Teen Winter Tow Tips
As a teenager, you might have ventured out onto the road in your vehicle because you thought you'd be able to beat the snow in your local weather forecast. Having car or truck trouble as the snow started to fall wasn't your intention. Now that you've pulled off to the road shoulder and contacted a company to tow you, what else should be done?
1. Stop Using the Phone
As you wait, it seems that there's no need to panic so you might play a game on one of your apps or call someone. While panicking isn't necessary, fight the urge to pass time with your smartphone. Not only could your parents or driver be calling, but delays could occur and you should ensure the phone's battery doesn't die out.
2. Mark Your Car
If snowfall hasn't stopped, it's not easy for anyone to see you. So you stay visible to the truck operator and other drivers, look around for something bright to attach to the antenna or stick out your window. A scarf could work. You should also check the trunk to see if your parents have stored flares.
3. Run the Engine Intermittently
Just as you want to save the phone battery, the fuel needs to be conserved too. It may be really cool, but you can't be sure when you'll be rescued; running your engine sporadically is smart. Be sure you're also checking the exhaust pipe and that it's unblocked.
4. Stay There
In your eagerness to stay warm, you might attempt to travel away from the car. The convenience store you remember passing or homes nearby could seem like valid destinations. Unfortunately that isn't wise. Walking could be a treacherous undertaking depending on the current weather. Should the truck get there in the moment of your absence, the driver could choose to leave the scene because there is no one there to grant permission. That means even more waiting.
5. Check ID
A private citizen looking to make money could drive up with their own truck. However, that person could charge much more than a reputable company. Don't be tricked; check their ID and look for company logos on their vehicle. The truck itself should display a number from the Department of Transportation.
Your winter tow should go well if you retain and use all this information. If you have more specific questions, contact your parents or the tow service.