09/23/2026
🚛 CALLING FOR A TOW? HERE’S WHAT TO HAVE READY
Breaking down is stressful. Having a few pieces of information ready can help the dispatcher understand your situation and get the right help moving in your direction as quickly as possible.
Your vehicle information:
• Year, make and model
• Colour
• Licence plate number
Your exact location:
• Street address
• Nearest intersection
• Business name or recognizable landmark
• GPS coordinates or highway marker if you’re outside the city
What happened:
You don’t have to diagnose the problem—just describe what you experienced.
For example:
• The vehicle died while driving
• I pulled over, shut it off and now it won’t restart
• The tire is flat
• The lug nuts came loose
• The wheel came off
• The vehicle is stuck
• I was involved in a collision
Small details can change the equipment needed, so please tell the dispatcher everything you noticed.
Where the vehicle is going:
Have the destination ready if possible. This could be your home address, the name of a repair shop or the shop’s address.
Are you in a safe location?
Please tell the dispatcher immediately if you’re stopped in a driving lane, blocking traffic or in another dangerous position. This helps us understand the urgency of the call and prepare the driver for the conditions.
If there is an immediate threat to anyone’s safety, contact emergency services first.
For a vehicle unlock:
Always tell the dispatcher if a child or pet is locked inside. This changes the urgency of the call—especially during very hot or cold weather.
Your contact information:
Provide your name and the best phone number to reach you, even if the dispatcher forgets to ask. The driver may need to contact you when approaching your location or if they’re having difficulty finding you.
You don’t need to know what kind of tow truck you need.
You’re welcome to request a particular type of truck, but our dispatchers and operators will use the information you provide to determine the safest and most suitable equipment for the job.
Sometimes a flatbed is the best choice. Sometimes it isn’t.
Our team is experienced, and we know what to send for different vehicles and situations.
Most importantly, do your best to remain calm. We understand that breakdowns are frustrating and sometimes frightening. Our dispatcher will ask the questions needed to understand the situation and get you the appropriate help as quickly as possible.
Save this post now—you may be glad you have it later.