CAR TROUBLES

Tow Truck for Being Stuck

When you want a tow truck that can pull you out of a bad situation, you most likely want a wrecker — a winch and chains hooked to the underside of your car to drag you out.

car stuck in mud van, stuck, mud car stuck in sand car wheels stuck in snow

Tow options when you are stuck

Wrecker for stuck vehicles

A wrecker uses a winch and chains hooked to the underside of your car to drag your car out of wherever you are stuck. This type of tow truck is usually the best choice when you are stuck in mud, sand, snow, or a ditch.

Thanks to stevevenablewrec for the YouTube video.

Watch on YouTube

Flatbed and wheel-lift options

A flatbed tilts the deck and pulls the entire car onto its bed. A wheel-lift uses a hydraulic arm to scoop up and secure the wheels. Some trucks combine both and can handle two cars at the same time.

Thanks to Gary Sorrells for the YouTube video.

Watch on YouTube

What the dispatcher should ask

Year, make and model? Problem type (accident, breakdown, stuck)? Location? Can the car roll? Transmission type? Drive type? Do you need a flatbed or winch pull-out?

Cost note

The final cost for a tow truck can be pretty expensive, especially out of pocket. Even with insurance, you may pay a hefty fee if you exceed the allowed towing distance or need specialized recovery.

Need help with your situation?

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