A towing firm can provide a variety of standard and routine towing services in addition to a number of specialty services for an additional fee.
The fact that a towing company is capable of providing a comprehensive range of services indicates that the business is expanding and can accommodate a wide variety of customers.
This is encouraging news not only for the towing firm providing towing service in Woodstock VA but also for the people who use their services.
They get access to a wider and more extensive selection of services under the same roof, which is definitely beneficial and convenient.
Here are some types of services you may not know that towing companies offer:
Incident Management
This is among the most in-demand specialized services that a towing company may provide for its customers. The company contributes to the cleanup and professional management of an incident site.
The management of any crisis, whether it be a traffic collision or a natural disaster, needs to be handled by trained professionals.
When there is an accident on the road, people have little choice but to wait until it can be cleaned up and reopened to traffic. To ensure quick clearance and reopening of the road, professional towing professionals equipped with the necessary tools and equipment should be used.
Motorcycle Towing
Contrary to the popular notion, motorcyclists do, on occasion, have a need for the assistance of professional towing businesses. Towing companies that also serve motorcyclists provide full roadside assistance and towing service in Woodstock VA in order to help motorcyclists be back on the highway as quickly and safely as possible.
If you’re a motorcyclist who enjoys getting out on the open road, you may ride without worrying about the safety of your bike should it break down.
When being stranded on the road, those who own cars are often in a much better position than people who ride motorcycles since they at least have something to put their heads under. Bikers require fast assistance because they are not protected from the elements in any way.
They do not have any kind of shelter or covering. The sooner the roadside assistance professionals are able to free a stranded motorcyclist, the better it’s going to be for the rider.
Exotic Vehicle Transport
Towing companies who are experts in their field treat each vehicle as if it were their very own. When it comes to clients’ exotic vehicles, you need to pay a different kind of care and attention than you would normally. They demand specially designed automobiles that offer a higher level of protection.
Furthermore, both the entry and the exit to and from the tow truck should be planned accordingly, as exotic automobiles typically have very low road clearance and require specific ramps in order to be loaded onto the truck.
It is crucial that the measurements, weight, and shape of the vehicles be taken into account when preparing the tow truck and any other necessary equipment.
When compared to other types of automobiles, sports cars and exotic automobiles have distinct appearances including their size and their shape. If you attempt to pull these vehicles with regular trucks, there is a good probability that you may cause them physical damage.
Load Transfer
If you are in need of assistance transferring loads, including cargo, but are unsure which firm to get in touch with, the towing company that is located nearby can come to assist you.
The majority of organizations that provide towing services also provide specialist services, such as load transfer. Your reliable towing business can assist you in moving any kind of load, whether it’s a vehicle, a piece of equipment, or something else entirely.
The services of transport and towing are inextricably related to one another. Most towing companies provide transportation services to assist customers in solving their problems in an easy and timely manner.
A skilled and experienced team providing load transfer service is just what you need in the event that you are relocating either your home or your company from one location to another.
Call Shenandoah Towing LLC for Quick Response and Quality Towing Service Woodstock VA
Towing firms provide customers who are in urgent need of assistance with a comprehensive range of services. You can be assured that you will arrive at your destination sooner than you would have anticipated if you choose a reputable company.
Towing service provider Shenandoah Towing LLC is a full-service company that provides a variety of customized and specialized towing services to meet all of your needs and expectations.
We are here to assist you in any way that we can, whether you are stranded on the road because your car or motorcycle has broken down, you need assistance moving a load, or even for a fuel top-up.
Simply contact us here to send us an email!
Sources:
https://mountainrecovery.com/different-types-of-towing-services/
https://millenniumtowingonline.com/blog/five-types-specialty-towing-offered-by-great-tow-company.php
Accidents and mishaps on the road are an inevitable part of life, despite the fact that we all strive to be cautious drivers. Despite our very best efforts, accidents involving vehicles, stalled cars, as well as flat tires can occur at any time. If any of these things happen to you, you will likely want assistance as soon as possible. Tow companies and tow trucks play an important part in the recovery process precisely because of dire situations on the road. We think that everyone should always have the contact information for at least one reputable towing company on hand, just in case there is a need for towing services in Shenandoah County VA.
What You Should Know Before Hiring Towing Services in Shenandoah County
The market is flooded with businesses. It is essential for you to be able to know exactly how to identify the best option for a towing service in Woodstock VA. It’s best to avoid choosing a service that has a low probability of arriving at your location at the time you need it.
