If you’ve ever wondered how tow trucks work, this article will shed some light on the process. Wheel-lift tow trucks, for example, are compact vehicles equipped with an attachment that allows them to raise an overturned semi-truck, straighten a jackknifed truck, and transport vehicles at high speeds. Here’s a closer look. To find out how a tow truck works, read on.
Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks are Compact Vehicles Equipped with an Attachment
A wheel-lift tow truck is a vehicle that uses a pneumatic or hydraulic jack to partially raise a vehicle and drive it to its destination. This type of vehicle does not put as much pressure on the vehicle’s suspension as chains or a towing hook, so it’s better suited for vehicles that need repairs rather than being abandoned. This article discusses the different types of tow trucks.
They can Lift an Overturned Semi-Truck
Tow trucks can be invaluable in cases of overturned trucks. In Savannah, Georgia, the Police Department requested assistance from tow trucks after a semi-truck and trailer were found laying on their side in the middle of a road. An experienced tow truck driver quickly arrived at the scene and began the process of lifting the truck. The truck was loaded with excavator parts. Once it was lifted, the tow truck driver was able to continue driving the truck until it was safely positioned again.
They can Straighten a Jackknifed Truck
The first step in straightening a jackknifed vehicle is stopping safely. A truck can jackknife when it loses control. The hand brake on a trailer is too hard to reach to straighten it. Also, it is difficult to straighten a trailer if the wheels are skidding. Towing services are often called to rescue victims of jackknifed vehicles, Sneak a peek at this post.
They can Transport Vehicles at High Speeds
Although tow trucks can carry vehicles at high speeds, they can also crush vehicles nearby. Their large size and long reach make them hard to maneuver and could also crush nearby cars. Drivers should slow down when approaching tow trucks and turn on their headlights to avoid accidents. Large vehicles are also more difficult to control when traveling at high speeds. Therefore, it’s important to slow down or avoid these areas whenever possible.
They are Responsible for Maintaining their Equipment
Tow trucks are responsible for checking and maintaining their equipment, including all of the vehicles’ safety features, overhead lighting, and devices that attach loads. Failure to do so can lead to serious accidents and injuries, and a tow truck’s operator can be held legally liable for those injuries. This is why tow trucks are required to have regular inspections of their vehicles. The following are some of the top reasons why tow trucks should be regularly inspected: