A vehicle breakdown can happen without warning on Deerfoot Trail, Stoney Trail, downtown streets, or a residential road. Knowing what to do before calling for 24/7 towing in Calgary can protect you, your passengers, and other road users.
Move to a Safer Location When Possible
If the vehicle can still move safely, pull into a parking lot, shoulder, or side street away from active traffic. Turn on the hazard lights, apply the parking brake, and keep passengers away from moving vehicles. Do not stand between your vehicle and traffic.
If the vehicle is blocking a live lane or the location is immediately dangerous, contact emergency services. Safety comes before arranging the tow.
Decide Whether You Need Roadside Help or Towing
A dead battery, empty fuel tank, lockout, or usable spare tire may be handled through roadside assistance in Calgary. Towing is normally appropriate when the vehicle has mechanical damage, collision damage, overheating, steering problems, multiple flat tires, or another condition that makes driving unsafe.
Information to Give the Tow Truck Dispatcher
- Your exact location and nearest landmark or exit.
- The direction of travel if you are on a divided road.
- Vehicle year, make, model, colour, and licence plate.
- What happened and whether the vehicle starts, rolls, or steers.
- Your preferred destination.
- Any underground clearance, locked gate, or access issue.
Choosing the Correct Tow Truck
The right equipment depends on the vehicle and situation. Light-duty towing covers most passenger cars, SUVs, vans, and pickups. Flatbeds are often suitable for AWD, low-clearance, luxury, and damaged vehicles. Larger commercial vehicles may require heavy-duty towing.
Calgary Winter Breakdown Tips
Cold weather can reduce battery performance and make road shoulders slippery. Keep warm clothing, a flashlight, phone charger, and reflective warning device in the vehicle. Avoid repeatedly trying to start a vehicle if warning lights, smoke, unusual sounds, or overheating are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can a tow truck arrive?
Arrival time changes with traffic, weather, call volume, and truck location. Accurate pickup details help dispatch send the appropriate driver efficiently.
Can I ride with the tow truck driver?
Passenger policies and available seating vary. Confirm this with dispatch before the truck arrives.
Should I call a mechanic before towing?
If you have a preferred shop, confirm that it is open and able to receive the vehicle. After-hours drop-off instructions may be required.
Call ARM Towing in Calgary
ARM Towing provides towing and roadside assistance across Calgary and nearby communities, day or night.