The cost is another important factor to consider. You don’t want to be connected with a kind of company that will rip you off with their exorbitant fees.
Now that we have that out of the way, allow us to provide you with the crucial information you should know before you hire a certain provider.
Towing Companies Offer Various Services
Check to see if the company can fulfill all of your requirements. Towing services involve more than just relocating a damaged or wrecked car from one location to another after an accident or other incident.
Do not make the assumption that all companies in the car towing industry operate in the same manner because some providers only offer a limited selection of towing vehicles and services.
Carefully review the service list in order to acquire a clear understanding of the kinds of towing and other services that are provided by a company.
After all, what good is it to hire a company if they are unwilling to assist you at the scene of the accident, merely tow away property, and pay no attention to the vehicle repair shop that has been recommended by an insurance company?
You Need to Check Verified Reviews
Online reviews are an excellent tool to assess a business’s effectiveness and are likely where customers will notice it first.
But, we don’t advise you to follow reviews blindly. When you have the time, read the evaluations to get a sense of how the company handles its clients.
An extremely high level of detail and attention to customer satisfaction is important. This will give you a better picture of how dependable the business is in terms of how it responds to its customers.
While it’s not always viable, a tow truck company might take steps to inflate its positive reviews. When you base your decision on the reviews, be skeptical of them. The same attention to detail may prevent you from falling for the wave of phony reviews that are all over the internet.
Inquire About the Company’s Response Rate
With a few exceptions, most tow jobs require prompt completion, including specific transit, hauling, and storage tasks.
Making the appropriate decision in choosing from the vehicle towing sector requires knowing this. Maintain a close eye on the emergency services that a tow truck company provides.
Emergency situations and unintentional traffic accidents frequently necessitate towing services. The fundamental reason for choosing a towing company is defeated if they are unresponsive to an emergency inquiry.
Your decision regarding the top professional towing business should mostly be based on how quickly and how often they respond to emergencies.
Ask for a Quote
Not every one of us has the financial means to pay whatever amount a tow truck company estimates we owe. Because of this, paying attention to the pricing is also something that should not be overlooked.
If you would like to know which towing companies offer you the unique combination of high-quality services at affordable rates, you can do a cost comparison. Even if the rates aren’t particularly low, though, they shouldn’t be exorbitantly high either.
In the end, you will be required to make a compromise because you should not anticipate the most affordable rates from the most reputable tow truck firms.
Call Shenandoah Towing LLC for Towing Services in Shenandoah County
It is important that you know who to contact for towing service when you find yourself in need of one. Apart from the aforementioned, it’s recommended that you devise your very own criteria in order to choose the most reliable towing service.
From roadside assistance to medium and heavy-duty towing service for semi-trucks, trust the operators at Shenandoah Towing LLC to be there when you need help.
Please give us a call right away when you find yourself in an unfortunate situation!
Whether you’re just moving or planning an extended vacation, at some point you’ll need to tow your car with a tow bar or hitch. If you don’t keep safety in mind, though, you could find yourself putting your vehicle and your life at risk. Follow these tips for keeping your vehicle safe while towing. This will ensure that both you and your car arrive safely at your destination!
Follow Manufacturer Directions
Keeping your vehicle safe involves a few steps. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions in order to properly tow your vehicle. This includes making sure that you have enough space and staying within the speed limit.
It is also recommended that you regularly check tire pressure, replace fluid levels and make sure all lights are working properly.
You should also make sure that there is nothing hanging from or sitting on top of the vehicle before towing it, as this can cause problems with stability and lead to accidents.
Use the Right Equipment
The right equipment is crucial to the safety of your vehicle while it’s being towed. The best way to do this is to have a tow dolly. If you can’t afford a tow dolly, consider renting one from a nearby auto shop or truck rental company.
Use Proper Hooks
When towing a trailer, it’s important to use the proper hooks. The different types of hooks are tow ball, hitch pin, spring-loaded ball, and plate style.
These hooks are designed for specific applications and should be used accordingly. For example, the tow ball is used on trailers with a 2 receiver tube (those with an 11⁄4 receiver tube require the hitch pin).
In addition to using the correct type of hook, you also need to make sure that your trailer is properly loaded. This means that all cargo should be secured and distributed evenly so as not to overload one side of your vehicle.
Adjust Sway Control Devices
Sway control devices will reduce the likelihood of your towed vehicle moving. This can be done by either placing a sway control device on the towed vehicle or installing one on the tow vehicle.
