Why You Should Never Tow Your Own Car

old tow truck

Cars often break down. Accidents are also quite common place with many reckless drivers on the road. When this happens, some people consider using their own cars to tow the wrecked or broken down vehicle. This seems like a great idea in theory. However, before you do this, here are some seriously important factors you need to consider.

Weight limits

Vehicles usually have a weight limit on the amount of luggage it can withstand. When you take it upon yourself to tow another car without understanding the limitations of your vehicle, you are more likely to cause harm to your vehicle and the car you are towing. This is one good reason to call a towing truck to spare yourself the issues.

Needed equipment

Towing trucks come equipped with a variety of additions that allow them to easily tow away different kinds of vehicles. That said, your truck may not be well equipped to tow another vehicle. Even while you may have a sturdy chain, you probably do not have a car carrying platform and winches to complete your set. The use of all these parts ensures that the safety measures are met.

Transmission damage

One issue that is very likely to occur when towing another car with your own car is that there is a huge likely hood of damage. Automatic cars will usually rely on the hydraulic fluid to lubricate the wheel when moving. When towing a car with its engine off, the friction that will occur is likely to wreck a lot of the internal car parts. Lack of proper lubrication will ultimately lead to damage on the car components involved.

Tongue weight

Many people often forget to consider the weight that a tow ball is able to bear. This is another important aspect to towing that a non-professional can easily overlook. If the car you intend to use to tow does not have the tongue weight capacity to tow the wrecked car, then it is very possible that the car will be wrecked in the process. This is another issue that one can easily overlook but will definitely have dire consequences.

Separate breaking system

When towing a car, one needs extra breaking power to stop the high momentum. This matter means that you will need to know the limitations that come across when towing without professional help. If you tow a car and lack the proper elements needed to effectively break, you might end up needing a towing truck yourself. This is important to remember before towing your own car.

These are only a few of the reasons why people need to contact towing companies which are well equipped to ensure that they carry out their operations more efficiently. There is no need to put your safety at risk when there are professionals willing to do the job right. Remember that there are local regulations as well that you must adhere to before simply towing your own car. Don’t ruin your vehicle or cause further damage to a broken down vehicle by towing your car by yourself.

Instead on count on dependable towing services in Parker, Colorado.

5 tips for driving a rental moving truck

moving truck

Moving from one home to another can be hectic which means you have to make some significant decisions. One of those decisions is selecting a suitable long distance moving company. You can save on costs by driving a moving rental truck yourself from U-Haul, Penske, Budget or the like.

If you have not driven a truck before, it’s size and bulk can be quite intimidating. Fortunately, there are a few tips you can apply when driving a moving truck to help you maneuver in traffic easily and reach your destination safely.

Utilize the side view mirrors

On a moving truck, you will not have rearview mirrors above the dashboard like smaller vehicles. This means that you will have to rely on the side-view mirrors when changing lanes and keeping track of your surroundings. It is advisable to stay out of tight spaces especially if it is your first time driving a moving truck.

Adhere to all rules of the road

No special license is needed to drive a moving rental truck. A regular driver’s license is enough to drive this kind of truck. However, you need to follow all rules of the road that apply to commercial trucks. When driving under harsh weather conditions, you may be required to drive below the speed limit.

Take caution when turning and stopping

Due to the weight of the moving truck, it might take more time to stop or speed up the truck. Ensure that you always leave enough space between the truck and the vehicle in front of you. Miscalculating a move around a corner could result in hitting other cars.

Empty versus loaded truck

Driving a full truck and an empty one is totally different. You should be ready to adjust the truck when it is loaded and after its unloaded. Additionally, braking a truck that is carrying heavy items is quite challenging.

Familiarize yourself with the truck

Get into the driver’s seat and understand the workings of the truck. Identify climate control buttons, adjust the mirror, learn to use the signals and windshield wipers. You can also read the truck’s manual to know the type of gas required. You also need to be aware of clearance heights for trucks when driving under the bride and other truck specifications.

If ever you don’t feel comfortable or safe driving the large truck, there are movers in Fort Lauderdale that dispatch drivers for such cases. They also provide rental truck driving as a one-off service.