How to Choose the Right Towing Company: 8 Things to Look For

When your car breaks down, you need help fast. But calling the wrong towing company can turn a bad situation into an expensive nightmare. Here's how to find a towing company you can trust.

1. Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance

A legitimate towing company should have:

• State business license and proper permits
• USDOT number for commercial operations
• Liability insurance to cover any damage to your vehicle
• Worker's compensation for their employees

At Dolooma Towing, we're fully licensed (USDOT 3264198) and insured, giving you peace of mind that your vehicle is protected.

2. Look for 24/7 Availability

Breakdowns don't follow a 9-to-5 schedule. A reliable towing company should offer:

• 24/7 emergency service
• Quick response times (30-60 minutes is standard)
• Coverage in your area
• Multiple contact methods (phone, text, online)

3. Read Reviews and Testimonials

Check what other customers say:

• Google Reviews – look for consistent positive feedback
• BBB rating – check for complaints and how they were resolved
• Social media – see how they interact with customers
• Ask friends and family – personal recommendations are valuable

Watch for red flags like consistent complaints about hidden fees, damage to vehicles, or unprofessional behavior.

4. Get Clear Pricing Upfront

Reputable towing companies provide transparent pricing:

• Base rate or hookup fee
• Per-mile charges if applicable
• Any additional fees (after-hours, holidays, etc.)
• Payment methods accepted

Be wary of companies that won't give you a quote before arriving.

5. Ask About Their Equipment

Different towing jobs require different equipment:

• Flatbed tow trucks – safest for most vehicles, especially AWD/4WD
• Wheel-lift trucks – good for short-distance tows
• Heavy-duty wreckers – needed for trucks, RVs, and commercial vehicles
• Specialized equipment – for recovery situations

Make sure the company has the right equipment for your vehicle. Learn more about our towing services.

6. Verify Response Time Estimates

Ask for a realistic arrival time:

• A good company will give you an honest estimate
• They should call if they're running late
• GPS tracking is a plus

7. Check Their Service Area

Make sure they cover:

• Your current location
• Your intended destination
• Any areas you frequently travel

Dolooma Towing serves the entire Triangle area including Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, and surrounding communities.

8. Ask About Additional Services

A full-service towing company often provides:

• Jump starts
• Lockout service
• Tire changes
• Fuel delivery
• Commercial and fleet towing

Having one company for all your roadside needs is convenient.

Red Flags to Watch For

Avoid towing companies that:

• Won't provide pricing until after the job
• Demand cash only payment
• Have no online presence or reviews
• Use high-pressure tactics
• Have unmarked or poorly maintained trucks
• Can't provide proof of insurance
• Arrive uninvited at accident scenes (known as "chasing")

What to Do at an Accident Scene

If you're in an accident, you have the right to choose your own towing company. Don't feel pressured to use whoever shows up first. Call your preferred company or your insurance provider for recommendations.

Save a Towing Number Before You Need It

The best time to find a towing company is before you need one. Save a trusted company's number in your phone now, so you're not searching during an emergency.

Why Choose Dolooma Towing?

We check all the boxes:

• ✓ Fully licensed and insured (USDOT 3264198)
• ✓ 24/7 availability
• ✓ Transparent, upfront pricing
• ✓ Modern, well-maintained equipment
• ✓ Fast response times (30-60 minutes)
• ✓ Professional, courteous drivers
• ✓ Full range of roadside services

Need a tow? Call 1-877-47-PULSE – we're the Triangle's trusted towing professionals.