The type of sway control device you should use depends on what type of towing you are doing and what kind of terrain you are driving over.
Consult your owner’s manual or call a certified mechanic if you are unsure which kind of sway control device is right for your towing needs.
Understand How Tow Ropes Keep Your Vehicle Safe
Tow ropes are designed to absorb energy when they are pulled taut. This means that the rope will stretch, absorbing the force of the impact and thereby keeping your vehicle safe. However, tow ropes need to be properly maintained in order to make sure they are safe and effective.
Tow ropes should be inspected at least once a year with any loose stitching repaired, or replaced if necessary. The last thing you want is your tow rope failing while you’re on the road!
Get Professional Towing Service Woodstock, VA: Shenandoah Towing LLC
A professional towing service can ensure that your vehicle is in good hands and will be towed safely and securely.
If you are looking for emergency or other towing-related services such as roadside assistance, tow truck services, and wrecker services, look no further than Shenandoah Towing LLC. We offer 24-hour towing services in Woodstock, VA.
Contact us today to learn more about our services.
We Americans love getting out and doing stuff, whether it’s taking the boat down to the lake for some fishing, or taking the dirt bikes out on a trailer for a ride. Having the freedom to drive not only ourselves and our families around, but also our toys like boats and bikes is truly a privilege. Although a harsh reality of this is that there are over 50,000 towing related accidents each year according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA). That’s why we offer towing services in Mount Jackson, VA.
This shouldn’t (and probably wouldn’t) put you off though, instead, it emphasizes the importance of being careful when towing things. As a professional provider of towing service Woodstock VA, we believe we have the knowledge to keep you and your family safe when towing anything. By sharing with you how to go about safely towing trailers, boats, RVs, and anything else, we hope that we can limit your need to call us at 540-481-0658 for our towing service.
Here are some of our best tips on how to safely tow boats, trailers, and anything else.
Work With An Experienced Professional – Towing Mount Jackson VA
If it’s your first time driving with a trailer, then you may wish to ask around to see if anyone you know can sit in with you to help you build confidence.
Trailers completely change the weight distribution of your vehicle, and if anything they add a lot more length to your vehicle than most are used to.
Before taking the boat down to the lake with the family, you should get some experience with lighter trailers first followed by heavier loads. If your street is quiet that may be the best place to practice, graduating onto any nearby rural highways, and finally a freeway.
Don’t Rush
Sporadic behavior in a car is dangerous enough, but add a heavy trailer into the mix and you can really harm yourself, your passengers, and other people on the road.
One of the most important things to do when driving with a trailer is to take your time, this is because at higher speeds you will have much less control over the movement of the trailer, and it will retain momentum even if you brake suddenly.
When speeding with a trailer one will notice it starts to wobble from side to side, if you notice this don’t brake suddenly, instead calmly reduce speed. Towing speed limits are there for the safety of all people on the road and usually range between 55mph and 65mph depending on the state.
Respect the Capacity, and Distribute Weight Evenly – Towing Mount Jackson VA
Your trailer will have a carrying capacity that determines how much weight it can carry safely, which incorporates both stationary and in-transit. Exceeding the weight capacity of your trailer will affect the handling of your vehicle and limit the stopping power of your brakes. It can also damage the suspension, drive train, and engine, so be sure to respect your load restrictions.
On top of this, weight capacity usually refers to the entire flatbed and not any single point on the trailer, so be sure to distribute the weight of whatever you’re carrying evenly. Not doing so can affect the handling and brakes, and can drag you off the road or into oncoming traffic. You should also ensure that the load is secure so that the weight isn’t shifting while you drive.
Inspect and Maintain both Trailers and Vehicles
Regular inspection and maintenance of both trailers and vehicles can ensure that both are in working order and won’t suddenly cause an accident. There are many parts that can malfunction on both a trailer and a car, so enacting regular checks can greatly reduce the chance of an accident.
Invest in Relevant Equipment
While that NHTSA report makes it seem like trailers are unsafe, they are substantially safer than their antiquated counterparts. In fact, towing technology is constantly evolving and producing more equipment that can further enhance the safety of towing trailers. Things like tow mirrors can eliminate the blind spot caused by a long trailer, and safety chains can ensure the trailer doesn’t get embedded in the concrete if it does somehow come off the hitch.
