Towing trucks are vehicles that can be used to transport or recover cars, trucks, buses or other vehicles that may have broken down on the road. Towing services are typically provided by private businesses, but some government agencies and other organizations also own their own tow trucks.
The demand for tow truck services has increased in recent years because of a number of factors. The rise in traffic and a volatile economy have resulted in an increase in accidents and other vehicle issues that require towing.
In addition to towing, many tow companies offer other services that help drivers get their vehicles fixed and back on the road. These include roadside assistance and battery replacement services.
When you need a towing service, you want to choose the right one for your specific situation. For example, if you own an all-wheel drive, you should make sure that the tow company can send a towing truck that is designed for that type of vehicle.
There are several different types of tow trucks on the market today, each with its own unique features and uses. These include wheel lifts, hook and chain tow trucks and flatbed tow trucks.
Wheel lifts evolved from hook and chain tow trucks but are less invasive on the vehicles being towed. Rather than using a hook and a chain to pull up the back end of the vehicle, wheel lifts utilize a metal yoke that touches the wheels underneath the vehicles being towed.
These yokes are hooked underneath the front and/or rear wheels of the vehicles, and then a hoist can lift them up into the air to be towed. This type of towing helps prevent the bumper and other parts of the vehicle from being damaged during transportation.
If you want to be a tow truck driver, you should have some basic training and qualifications. To start, you need to have a standard state-issued driver’s license and a clean driving record. You should also have a good sense of direction and the ability to work in different conditions, including rain, snow, hail and wind.
In addition to a driving license, you will need a towing certification. These are offered by some towing companies, and you can find them online or at your local driver’s license office.
The best way to become a tow truck driver is to complete a towing certification program and apply for a job with a reputable towing company. These companies often offer on-the-job training for new employees and will give you a taste of what it’s like to be a tow truck driver.
Tow truck driving jobs are physically and mentally demanding, so you’ll need to have strong physical strength, good vision and hearing and be able to handle heavy equipment. You will also need a high level of concentration to keep up with all the responsibilities involved in this career.
In order to get started as a tow truck driver, you will need to have a minimum of 90 days of towing experience and pass a level 1 certification test in your state. Once you have that, you can then work your way up to a higher level of certification. In addition, you will need to have a clean driving record and be drug free.