns will have no sound.

Listen Closely, Look for Uncommon Causes

Snapped Starter – Starter plays a pivotal role in starting a car, as it cranks the engine. A damaged starter will not allow the engine to start. A clicking noise will be heard when you turn the key. This clicking sound reveals a broken starter.

Busted Ignition Switch – If the car’s headlights turn on, but the car fails to start, then the battery is not to blame. A more suspicious culprit is a bad ignition switch.

Fouled Fuel Filter – Your fuel filter is responsible for supplying gasoline to the engine. A clogged filter cuts the fuel supply from the engine and makes the whole system dead.

Most people can solve a loose wire, dead battery, or empty fuel tank. A blocked fuel filter or broken starter will need to be done by a technician. If you troubleshoot these problems and the car still won’t start, it is time to take it to a mechanic for evaluation.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If your car won’t start – we can help. Just call Unlimited Recovery and Towing at 919-790-9393 for all your roadside assistance and towing needs.

The Safest Places You Can Wait for Roadside Assistance

October 7, 2019 By WebGuy

No Roadside is Always Truly Safe

One of the most unfortunate incidents that can happen to anyone is getting stranded on the road. Being forced to wait for help by the roadside where uncertainties arise is irritating. Many drivers are not ready to deal with an emergency where they have to wait by the roadside. No one feels good when their trip is cut short by an emergency car breakdown.

To make matters worse, most drivers don’t know where and how to park and be safe as they wait for roadside assistance. Many people get injured today when waiting for roadside assistance. In case of an emergency breakdown, the safety of the driver is dependent on where the car is parked. Are you visible to all the other drivers on the road? Can you see everything going on in your car and around you? Below are safe places you can wait for roadside assistance:

Right Shoulder of the Road

Most of the highway roads have a lane where drivers park in case of any emergency. In the case where the engine is running, and you can drive the car, maneuver to the right shoulder of the road. Pull off to the right as far as possible. Here, the vehicle is safe as it stays clear of the oncoming traffic. Blocking the roadway is dangerous for you and other road users. Not all drivers can dodge your car quickly, and you might end up getting hit.

Stay Inside the Car

If the car engine is running and not smoking or overheated, stay seat-belted in the car. The car is more visible than you, and if it’s on the right shoulder of the road, everyone is safe. Waiting for roadside assistance inside the vehicle is safer, especially if it’s night and the ETA for your road assistance is not definite. Keep the car door locked, engine running and windows closed.

Stay Away From Traffic

In case the car breaks down on a highway, and it’s safe to exit the vehicle, do so through the passenger door. If the car is in the middle of the road, the emergency kits help keep the car visible and warn other drivers on the roadway of a broken down car meters ahead. Wear a fluorescent jacket if possible and stay far away from the traffic. Never stay in the broken down car at the middle of the road waiting for roadside assistance.

Getting stranded on the road is frustrating but remember your safety is much more critical. Calling roadside assistance is the best thing to do in such a situation. If you can steer the car off the road in any way, do so before roadside assistance arrives.

If you are ever stranded on the road and need assistance, call Unlimited Recovery at 919-790-9393.

Why Do You Need to Have An Emergency Towing Service on Call?

January 10, 2019 By WebGuy

Be Ready For Anything With Emergency Towing Services

Is your car prepared for any weather condition? If you live in an area with unpredictable weather, chances are low that you’re truly ready for anything. You should make sure that the car is serviced regularly and just in case the weather becomes harsh abruptly, you should have a towing and recovery service in Raleigh NC through Unlimited Recovery on call. This read will help you understand why you need to have a towing service on standby.

You need to take all the precautions before starting any journey. Check the pressure and tread of the tires. Make sure that the emergency kit in your car is loaded with the necessary equipment and tools such as the basic first-aid supplies, jumper cables and a high-visibility vest. You should also consider having paper towels, a phone charger, blanket, and water just in case.

Summer: Since the winter seasons is over, make sure that you change your tires to accommodate the summer season to help the vehicle perform better when driven on dry and wet roads. Top up the vehicle fluids such as the windscreen washer fluid and coolant or brake fluid, and make sure that you perform regular oil checks. During the summer, your tires lose a lot of pressure, which affects your fuel economy. You should check the pressure regularly to make sure you’re not getting too low. If your battery is old, make sure it still functions properly. Your battery tends to use more energy and get more general wear over the summer months.
Winter: The conditions are unpredictable so make sure that you are always ready. Switch to the winter tires when required because they offer better grip and traction when dealing with snow and the effects of low temperature. Getting stuck in the snow or ice can be a nightmare!

You could include studded tires if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions in the winter season. The plastic or metal tire studs help when maneuvering through the tough conditions and mountainous roads. Take note that the studded tires are not fit for use during other weather seasons, so you need to stay conscious of that.

Benefits of Having a Towing Service on Standby

Meet deadlines: If your vehicle encounters a problem along the way, you do not have to worry about it, let the towing and recovery in Raleigh, NC do the worrying for you. All you have to do is to call them and the car will be towed away for repair as you go about your business
Maintain the profit margins of your business: The last thing you want to stop you from getting to that job interview or meeting that client is simple car trouble, with roadside assistance you can at lease ensure that you’ll be back on the road in a reasonable amount of time, which could save you in the long run.
Time efficient: It saves a lot of time that would have been spent looking for and calling the nearest towing company when you already know who you’re going to call.
Consistent: Instead of having to research the nearest towing companies that meet your budget, you could simply secure standby services and have a secured cost that can be estimated. A standby service offers financial security to you, you better know what you’re going to get

If you need any towing services at all, from emergency roadside towing to long-haul towing, Unlimited Recovery has got you covered.