What to Expect from Tow Truck Drivers

If there’s any type of accident on the road that leads to vehicles getting severely damaged or generally unusable, tow truck drivers are expected to be among the first people who should arrive on the scene. They are included in the team of first responders, along with ambulance crew and police officers.

Aside from being prompt, tow truck drivers must also have a high regard for safety. They should use the necessary safety equipment to ensure the efficient towing of the vehicle. They should also wear safety gear to make them more visible at an accident scene.  

Personal Protection Gear and Equipment 

All tow truck drivers should wear everything required by the Federal Highway Administration.  This is mandated for all roadway and emergency personnel working on a federal highway. They have to wear yellow, green, or orange fluorescent safety vest that complies with the standards of the American National Standards Institute. Preferably, they should wear the Class 3 vest type, which offers the highest level of visibility.  

Aside from vests, the tow truck drivers should also wear helmets with the same reflective qualities used in the vest. For additional protection, they may wear gloves as well. 

For Safety on the Scene 

A tow truck driver should be aware of any activity in the area, especially near his truck and when he approaches the disabled vehicle. The emergency lights should be on and he must check for other cars approaching the accident zone or the disabled vehicle. These and a whole lot other safety procedures when handling the vehicle should be observed. Well-experienced tow truck drivers would know exactly what to do.  

But more importantly, these drivers should be duly licensed and insured. Personally, they should have several years of experience in the field. Being a tow truck driver is not really an easy task. A lot of people need proper training before they are allowed to drive these trucks. 

Weight and Loading Considerations 

Tow truck drivers are only allowed to haul a certain weight. It’s necessary to first determine the GVWR or gross vehicle weight rating before doing anything. The light-duty towing trucks can haul up to 10,000 pounds of weight. Medium-duty tow trucks can haul in the range of 26,000 pounds. Heavy-duty haulers can tow vehicles with weights exceeding 26,000 pounds. As the car owner, you should determine the gross weight of your vehicle so you’ll know if the tow truck that arrived can handle it properly and safely.  

Aside from the weight ratings, tow truck drivers should also make sure that winches and cables used will match the requirements of the vehicle being towed. They should also inspect everything well to make sure that they’re in good working order prior to the haul, especially all splices and connectors that will be used, as they will fasten the tow wire and hitching devices to the truck. 

On Choosing Tow Companies  

If you want to get access to the best Bakersfield tow trucks, then it is important that you find the most reputable tow company in the area. By being served by these companies, you can be sure that you’re getting the results that you expect.