Using Towing Mount Jackson VA
Even if you invest in the highest quality safety gear for towing, you may still find yourself a victim of another driver’s mistakes and end up in an accident with your trailer. Prepare for this by having relevant emergency equipment in your car at all times, including a first-aid kit and the phone number of a local towing service.
If you’re looking for a towing service Woodstock VA, then you’re in luck. We’re based in Shenandoah and have years of experience in towing, and can also offer both roadside repairs and in-house repairs at our autoshop. Be sure to write down our number to put with your first aid kit in case of an accident.
Traffic accidents are inevitable in this day and age, and can happen whether we do our best to avoid them or not. While many collisions are minor, it doesn’t take much to make a car unusable, which will then require some heavy lifting. That’s where towing New Market has come in handy, often only a quick call away, these trucks are specially-built to help move damaged vehicles.
Although a tow truck isn’t always the first thing someone thinks of calling, often people will try and start their car after an accident to try and move it. In some cases with just a minor collision, this is fine, but more serious crashes can make it dangerous for both you and other drivers on the road. Beyond this it’s relatively common for people to use their ute or truck as a tow vehicle, which can pose a range of problems to the driver, others on the road, and the vehicle.
As a towing service in New Market VA, we believe it’s important for our customers to know about these dangers and why they should instead call us.
Here is a look at the dangers of trying to drive a damaged vehicle or towing with a D.I.Y towing rig.
Before Driving Away After an Accident – Towing New Market VA
Once you’ve shared relevant insurance information after an accident, it may be time to get back in your vehicle and drive away. Before you do so, you may want to check the following parts are still functioning so you know its safe:
- Headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals – these need to be in working condition to drive legally
- Mirrors – legally you need two functioning mirrors to drive, while the rear-view may not be damaged if you’ve lost both side mirrors you shouldn’t drive
- Leaking fluids – if your vehicle is leaking fluids driving it may pose certain risks. If it’s leaking coolant you risk overheating, if it’s leaking fuel you risk a fire.
- Bent or broken wheels – you should thoroughly inspect your wheels and axles for any signs of damage, and if it feels wrong, don’t drive
- Hood won’t latch – front on collisions will usually affect the hood latch which can then threaten to swing up and impair your vision while driving
- Broken glass – this will take some common sense, as a broken side window may not impair your ability to drive but any cracks in the windscreen will
It’s important to be able to use your judgment when assessing your vehicle after a crash to determine how serious it is. One great indication is any injuries you may have received, the more severe they are the more damaged your car is likely to be.
Dangers of DIY Towing – Towing New Market VA
If your vehicle is too damaged to drive, but you are keen to get it off the road or to a mechanic, you may wonder about the viability of DIY towing. Many modern utes and trucks are outfitted with winches which insinuate the ability, but do not come with the technology that tow trucks rely on. A common anecdote at our towing service Woodstock VA is having to take a couple of tow trucks out to pull a DIY tow vehicle out of a ditch, where the job could have taken one vehicle we now see 2 or more damaged.
There are a few major concerns when it comes to DIY towing, which we will explore below.
Ill-Equipped
Tow trucks come equipped with all kinds of special equipment which aren’t publicly accessible or efficiently operable without relevant experience. Even with a tow rope and several hitches, most vehicles will struggle to safely move others and can threaten damage to either, or other vehicles on the road. Tow trucks keep vehicles at a safe distance behind them, and connect in more than one way to ensure the vehicle stays with the truck.
Exceed the Maximum Capacity
Vehicles are only equipped to carry so much, and when we exceed the maximum weight our vehicle is expected to carry it begins to create other risks to both vehicles as well as others on the road. If the max capacity is exceeded the towing vehicle may experience external damage where the vehicle is connected, or damage to the transmission or engine.
Working With A Professional Towing New Market VA
If you’ve ever driven with a trailer, then you’ll know that it is vastly different from driving a car alone. A common mistake we have heard about at our towing service Woodstock VA is that the DIY towing vehicle’s driver either under- or over compensated for the weight of the other vehicle. This can lead to fishtailing, and in extreme situations even more accidents and injuries.
Since their invention, cars have gone through a number of massive changes which have greatly improved their safety. Even such things as seatbelts are relatively new, having only been standard practice since 1964, when automotive safety became a priority. Since then, cars have gained a myriad of features which can help the driver to avoid breaking down, as well as getting into an accident. As a provider of a towing service in Shenandoah County, we’ve seen our fair share of both breakdowns and accidents, and are familiar with those features which can help. Although unless you’re a fan of cars, many of these features may seem a bit complex, given their misleading names. By understanding the relevance of each feature, you’ll be able to confidently seek out a car which is not only safe, but will hopefully stop you from ever needing to contact us about our towing service in Woodstock VA.
