5 Mistakes to Avoid When Calling a Tow Truck in Melbourne
Calling a tow truck is something most drivers don’t plan for. One moment, you’re driving through Melbourne streets, and the next moment, your car stops working. Maybe the engine won’t start. Maybe you’ve had a small accident. Or maybe your car just won’t move anymore.
In these stressful moments, it’s easy to make mistakes. But small mistakes when calling a tow truck can cost you more money, waste time, or even put your safety at risk.
This guide explains the five most common mistakes people make when calling a tow truck in Melbourne — and how to avoid them. Whether you drive every day or only sometimes, knowing these mistakes can help you stay calm, safe, and prepared when you really need help.
Why It’s Important to Call the Right Tow Truck in Melbourne?
Melbourne is a busy city with:
Heavy traffic
Trams and cyclists
Freeways and narrow streets
Changing weather conditions
Because of this, towing is not just about moving a car. It’s about doing it safely, legally, and quickly.
Calling the wrong towing service — or calling without the right information — can lead to:
Long wait times
Extra charges
Damage to your vehicle
Stress and confusion
Let’s look at the five mistakes many Melbourne drivers make — and how you can avoid them.
Mistake #1: Calling the First Tow Truck Number You See
Why This Is a Problem?
When your car breaks down, it’s natural to grab your phone and search:
“Tow truck near me”
You may see many ads, listings, and phone numbers. Calling the first number you see is one of the biggest mistakes.
Some towing operators:
Charge very high prices
Don’t explain costs clearly
Take a long time to arrive
Are not licensed or professional
In Melbourne, not all towing services are the same. Choosing too quickly can cost you more than you expect.
How to Avoid This Mistake?
Before calling:
Look for a local Melbourne towing company
Check if they offer 24/7 service
Choose a company with clear contact details
Avoid unmarked or suspicious operators
It’s always better to call a trusted towing service rather than rushing into the first option.
Mistake #2: Not Asking About the Towing Cost Upfront
Why This Is a Problem?
Many drivers assume towing costs are fixed. But towing prices can change based on:
Distance
Time of day
Type of vehicle
Emergency or accident towing
If you don’t ask about pricing, you might be surprised later.
Some drivers only find out the cost after the car is already on the truck, which can feel uncomfortable or stressful.
How to Avoid This Mistake?
When you call a tow truck in Melbourne, always ask:
What is the base towing cost?
Is there an after-hours or emergency fee?
Does distance affect the price?
Are there any extra charges?
A professional towing company will explain pricing clearly before they arrive.
Mistake #3: Not Giving the Correct Location
Why This Is a Problem?
Melbourne has:
Many streets with similar names
Freeways with multiple exits
Suburbs close to each other
If you give the wrong or unclear location, the tow truck may:
Take longer to find you
Go to the wrong place
Delay help when you need it most
In emergencies, every minute matters.
How to Avoid This Mistake?
When calling a tow truck:
Share your exact location
Mention nearby landmarks
Tell them if you’re on a freeway, shoulder, or side street
Use your phone’s GPS if possible
Clear directions help tow trucks reach you faster and safer.
Mistake #4: Standing in an Unsafe Spot While Waiting
Why This Is a Problem?
After calling a tow truck, many drivers:
Stand too close to traffic
Stay on the road
Try to wave down cars
This can be very dangerous, especially on:
Freeways
Busy Melbourne roads
At night or during rain
Safety should always come first.
How to Avoid This Mistake?
While waiting for a tow truck:
Turn on hazard lights
Move to a safe area away from traffic
Stay inside your vehicle if it’s safe
Use warning triangles if available
A good towing company may also guide you on what to do while you wait.
Mistake #5: Choosing a Tow Truck That’s Not Right for Your Vehicle
Why This Is a Problem?
Not all tow trucks are suitable for all vehicles. Some cars need:
Flatbed towing
Special equipment
Careful handling
Using the wrong type of tow truck can:
Damage your car
Scratch wheels or body
Cause mechanical issues
This mistake often happens when drivers don’t explain their vehicle type clearly.
How to Avoid This Mistake?
When calling a tow truck, always mention:
Your vehicle type (car, SUV, van, motorcycle)
If it’s automatic or manual
If it’s damaged or stuck
If it’s lowered or luxury
Professional towing services will send the right equipment for your vehicle.
Why Melbourne Drivers Should Be Prepared?
Many drivers only think about towing after something goes wrong. But preparation helps avoid mistakes.
Here’s what you can do:
Save a trusted Melbourne towing number in your phone
Know your vehicle details
Stay calm during breakdowns
Ask questions when calling for help
Being prepared makes stressful moments much easier.
How a Reliable Towing Company Helps You Avoid These Mistakes?
A professional towing service will:
Answer calls clearly and politely
Explain costs upfront
Ask for the right information
Arrive on time
Handle your vehicle with care
This helps reduce stress and keeps you safe on Melbourne roads.
Need a Tow Truck you can Trust in Melbourne?
OZI Towing provides fast, honest, and professional towing services across Melbourne. When your car lets you down, OZI Towing is ready to help — safely and reliably, anytime you need us.
Contact us or talk to our towing experts today!
FAQ’s About Tow Truck Melbourne
What should I do before calling a tow truck in Melbourne?
Move to a safe spot, turn on hazard lights, and gather your location and vehicle details before calling.
Is towing available 24/7 in Melbourne?
Yes, many professional towing companies operate 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.
Can I choose where my car is towed?
In most cases, yes. You can request a repair shop, home, or another safe location.
How long does a tow truck usually take to arrive?
Arrival time depends on traffic and location, but local Melbourne towing services aim to respond as quickly as possible.
Is it safe to stay inside my car while waiting?
If you’re in a safe location, staying inside with seatbelts on is often safer than standing near traffic.
