Three Reasons Why You Shouldn't Try To Tow Your Own Vehicle

You need to move your car from one place to another. You have a truck and hitch, why not just tow it yourself? The answer is, there are a number of reasons why you shouldn't. While it might seem simple, towing a vehicle requires a great deal of skill and the right equipment, if you don't want to damage your vehicle. Here are just some of the reasons you want to rely on a professional towing company.

Wrong Equipment

When it comes to hitches and trailers, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Unlike commercial towing equipment, trailers and hitches used for personal use simply can't meet the needs of all vehicles. What's even more frightening is the fact that you might not be aware that you have the wrong equipment until you're actually on the road.

For example, if the weight of the vehicle being towed is too heavy for the trailer you're using, this can lead to braking difficulty. This can increase the risk of jackknifing, which won't just damage the car, but cause a serious accident as well.

Decreased Drivability

It's important to understand that driving a vehicle that is being used to tow another vehicle is very different from driving a vehicle normally. This is the case when it comes to every aspect of driving, including accelerating and turning. If you don't understand this, you're increasing the risk of damage to your vehicle.  

For example, when you need to make a right turn, you need to ensure that you're turning wide enough to accommodate the extra length you have with the towed vehicle. If you fail to do so, you could easily swipe the vehicle on the curb and cause extensive under-body damage.

Towing Vehicle Damage

In addition to having the right equipment, you also have to consider the towing vehicle. If the vehicle you're using to tow isn't appropriately paired to accommodate the needs of the vehicle you need towed, you're likely to sustain damage to both vehicles.

In terms of the towing vehicle, you could have significant transmission damage and tire damage, both of which can be costly. In terms of the vehicle you're towing, if the vehicle is too heavy, it could actually drag on the ground and also cause damage. In extreme cases, it could even become detached from the towing vehicle, which is especially dangerous.

A professional towing company can eliminate all these risk. When you need to move your vehicle, make sure you are relying on a professional towing service to ensure your vehicle arrives without any damage.