Roadside assistance and towing are two services offered by Allied Towing. Roadside assistance helps drivers who have minor issues that don't require moving the vehicle. Common situations include flat tires, lockouts, dead batteries, or running out of gas. With roadside assistance, a technician arrives to help with the problem on-site. Towing, however, is needed when a vehicle cannot be repaired or restarted on the spot. Both services are helpful, but each one serves different situations. Knowing which one to call can save time and help get back on the road quickly.
When to Call for Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is best for minor vehicle issues that do not need moving the vehicle. Flat tire? Roadside assistance can replace it or inflate it. Locked out? A technician can unlock the vehicle without causing damage. If the battery is dead, a jump-start will usually get the vehicle running again. In cases of running out of fuel, roadside assistance can deliver enough fuel to reach the nearest gas station. These services make it easy to solve small problems without needing a tow truck.
When Towing Becomes Necessary
Towing is required when the vehicle has a serious problem that prevents it from being driven safely. Engine failure is a common reason for needing a tow. Other situations that need towing include serious brake issues, transmission problems, or damage from an accident. Towing is also needed if the vehicle is stuck in a ditch or mud and cannot get back onto the road. When the problem is too big for roadside assistance, towing gets the vehicle to a safe place, like a repair shop, for more extensive repairs.
Common Situations for Roadside Assistance vs. Towing
Here are some common situations to help decide if roadside assistance or towing is needed:
Roadside Assistance:
- Flat Tire: If you have a spare, roadside assistance can replace the tire.
- Lockout: Locked keys in the vehicle? Roadside assistance can help you get back in.
- Dead Battery: A quick jump-start from roadside assistance can get you moving again.
- Out of Fuel: Fuel delivery can bring enough fuel to get to the nearest station.
- Minor Engine Issues: If the issue is minor and fixable on-site, roadside assistance is the way to go.
Towing:
- Accident Damage: If a collision has left the vehicle undrivable, a tow is needed.
- Engine Failure: Major engine issues will require the vehicle to be towed to a repair shop.
- Stuck in Mud or Snow: If the vehicle is off the road and can't get out, towing can safely pull it out.
- Transmission Problems: If the transmission fails, the vehicle may need a tow to avoid further damage.
- Brake Failure: If the brakes aren’t working, towing is necessary for safe transport.
Having a basic understanding of these situations can help decide if roadside assistance or towing is needed, keeping the vehicle safe and saving time.
Choosing the Right Service Based on the Situation
Choosing between roadside assistance and towing depends on the situation and the severity of the problem. If the vehicle is in a safe spot with a minor issue, roadside assistance will usually be the best choice. However, if there is major damage or the vehicle is in an unsafe location, towing is the better option. A reliable San Bernadino towing provider can advise on whether roadside assistance or towing is needed. Knowing when to call each service makes it easier to get help quickly and keep the vehicle safe.