Help Tow Truck Drivers Safety: Proper Roadway Etiquette

Tow truck drivers have a dangerous but necessary job — they are responsible for rescuing stranded passengers and immobilized vehicles and transporting both to safety. To help them execute their duties, drivers can follow roadway rules that will help keep tow truck drivers safe as they assist fellow motorists.

Stay Alert

The best way to ensure the safety of tow truck drivers — and anyone on the road — is to stay alert. If you feel drowsy, pull over, especially at night when visibility is bad. Take breaks on long road trips and always scan your mirrors and the roadway far in front of you so you’re prepared when you see emergency vehicles.

Slow Down

If you see an accident or any type of emergency vehicle on the roadside, gradually apply the brakes. This will give you more time and space to navigate around the stopped vehicles. If there is bad weather, don’t brake too fast, or you could end up needing towing services as well. 

Move Over

In many states, it is the law that you must move over for emergency vehicles. If it is safe and there is another lane clear, try to give tow trucks as much space as possible. Tow trucks routinely need extra space, especially if they are working on towing a larger vehicle or extracting a car from a precarious position.

As you pass, you also should avoid the temptation to look at the stopped vehicles. You tend to drive toward where your eyes are focused, so keep your attention on the road ahead.

When You Break Down

Don’t assume you will make it easier for tow truck drivers if you get out of your car and wave them over after you’ve called for tow service on the roadside. You actually are causing them to be less safe because they will need to be concerned about your safety, which compromises their focus and ability to do their job.

When you break down, stay in your car with your seat belt buckled. Follow instructions precisely. They may tell you to get out of the car and climb into the cab of the tow truck. Do so carefully, under their close watch. They are trained to handle roadside emergencies, and a large portion of that training is about how to keep both you and them safe throughout the process. If you trust them to guide you, the entire experience will be safer and will go more smoothly.

Call Stauffer’s Towing for emergency roadside service, and get superior care from a team of conscientious, friendly tow truck drivers who know how to do their job right and keep you safe.