Calling for a tow
What to tell a tow company when you call
Last updated
The short answer
First make sure you are in a safe spot. Then tell the tow company five things: where you are, what car you have, what is wrong with it, where you want it taken and the phone number you are on. Those let the dispatcher send the right truck the first time.
What does a tow dispatcher need to know?
A tow dispatcher needs to know where you are, what your car is, what is wrong and where it needs to go, plus a number to reach you on. Those are the five things, and they are steps two to six below. Step one, getting to a safe spot, comes before you dial. With all of it, the dispatcher can pick a truck and a driver and give you an honest arrival time.
You do not need to know car terms. Plain words are fine. It will not start and there is a clicking sound tells them plenty.
How do I describe my location if I am not sure?
Use anything you can see. A mile marker, an exit number, a street sign, a store name or a gas station all work. Say which way you were going before you stopped.
Your phone map can also show a dropped pin. Some companies can text you a link that lets you share your exact spot. If they do, tap it.
Why does the dispatcher ask about my car?
The dispatcher asks about your car because different cars need different trucks. A low sports car, an all wheel drive car or a car with a flat tire often needs a flatbed, which carries all four wheels off the ground. If you are not sure of your drive type, your owner's manual or a sticker on the car will say.
If your car has something odd about it, say so. A locked steering wheel, a bad transmission or a missing wheel changes how the driver loads it.
What should I ask the tow company?
Ask when they expect to arrive and what the truck looks like. Ask what you will need to give the driver, such as a key or a payment method. Ask where they will take the car if you have not chosen a place.
Ask how they will contact you. Some send a text that shows the truck on a map and updates you when the driver is near. If yours does not, ask them to call you if the time changes.
- How long until the truck gets here?
- What will the truck and driver look like?
- Will you text or call me when you are close?
- Where will my car be taken?
- What should I have ready?
Step by step
Before you call, get to a safe spot
Turn on your hazard lights and move away from traffic before you make the call. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services first.
Say exactly where you are
Give a street address, a cross street, a mile marker or an exit number. Say which direction you are facing. If you can, share your phone map location.
Describe your car
Give the year, make, model and color. Say whether it is front wheel, rear wheel, all wheel or four wheel drive. This helps them choose the right truck.
Explain what is wrong
Say what happened in a few plain words. It will not start, a tire is flat, you had a crash, you slid off the road, or you are locked out. Mention anything unusual, like a low car or a flat tire.
Say where the car should go
Give the address of a repair shop, your home or another place. If you do not know yet, tell them so and ask what they can suggest.
Give a phone number and ask for an arrival time
Give the number you will answer and read it back. Ask how long they expect to be and what to look for, such as the truck or the company name.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to know exactly what is wrong with my car?
No. Say what you saw or heard. A dispatcher only needs enough to choose the right truck. Mechanics will find the real cause later.
What if I do not know where to have the car towed?
Tell the dispatcher. Many tow companies can suggest a shop or hold the car at their yard while you decide. Ask where it would be kept and how you can get to it.
Should I stay with my car?
Yes, if it is safe. Wait away from traffic. Many drivers ask to see who is picking up the car, and the driver may need your key or your signature. If you cannot stay, tell the dispatcher when you call.
What if the police asked for the tow?
Then the police may choose the company and the place your car goes, so ask the officer or the driver which company is coming and where the car is being taken, and write it down. The guide on towing after a car accident covers what to ask, what to do about your belongings and how to find the car later.
How do I know the truck that arrives is the right one?
Ask the dispatcher for the company name and the driver name. Compare them when the truck arrives. If a truck shows up that you did not call, do not hand over your car.
Stuck right now?
If anyone is hurt, or you are stopped in traffic, call emergency services first. Then get to a safe spot away from moving traffic.
Once you are safe, call your local tow company or your roadside assistance plan. This page is general information and cannot send help.
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