When you find your vehicle in a position that you just can't get out of on your own, you are going to need to call for emergency towing services. For example, your vehicle might get caught in a snowdrift, or you could get into an accident and your vehicle could end up in a compromising place. In both these situations, you would want to call for an emergency vehicle.

1. Make Your Vehicle Visible

First, and most importantly, you want to make sure your vehicle is visible to other drivers and the tow truck driver. Turn on your driving lights on your vehicle. Turn on the emergency flashers. If you have flares or triangles, put them around your vehicle. You don't want your disabled vehicle to cause another accident, so make sure approaching drivers can see it. You also want your tow truck driver to be able to find you easily, and the more visible your vehicle is, the better.

2. Open Up the Space Around Your Vehicle

Second, you need to make sure that a tow truck can access your vehicle. That may require moving some things around.

If there are other vehicles close to your vehicle that could get in the way of a tow truck helping you out, see if you can find the owners to relocate their vehicles.

Or if there is debris in the way, you'll want to clear it. Do your best to provide the tow truck driver with a clear path to your vehicle.

3. Get the Wheels Straight

Third, you are going to want to make sure the wheels on your vehicle are straight if you can still get into the vehicle safely and turn the wheel. When the wheels are positioned straight, it is easier for the tow truck driver to move your vehicle and cuts down on the work they have to do to safely move your vehicle.

4. Turn Off Your Parking Brake

Fourth, if it is safe to do so, you are going to want to disengage your parking brake. Your parking brake is designed to keep your vehicle from moving and will make it difficult for a tow truck driver to pull your vehicle up onto their flatbed. It would make it impossible for a tow truck driver to pull your vehicle behind their truck with the wheels on the ground.

In some situations, such as if your vehicle is on an embankment, it may not be safe to disengage the parking brake until the tow truck driver has gotten your vehicle on flat land. If you are not sure about disengaging the parking brake, ask the tow truck driver before you proceed.

5. Turn Off 4-Wheel Drive

If your vehicle has a four-wheel drive system you are able to turn on and off, you are going to want to disengage the four-wheel drive. This will make it easier to move your vehicle and will save your vehicle from drivetrain damage.

If you find yourself in an emergency situation where you need a tow, make your vehicle visible and clear space if possible while waiting for the tow truck. Also, straighten out the wheels on your vehicle, turn off the 4-wheel drive, and disengage the parking brake.

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