Here is an overview of the modern features in cars which help to improve their safety.
Airbags Can Prevent Towing
Like seatbelts, airbags were around for some time before they became commonplace in every car. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1990s, almost 40 years after they were invented, that driver airbags became a standard feature in low-end cars. Shortly after that in 1998 airbags became mandatory in all cars.
Nowadays cars are outfitted with a range of airbags to ensure the safety of the driver and all passengers should the car face any impact. You should find a car with:
- Driver airbag installed in the steering wheel, with thorax protection if desired
- Passenger airbag on top of the glove compartment, or in the upper right of the dash
- Side curtain airbags installed in the top of the door rails
- Center airbags installed on the inboard side of the driver’s seat
On top of these, you may also seek out knee-bolster airbags, seatbelt airbags, and pedestrian airbag modules. The safety of airbags has increased greatly, and they can save you and your passengers from death or serious injury.
Anti-Locking Braking Systems (ABS)
To the novice, brakes locking up may sound like enough to stop a car, although that’s exactly the problem. When brakes lock up in a car, the car may carry on its momentum and slide into more objects. ABS has stopped this by providing steering control while the car is braking on wet and slippery surfaces, allowing you to point the car to safety. This system can be expected in almost every new car, but be sure to ask whether any cars you’re considering have it.
Crumple Zones
Prior to crumple zones in cars, in the event of a crash, the momentum would transfer to those within the vehicle, leading to devastating results. Crumple zones are essentially parts of the car that would absorb some of the impact should you crash/be crashed into. This is achieved by identifying the weaker parts outside of the vehicle, and strengthening the inside. What this often means is that the front or rear end of the car will be crushed, rather than transferring the momentum to those inside.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
While many of us are familiar with the anagram of ESC as the “Escape” function on our computer, and the acronym of ESP being related to telekinesis, these features are imperative in the modern car. Electronic stability is a car safety feature which detects loss of traction to a car’s tires, and can also apply to the brakes to prevent skidding and aid the driver steer in a controlled manner. It first came about in 1983, and only took 7 years to become standard throughout the industry, saving countless lives.
Rear-Facing Cameras
While not so helpful during a breakdown or car crash, rear-facing cameras are an invaluable tool to those who have children and pets. They allow the driver to see exactly what is behind and seemingly beneath the back of the car. The first one goes back to a Buick in 1956, and although they’ve been around for some time, they still aren’t as common as they should be. These are a must-buy for parents and pet owners, and have undoubtedly saved families from immeasurable heartbreak.
Towing Service Shenandoah County
Having all the safety features in the world may not save you from the Fates which can throw anything at us at any time. As a provider of a towing service Woodstock VA, we are well aware of this, and are ready to help you during a breakdown or accident. Be sure to write our number down and put it with your insurance information.
Contact us today for our towing service in Shenandoah county!
Owning a car is quite different nowadays compared with much of the 20th century, when they were still a relatively new invention. These days however, cars are commonplace in most households, and are a commonly used method of transportation. As a provider of towing in Edinburg VA, we believe in maintaining your car to avoid having to call upon us unnecessarily. Most people will take their car for a ‘service’ annually, which usually involves checking the rudimentary functions of the car such as the brakes and headlights. Although depending on the age of the car and amount of use it’s getting, you may need to check it in between, if specific repairs or upgraded need to occur. Here is a look at the less obvious car maintenance checks which can keep your car going.
The Routine Checkup
As previously mentioned, most people will take their car for an annual checkup with their local mechanic. The following is what mechanics will evaluate when looking at your vehicle:
- Engine Oil and Filter – These usually need to be changed every 5,000 miles
- Coolant / Antifreeze – These need to be replaced annually
- Brakes – All elements of the brake system need to be checked annually, including brake fluid, brake lining, rotors and pads
- Tires – The pressure and condition should be checked regularly, with a tire rotation occurring every 5,000 miles
- Battery – Check that it’s mounted securely and not corroded
Many of the people who contact us about our towing service in Woodstock VA failed to check or maintain one or more of the above features. While ensuring these parts are functioning correctly can rule out a huge variety of problems, there are other parts which benefit from regular checking and maintenance.
