Photo from Unsplash

Originally Posted On: https://tctruckandtrailer.com/when-to-call-for-semi-truck-towing-common-scenarios/

 

When to Call for Semi-Truck Towing: Common Scenarios

The United States economy, businesses, and families rely on semi-trucks to transport essential goods. So many people will feel the pinch when they break down, causing a logistical delay in delivering food, clothing, and other consumer goods and products.

While these vehicles can haul large amounts of cargo over long distances, they’re susceptible to breaking down every now and again. Even the most well-maintained semi-truck can experience unexpected malfunctions, which can have a significant ripple effect. In such situations, knowing when to call for semi-truck towing services is essential to minimize downtime and ensure your cargo reaches its destination safely.

After being in the industry for many years, the team here at %COMPANY% has played a significant role in getting countless trucks back on the road. We know what major breakdowns look like and how to approach them. In this blog post, we’ll explore common scenarios that may require semi-truck towing and provide solutions to help get you back on the road.

Mechanical Failure

From our experience, mechanical failure is one of the most common reasons for semi-truck breakdowns. With so many moving parts and systems, it’s not uncommon for something to go wrong, even with regular maintenance. Signs of mechanical failure may include:

• Unusual sounds or vibrations while driving
• Warning lights on the dashboard
• A sudden loss of power

If your truck presents these symptoms, it’s crucial to pull over to a safe location immediately, turn on your hazard lights, and call for semi-truck towing. When you call our dispatch line, we’ll gather your location details and dispatch a tow truck driver to get you back on the road quickly.

Flat or Blown-Out Tires

Another common reason we’re called upon to provide semi-truck towing is flat or blown-out tires. This issue can occur due to various factors, such as under-maintained tires, low air pressure, or punctures from debris on the road. Driving on a flat or unreliable tire can be dangerous and cause severe damage to the vehicle’s rims or suspension. At worst, a tire blow-out can cause an accident.

If you face an issue with your tires, the best thing to do is pull to the side of the road—assuming it’s safe to do so—and inspect your tires. If you determine that one or more are damaged, we encourage you to contact the nearest tow truck rather than trying to drive on it. If you’re in our area and reach out to us, we’ll tow you back to our shop and either repair or replace the damaged tires.

Accidents and Collisions

Accidents and collisions can happen to even the most experienced drivers and can be devastating for everyone involved. If you or one of your drivers are involved in a road accident, the collision could render a truck non-operational. In this case, towing services will be necessary to transport it from the scene to the nearest shop.

As collisions can cause excessive damage and sometimes render a truck unsalvageable, it’s crucial to seek a tow company prepared to transport a heavily damaged semi without costing you extra. At %COMPANY%, we’re equipped with the necessary trucks, trailers, loading tools, and repair equipment to tow your semi to our shop safely. If we believe your vehicle can be salvaged, we’ll perform the necessary repairs to restore it to a safe driving condition.

Fuel or Fuel Gadget Issues

Unsurprisingly, semi-trucks require a lot of fuel just to keep their engines running, let alone to travel long distances. Because fuel usage is a significant factor in the operating function of a semi, many drivers can experience significant problems with their fuel supply. Fuel issues may present as the following:

• Running out of fuel
• Contaminated fuel
• Faulty fuel systems
• Clogged fuel line
• …and more

Aside from your fuel gauge indicating your semi is low on gas, here are some not-so-obvious symptoms to look out for:

• Issues starting the engine
• Slow or difficult accelerating
• Sputtering and stalling

If you suspect your tuck is experiencing fuel-related issues, the best approach is to contact a semi-truck tow company before it worsens, leaving you stranded on a desolate highway.

Overheated Engine

Engines generate a lot of heat during long journeys, and overheating can cause significant damage to the engine and other components. Signs of overheating may include:

• Steam or smoke coming from under the hood
• A warning light on the dashboard
• An unusual smell

As a semi-truck driver, it’s imperative for you to be aware of the signs of overheating and know when to pull over to a safe location and call for a semi-truck towing company. When you contact our shop, we’ll encourage you to remain parked in a safe spot away from oncoming traffic and wait for one of our drivers to arrive.

While you may be short on time and deem engine overheating a trivial issue, remember that engine problems are among the most common reasons for semi-truck breakdowns. All it takes is one phone call and the time to complete some repairs, and you should be back on the road safely.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues can be challenging to diagnose and fix in semi-trucks, but they can cause significant problems if left unresolved. To help keep you safe on the road, here are some signs of electrical issues that may necessitate calling a tow company:

• Dimming lights
• Dead battery
• Malfunctioning electrical system

If any of these problems arise while en route, calling a tow company to transport you to a heavy-duty mechanic shop can save your truck from enduring costly damage. Most importantly, making this phone call will mitigate the chances of an accident resulting from the inability to control a malfunctioning truck.

Semi Truck Issues? Call a Reliable Towing Company

At %COMPANY%, we’ve heard every reason in the book why semi-drivers need a tow. When it comes to driving a safe truck, all issues should be considered and taken seriously. By being aware of the common scenarios that may require a towing service, you can avoid costly breakdowns, keep everyone safe out on the road, and keep your cargo moving.

If your truck presents any of the issues listed above, %COMPANY% offers immediate tow service to get you back on the road. Contact our dispatch center at %PHONE1%.