There’s nothing routine about an overturned vehicle. These are the jobs that make even seasoned tow truck operators pause, plan, and double-check everything. Unlike standard breakdowns or tows, a rollover recovery is a whole different beast—part science, part skill, and a big dose of calm under pressure.
We’ve handled plenty of tough recoveries over the years—cars flipped on their roofs in drainage ditches, trucks toppled in the middle of tight intersections, even the occasional boat trailer tipped over during bad weather. Every time, the priority remains the same: safety first, then damage control, and finally, a careful recovery.
Scene Safety Always Comes First
Before anyone touches a winch or hook, we secure the scene. An overturned vehicle is unpredictable. Fluids might be leaking, fuel lines could be compromised, and depending on the accident, there may be injuries or debris scattered around.
We work closely with emergency responders when they’re on scene—coordinating timing, clearing access, and making sure we don’t interfere with any ongoing rescue efforts. And if we’re first to arrive, the operator acts fast to place cones, hazard lights, and—if traffic’s a concern—use the truck itself as a shield to protect the area.
One of our more intense calls involved an SUV that had flipped and landed on a slope just off the highway near Richmond. The vehicle was unstable, tilted at an angle, and at risk of sliding. Before recovery even started, our driver set stabilising anchors and used a secondary strap just in case the main winch line failed. That kind of thinking saves lives.
Assess Before You Act
Every rollover is different. Was it a single flip or multiple rolls? Is the car on its roof, its side, or wedged in a ditch? Are there obstructions like trees, poles, or other vehicles nearby?
A rushed recovery can cause more damage—not just to the car, but to the equipment, the environment, or the people involved. That’s why we always do a walk-around (when safe), check for loose parts or compromised structural points, and plan out the recovery steps.
We often sketch the scene or take quick photos for reference. It helps if we need to reposition equipment or explain the approach to the client or authorities.
Choosing the Right Recovery Method
We don’t just yank the car upright and call it a day. The method depends on the situation:
- Roll-Back Method: For vehicles on their sides, we sometimes use two winch lines—one to pull and one to control the descent as it rolls back onto its wheels.
- Crane or Boom Lift: Larger trucks or vans may require a heavy-duty rotator or boom lift to lift the vehicle vertically.
- Snatch Blocks & Anchors: These are great for redirecting force or stabilising a vehicle before moving it.
- Air Cushions: Not always necessary, but in rare cases we use inflatable cushions to gently raise a vehicle before pulling it.
One of our trickiest recoveries was a courier van that flipped on a curved bridge during a storm. With limited space, we had to anchor our winch line off a nearby light pole and use a snatch block to control the roll angle. It took precision, patience, and a bit of creative thinking—but the van was recovered with minimal damage.
Communication Is Key
Whether it’s a solo recovery or a multi-vehicle accident with emergency services present, clear communication makes everything smoother. We always assign one person to lead the recovery—giving signals, calling the shots, and ensuring no one’s guessing what comes next.
We also keep the vehicle owner in the loop, when they’re present. For someone seeing their car upside down, it’s already a stressful moment. Explaining the plan calmly and clearly helps reduce their anxiety and builds trust in our process.
After the Recovery
Once the vehicle is upright and secured, the job still isn’t done. We inspect it for fluid leaks, loose parts, and whether it can be towed safely. Sometimes, a flatbed is needed. Other times, wheels might need to be chocked or secured specially if the suspension is damaged.
We document everything—photos, notes, the condition of the vehicle—because transparency matters, and it protects both our clients and our crew.
Overturned vehicles aren’t just about brute strength. They’re about understanding weight, force, angle, risk—and respecting the situation enough to get it right. These recoveries might be the most challenging part of our job, but they’re also some of the most rewarding.
When the dust settles, the car’s upright, the scene’s safe, and everyone walks away without injury—that’s the kind of outcome we aim for every time.
Now Any Car Towing is available in Sandhurst, Victoria 3977.
Contact Us
Any Car Towing
10 Silvergum Pl, Cranbourne VIC 3977
0413 176 223
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