Learn The Warning Signs Of Car Problems

While new drivers are typically taught the rules of the road, best practices and safety tips, one of the areas you may feel that your knowledge is lacking is in the necessary emergency response skills. The fact is, your best emergency response starts before there's even an emergency to be concerned about. Before you ever find yourself in need of a tow, there are some things you need to know. Here are some tips to help you tackle those on-road emergencies, even if you need a tow truck.

Always Watch for Landmarks

While you're busy focusing on the road ahead and the traffic around you, you may not realize that important landmarks may be passing you by. Watch for mile markers, intersections and any other identifiable information as you travel. That way, you'll have a better understanding of how to convey your location to the tow truck dispatcher. This can make the difference between rapid response and several hours of waiting while the driver tries to locate you.

Know the Signs of a Problem

Having an understanding of some of the key signs of a car problem may help you to identify what the issue is right away. When you have some idea of what the problem is, you'll be better able to determine if you need to have the car towed or if you can just drive it to your mechanic.  Most towing companies will even deliver gas if you've run out or change your flat to the spare for you. If the problem is minor, like a rattling from the exhaust or a squeal from your brakes, you should be able to take it to your mechanic. However, if the problem is an overheating engine, a lack of engine oil or something similar, you'll want to call a flatbed to tow the car.

Have a Destination in Mind

If you're calling your mechanic to tow your car, you won't have to worry about telling the driver where to take the car. He or she will probably just tow the car straight to your mechanic's shop. In the event that you need to call a different tow company, though, you'll need to know where you're having the car towed to. If your towing coverage has limited mileage, many major retailers offer free overnight parking in emergencies. Otherwise, make sure you have the name, phone number and address of the shop where you want the car taken.

Emergencies happen to everyone. As a new driver, it's in your best interest to be prepared just in case. After all, the more you know about how to simplify a roadside emergency, the easier it will be for you to have the car towed successfully. To learn more, contact a towing company like Exit 48-24 Hour Repair.