Towing in Chapel Hill: What UNC Students and Residents Need to Know

Chapel Hill presents unique challenges for drivers. Between UNC's sprawling campus, the busy Franklin Street corridor, and limited parking options, breakdowns and towing needs are common. Here's what locals and students should know.

Towing Challenges in Chapel Hill

Limited Street Parking

Downtown Chapel Hill has strict parking enforcement. Getting towed by the town for parking violations is different from needing a tow for a breakdown.

Campus Parking

UNC Transportation & Parking manages campus lots. Unauthorized vehicles can be towed by contracted companies.

Narrow Streets

Many Chapel Hill neighborhoods have narrow, winding streets. This can make access challenging for larger tow trucks.

Traffic Congestion

Game days, events, and regular class schedules create heavy traffic that can affect response times.

If Your Car Breaks Down

On Campus

• Move to a safe location if possible
• Contact UNC Public Safety for guidance
• They can help with jump starts or arrange towing
• Call your preferred towing company for off-campus transport

Downtown Chapel Hill

• Pull into a parking lot or side street if possible
• Hazards on Franklin Street can create major traffic issues
• Note nearby cross streets for easy location

Around Town

• Same principles as anywhere – safety first
• Many neighborhoods have limited shoulder space
• Try to find a lot or wide spot

Common Chapel Hill Towing Needs

• Student vehicle breakdowns: Older cars, deferred maintenance
• Game day incidents: Heavy traffic, fender benders
• Parking lot battery deaths: Long-term parking without driving
• Franklin Street mishaps: Tight parking, pedestrian areas

We Serve Chapel Hill

Dolooma Towing provides full towing and roadside assistance services throughout Chapel Hill and Orange County:

• Campus area and surrounding neighborhoods
• Franklin Street corridor
• Carrboro
• Highway 15-501 corridor
• NC-54 to Durham

Tips for UNC Students

• Keep a towing company's number saved before you need it
• Know where your spare key is (or give one to a roommate)
• Don't let your car sit for weeks without starting it
• Check your battery before winter break
• Consider roadside assistance coverage

Need a tow in Chapel Hill? Call 1-877-47-PULSE – we know the area and respond quickly.