Driving Safely on Ice: Keeping Your Car on the Road

December 5, 2022 By WebGuy

Driving is a fun and enjoyable activity. However, under some circumstances and conditions, driving may become challenging. Certain conditions, such as weather, may affect the quality of the roadways. To be specific, one of those conditions is snow. Driving during winter is usually arduous, requiring the driver to be very cautious. In addition, snow produces icy and slippery roadways that make driving tricky. In some cases, when the road is already icy, it is advisable to avoid driving. However, if there is a need to go out in the winter, following these tips could help.

Tips from a Towing Company in Durham: Driving on Icy Roads

Winter or All-Season Tires

During winter, there is usually a lot of ice and snow on the road, and the car must have tires that are in good condition and can handle the streets. Winter tires help maintain good traction on an icy road. The proper tires are essential whether your car is AWD, 4WD, or 2WD.

Speed Reduction is Crucial

On an icy road, the grip between the tires and the road is reduced, even with winter tires. The right tires make this connection much better. However, speed is another factor that helps maintain control. Like hydroplaning on water, reducing speed keeps more of the tire in contact with the surface – keeping the car in control.

Keep Extra Distance with Other Vehicles

One mistake most drivers make even when the road is not icy is following other vehicles too close. Ideally, drivers should learn to avoid tailgating vehicles because the car in front could suddenly brake, requiring avoidance maneuvers. However, keeping proper distance becomes more important when the road is icy – because of the reduced surface friction, safe braking distances are much longer. On an icy road, drivers should keep ten times the usual gap between their car and the car in front of them.

Drive With Chains

Drivers use tire chains to compensate for reduced friction on snow and ice-covered roads. Only use chains if there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Using chains on a bare road can damage the tires and the road. Chains are most effective if used on all four tires.

In general, avoid driving on icy roads if possible. But if there is a need, follow these tips to make your driving experience safe.

Unlimited Recovery & Towing

In the winter, safe driving is critical due to the challenging road conditions. However, Unlimited Recovery & Towing can help if you run into trouble. In addition, our emergency roadside assistance can be there to help with any situation. Contact our towing company in Durham at 919-790-9393 when you run into trouble on the road.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.