Self towing is only recommended if you are traveling a short distance. A towing service should be used if the distance exceeds 10 to 15 miles. However, when you only need to tow a vehicle a few miles it can be safely and easily towed with the right steps and tools. Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance will share the proper steps and conditions of self towing to ensure you make it to your destination safely.

Can the Car or Vehicle Be Towed Safely?

When deciding to self tow another vehicle, the first consideration is if the vehicle can even be towed safely. If the braking system in the vehicle you need to tow isn’t in working order, you shouldn’t even attempt to tow it. Without brakes, you can cause a major hazard and will cause damage to the pulling vehicle and possibly other vehicles around you. Another consideration before attempting to tow a vehicle is if the hazard or braking lights are in working order. If these lights don’t function, it is actually illegal to tow it. If these two conditions don’t meet safety requirements, it is better to contact a towing company.

Tow with Straps, Chains or Towing Bars, Not Ropes or Non-Towing Chains

Another consideration before towing another vehicle is if you have the proper towing equipment. Towing straps, chains, or a towing bar are the only tools that can be used to tow another vehicle. Never use rope or non-towing chains. It is recommended to always keep tow straps or chains in your vehicle at all times as part of an emergency kit.

How to Tow a Car with a Pickup Truck or Other Vehicle

Step 1. It will take two drivers, one for each vehicle in order to tow. The driver of the towed vehicle will need to steer and brake, while the other driver obviously needs to drive the other vehicle.
Step 2. Locate the loop anchor on both vehicles. The towed vehicle’s anchor is located in the front and the towing vehicle is located on the back of all vehicles. There are usually two sets of rings or loop holes on the left and right side of the vehicle under the bumper. Both will need to be used.
Step 3. Before you begin towing the vehicle, establish a communication system using hand signals so the other driver of the towed vehicle will know when to turn, slow down, or stop. Agree on a speed limit. It is recommended never to exceed over 25 mph when towing another vehicle.
Step 4. Before you begin to tow, double check the towing straps, chain, or tow bar, and see if they are secure. Remember, safety is key. Both vehicles will need to turn on their hazard lights before moving. The driver of the vehicle that is being towing must pay close attention to the other driver. Be ready at all times to stop or slow down along with the other vehicle. It is much like dancing. Both drivers will need to be in sync with one another. You will need to slow down, stop, and turn at the same time.

Emergency Towing & Roadside Assistance in Irving, Fort Worth, Arlington, Carrollton & Plano Texas

When a vehicle breaks down a long distance from home or a repair shop, or the vehicle isn’t functioning properly, it is wiser to contact a towing company. When you need the service of a towing company, contact Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance. We will assist you fast and help you get your vehicle to its desired destination. Contact Speedway Towing & Roadside Assistance for all of your towing or roadside assistance needs.