What to Check Immediately
Modern cars have many lights and dials which can indicate to drivers the types of issues that are taking place. The two most common indicators are the ‘Check Engine Light’ and ‘Tire Pressure Light’.
Check Engine Light
This light indicates that the electronic control system in your car has run into a problem which it can’t fix. There are a variety of issues which could cause this light to turn on, including:
- Loose cap on the fuel tank – a common reason for the light to turn on which may occur immediately after filling up
- Catalytic Converter failure – this plays a critical role in the exhaust of your car and while it isn’t a complicated fix, it can be expensive
- Oxygen (O2) sensor fault – this can cause problems with the catalytic converter and should be fixed asap
- Ignition coil or spark plug failure – only a problem in cars which run on gasoline (not diesel), these problems can be mistaken for one another
- Airflow sensor failure – this checks how much air is entering the engine and tells the car’s computer how much fuel should go in. Problems with this are usually caused by the air filter
Tire Pressure Light
Unlike the check engine light, the tire pressure light indicates exactly what the problem is, namely that the tires are losing air. This could be due to a variety of reasons, and regularly checking and changing your tires can mitigate this problem.
Faulty Headlights or Indicators
If one of your lights goes out, check the fuse immediately as often that is the cause. If that doesn’t fix it make sure to replace the bulb as soon as possible, otherwise you may risk getting a ticket
Broken or Noisy Wiper Blades
A relatively common problem in older cars or those used heavily, the wiper blades are prone to malfunction and can cause a cacophony when left unaddressed. Thankfully, replacing wiper blades is generally affordable and easy, with most car part shops offering the service for a small fee.
Other Types Of Car Maintenance Checks
After all of the above checks, the final few are either specific to certain vehicles or certain circumstances. These can include:
- Automatic Transmission Fluid – only relevant to automatics, this needs be done while the engine is running and more information can be found in the owner’s manual
- V Belts and Serpentine Belts – these should be tight, if they’re frayed or worn then replace them
- Hoses – the various hoses underneath your car should be in good condition, any cracks and tears will require the hoses to be replaced
- Power Steering Fluid – check while the car is warm and top up if necessary, if top ups become frequent check for leaks
- Exhaust – inspect for leaks and damage and listen for any strange sounds it may be making, repair immediately if any faults are identified
- Chassis Lubrication – unless your car is “lubed for life” (check owner’s manual or online) then you may need to get the chassis, steering and suspension systems lubed.
We Offer Towing in Edinburg, VA
For information about whether our auto repair facility can help with any of the above maintenance checks, or to find out more about our towing service in Edinburg VA, get in touch with Shenandoah Towing, today!
Whether it’s a small collision with another vehicle, or your car has simply cut out on the highway, accidents do happen. Realizing the normality of these situations before they occur can help you to mentally, emotionally and physically prepare for their occurrence. For most people, the extent of their current car accident preparation kit is usually just the scrawled name and number of a towing service. Residents aren’t strangers to the huge variety of problems that can occur on their roads, and some were able to give astute advice for things to have in an accident prep kit for towing Strasburg VA.
We’ve taken their knowledge and put some facts behind it to help you prepare an accident preparation kit which can save you time, money, and stress.
Have Your Papers In Order and Ready – Towing Strasburg VA
Whether you hit someone else, or simply damaged public property, an inevitable part of the post-accident process is the handing over of personal and insurance details. During this time directly after a crash, tensions are understandably high, and having to contact home or dig through your car to find your documents can be stressful for all parties involved. Make sure to have the following in a water-proof folder:
- Drivers License – you should have this on you at all times when you’re driving, as it is required by law
- Insurance Documents – have all relevant insurance information printed and ready, it may even help to have spare copies you can give to others if need be
- Relevant Emergency Numbers – this can include a family member or friend who can help in emergencies, as well as the number of your local mechanic and local towing Strasburg VA residents can use 540-481-0658
- Personal Medical Information – any personal medical information that you believe may be relevant can also be kept with this other information.
Have a First-Aid Kit Ready
While most car owners will know exactly where their first-aid kit is in their car, there are still many people who don’t realize their importance. Having a first-aid kit isn’t simply to try and fix any medical problems that occur, but they can buy you or others precious time while getting to the hospital. A good first-aid kit should contain:
- Cotton balls
- Cotton swabs
- Vaseline
- A digital thermometer
- Tweezers
- Curved scissors (the medical kind used for cutting clothes)
- Adhesive Band-Aids for covering cuts
- Gauze pads for treating wounds
- Safety pins for closing bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antiseptic and hydrocortisone cream for skin inflammation and rashes
- Antihistamine for allergic reactions
- Antiseptic wipes to sanitize your hands
- Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or other pain relieving medication
- Aloe Vera to treat mild burns
- Insect bite relief pads
- A needle
- Hand sanitizer
- Saline solution for eye washing or cleaning wounds
Thankfully you won’t need to buy all of these items individually, they often come packaged and can be found in most department stores.
