When Should You Call a Tow Truck Instead of Driving?

When Is It Safer to Stop Driving?

Some vehicle problems can wait until you reach a repair shop. Others can make continuing to drive unsafe or cause significantly more damage to your vehicle.

Knowing the difference can protect you, your passengers, and your car.

1. Your Engine Is Overheating

If the temperature warning light appears or you see steam coming from under the hood, find a safe place to stop.

Continuing to drive an overheating vehicle can cause serious engine damage. Turn the engine off and arrange roadside assistance if you're unsure what's causing the problem.

2. You Have Serious Tire Damage

A minor loss of tire pressure may simply require inflation, but a blowout or badly damaged tire should not be driven on.

Driving on a damaged tire can affect vehicle control and may damage the wheel or suspension.

3. Warning Lights Appear With Other Symptoms

A warning light alone doesn't always mean you need a tow. But if it appears together with unusual noises, smoke, loss of power, strong vibrations, or steering problems, stopping is usually the safer option.

4. The Vehicle Is Leaking Fluid

A significant fluid leak underneath your vehicle can indicate a problem with the cooling system, brakes, transmission, engine, or another important component.

If you can't identify the leak confidently, avoid taking unnecessary chances.

5. Steering or Braking Feels Different

Problems involving steering or brakes should always be treated seriously.

If the vehicle becomes difficult to control or braking performance changes noticeably, move somewhere safe and stop driving.

6. The Vehicle Was Involved in an Accident

Even when a vehicle appears driveable after an accident, hidden damage may make it unsafe.

Damage to the wheels, suspension, steering, cooling system, lights, or bodywork can create additional hazards.

When in Doubt, Don't Risk It

A tow is inconvenient. Major vehicle damage—or an accident caused by continuing to drive an unsafe vehicle—is much worse.

If you're uncertain whether your vehicle is safe to drive, stop somewhere protected from traffic and speak with roadside assistance.

Need a Tow?

TowSwift 24/7 provides local towing and roadside assistance with clear arrival estimates and around-the-clock dispatch.

Call (555) 123-4567 for assistance.