In Canada, towing becomes even more technical and challenging to execute during the colder months of the year, mainly because of icy or snowy road conditions. Only a professional tow truck driver understands how to tow a trailer safely during such harsh weather conditions. Winter towing means preparing your vehicle in advance and using the right skills to adjust the trailer’s speed and direction.
Here, we will discuss how expert tow truck drivers ensure a safe towing experience during winter:
They Keep Their Tow Trucks Maintained
Like any other automobile, tow trucks must be checked and maintained regularly. Before starting a vehicle recovery task, ensure that your towing vehicle is well-prepared for winter driving. This requires frequent inspections and winterizing the tow truck with proper fluids, and keeping tires in good condition.
Highly experienced tow truck drivers choose appropriate carriers and equipment based on the weather conditions and terrain. They also keep in touch with their mechanic regularly to keep a close check on their tow trucks’ brakes, lights, electrical system, and other safety features.
They Choose The Right Tires
Winter weather conditions, like rain, ice, and snow can significantly impact your ability to tow a vehicle correctly due to reduced grip on the road. A truck’s tire traction is an essential part of winter hauling. An experienced tow truck company always uses specialized winter tires to ensure they have enough traction to stop, accelerate, or turn their trucks with ease, even during a heavy-duty towing job.
They Choose The Right Trailer
An enclosed trailer is usually a good option when it comes to towing in bad weather conditions. An open utility trailer can also work if the cargo is covered and tied down correctly. Moving heavy loads on a trailer over a long distance can create many roadside hazards and affect a tow truck drivers’ ability to drive, which is why they must select the most appropriate trailer.
They Consider Trailer Load
The amount of load present on a trailer is also one of the critical factors that significantly impact winter towing. Things can quickly get out of hand while towing an oversized trailer on a snowy day or night. Before starting a new towing project in winter, the best tow truck operators will always keep in mind the trailer and any additional weight they have to carry.
They Install Specialized Trailer Brakes
One should know how the trailer will behave when applying brakes to avoid any uncalled-for circumstances on slippery roads during winter. During heavy-duty towing, the best way to maintain traction and steady control over peak winter loads is to install a set of trailer brakes.
The most qualified tow truck operators know the great significance of using trailer brakes, which helps them balance the braking force between the trailer and the tow truck. This way, they are less likely to experience trailer sliding or fishtailing. These specialized brakes also allow the two trucks to ease the pressure on their tow rig’s tires and handle most stopping duties.
Other Important Things To Consider
Apart from these considerations, experienced tow truck drivers also keep in mind other factors for a safe towing experience during the winter season. These might include carrying an emergency kit, keeping the trailer maintained, maintaining the right speed and momentum while driving, turning off the cruise control option, and proper trailer loading.
About Ontario Towing Service
Ontario Towing is an experienced tow truck company that provides quick and reliable vehicle recovery services to its clients. We offer different towing services, including flatbed towing, heavy-duty towing, and more in Ottawa and surrounding areas. Visit our
website to learn more about us or
contact us for personalized service.
Ontario Towing, located in Ottawa, pledges superior yet affordable towing and roadside interventions. With a gamut from flatbed operations to long-distance tows, we emphasize both vehicle safety and peak customer satisfaction in the capital territory.