Mental First-Aid
As one can imagine, regardless of how good you are at stress management, a car accident can be incredibly stressful and anxiety-inducing. If you’re prone to anxiety then you may consider preparing some things which can help you to calm down and remain calm. These could be:
- A bottle of water – hydration can help break through shock response
- Something sweet like chocolate or candy – these can cut through any dizziness you may feel after a crash
- A comforting smell – whether it’s your favorite essential oil or something that smells like your partner, smell is a great sense to use to ground oneself
- A stress ball – if you’re easily aggravated a stress ball can help you to focus on the matter at hand
- Spare anxiety relief medication – if you’re currently medicating for anxiety, putting one pill in your mental first-aid kit can give you the means to calm yourself down quickly
Unlike the first-aid kit, this can be made of whatever you want, and is only meant to help you to calm down enough to deal with the accident.
Other Useful Items
There are some other things which may help in certain environments, such as a warm blanket for those who live in a cold climate. You may also want to prepare a spare set of clothes just in case something happens to the ones you’re wearing and you can’t make it home to change immediately.
Car Accident Preparation: Towing Strasburg VA
Preparation is important, but accidents are sometimes unavoidable–especially those that are caused by other drivers. Having been in the industry for several years now, we’ve seen how people can make their situation exponentially worse by not dealing with their crash in a calm manner. That’s why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to help people find ways to prepare for what truly is inevitable, and to have more in the way of preparation than just the number of a towing service in Woodstock VA.
However, if that time should come that you need a tow or roadside assistance, contact us today!
If you’ve come across this article, chances are you’re looking for a local towing service for emergency breakdowns and the like. While it’s good to be prepared by having the necessary numbers for such services such as roadside Assistance in Woodstock, there is also wisdom in exploring preventative measures. Cars can stop working for any number of reasons, ranging from the mundane to the highly technical. Most modern cars claim to more-or-less look after themselves, which in turn has reduced general consumer competency when it comes to maintaining them. Doing these checks yourself can save you both time and money, as well as increase the longevity of your car.
Here is some basic car maintenance you can do at home.
Checking and Changing Oil
If you don’t mind getting a little dirty, and are happy to invest in some tools that will pay for themselves in savings, then change your own oil and filter. Before doing any of this though, it’s important to consider the frequency at which oil should be changed. Experts will generally state that oil should be changed every 3,000 miles, but as I have a relatively new car I will usually change mine every 5,000 miles. The frequency you should change your oil depends on the age and condition of your car: every 3,000 miles for older cars; every 5,000 miles for newer.
Always make sure your engine isn’t hot when checking or changing oil, if you have recently driven to the store to buy the tools allow the car to cool down for an hour or two.
Checking Oil
You will need:
- An old rag
- Pop the hood of the car and unscrew the dipstick, carefully pulling it out.
- Wipe the dipstick down with the rag and screw it back down, leave for a moment before pulling it out to check.
- There should be indicators on the dipstick to show you how much oil there should be, if you’re low it might be time for a change.
Changing Oil
You will need:
- A car jack or a couple of small ramps which you can drive up onto
- Ratchet
- Oil filter wrench
- Oil pan
- Funnel
- Make sure the engine has had plenty of time to cool first.
- Use the ramps or jack to lift the car, get underneath and locate the oil pan.
- Unscrew the drain plug and drain the old oil into your oil pan. Once it has all drained, replace the drain plug.
- Locate the oil filter in the engine and carefully remove using the oil filter wrench, mind the filter contains old oil too.
- Lubricate the rubber gasket on the new oil filter with your new oil.
- Fill the new oil filter to about two-thirds with new oil.
- Screw in new oil filter, hand-tighten only.
- Using your funnel with the engine with new oil.
And voila! You’ve changed the oil and are now slightly less likely to need roadside assistance in Woodstock VA. Locals that I’ve spoken with about changing oil have said they’re happy to help their neighbors, so don’t hesitate to ask around if you need any help.
