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.

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.

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.

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.

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.