Air Filter
After changing your oil, changing your air filter will seem incredibly easy. This should be done every 12 months or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Changing your air filter can be done with zero tools and experience, and can only take about 10 minutes.
Changing Air Filter
You will need:
- A new air filter for your car
- Pop the hood up and locate the air filter, it should be in a black rectangular box with metal clips on the side. Check your owner’s manual if you don’t see it.
- Open the casing and take a photo of how the air filter is sitting in the box, making note of which way it’s facing.
- Remove the old air filter and dispose of it appropriately, put the new air filter in exactly how the other one was set (refer to photos or notes).
- Close the metal clips and close the hood.
Other Simple Car Maintenance Checks You Can Do Yourself
Once you’re comfortable changing the oil and air filter, you may be keen to discover what else you can check on your car. There are a huge number of things which can be done with minimal tools and experience, just be sure to not overextend yourself and leave the big jobs to the pros.
Roadside Assistance Woodstock VA
Despite any amount of maintenance checks we do, accidents do happen. We here at Shenandoah are well aware of this, and are in the business of coming to the rescue with our professional towing, roadside assistance and repair in Woodstock VA.
Contact us if you’re ever in a pinch or would like to know more about our services beforehand in case such an emergency does occur.
Before calling us for our towing service and roadside assistance in Woodstock VA, it’s helpful to know whether or not your call simply needs a roadside repair. Breakdowns occur for any number of reasons, and there are usually some signs which can indicate why.
The price difference between a towing service and a roadside repair can be quite substantial. So knowing which one you need when your car breaks down can save you both time and money.
Here are some telltale signs of whether your broken down car needs a tow or a roadside repair.
Common Causes of Breakdowns
There are a handful of things which can account for a majority of cars breaking down on the side of the road. Recognizing signs of these can empower you to find your own solutions before needing to call for professional help.
Out of Gas
Running out of petrol or diesel is something that probably 90% of drivers will face at some point or another. The most common reason for running out of gas is poor planning, as your car’s tank will hold a certain amount of gas, which will take it a certain amount of miles. Whether you’re running late for work, on a road trip, or simply running around doing errands; it’s always important to keep an eye on your fuel gauge.
Some tips to help you from running out of gas include:
- Fueling your car up regularly on the same day at the same time each week.
- Checking how many miles your car does on a full tank, and recognizing each section of the fuel gauge as telling you how many miles you can drive.
- Filling your car completely when you do put gas in, instead of just putting $10 or $20 at a time.
- Having a jerry can full of petrol in your boot or somewhere safe in your vehicle.
Flat Battery
The most typical cause of a flat battery is leaving the lights on when the engine’s off. Although driving lots of short journeys, having many devices plugged in, or small faults in the battery’s connection can cause this too.
The best thing you can do to avoid this is to get into the habit of turning your lights off the second you arrive at your destination. Also getting your car regularly serviced, and not being shy about buying a new battery every few years if your current one seems worn at all. Also having jumper cables in your boot will allow you to bring your car back to life with the help of a nearby “good Samaritan”.
Flat Tire
Another painfully common cause of breakdowns, a flat tire can occur for any number of reasons. It could be due to something sharp on the road, or perhaps the tread has worn down too much. Regularly checking your tread, as well as replacing your tires with high quality replacements can help to avoid this problem. Also be sure to have a good quality spacer easily accessible somewhere in the car, as well as the tools to change it.
Bigger Problems
All of these problems can be solved by oneself on the side of the road, but there are many other causes of breakdowns which can’t. Here are some of the bigger problems, and whether you should call for a towing service or roadside repair. We offer both roadside assistance in Woodstock VA, so having our number written down can be a great help.
- Too much or too little engine oil can cause a range of problems – depending on the severity of the problem, roadside assistance can top your engine up. Otherwise a towing service can take you to a mechanic to have the engine flushed and oil refilled.
- Engine overheating – as with engine oil problems, overheating can have a few different causes and effects. If there’s steam coming from your engine get in touch with a nearby towing service, and don’t touch your bonnet!
- Traffic accidents – regardless of who is to blame, traffic accidents happen, and your first concern should be your own safety, then that of the people in the other vehicle. Depending on how bad the accident was you may need to call a towing service to move your vehicle.
Roadside Assistance Woodstock VA: If You’re Not Sure, Give Us a Call!
If you’ve had a breakdown and none of these given problems are to blame, then you may want to give us a call. We provide both roadside assistance in Woodstock, as well as a professional towing service.
So if you need help, give us a call today!