For most drivers, bad weather is just an inconvenience—slippery roads, slower commutes, maybe a bit of extra caution. But for tow truck operators, snow, ice, and extreme weather turn every call into a test of skill, patience, and safety. Whether it’s pulling a car out of a snowbank, rescuing a stranded driver in a hailstorm, or navigating icy backroads, towing in harsh conditions requires a whole different approach.
Why weather makes towing more complicated
Weather doesn’t just affect the vehicles needing help—it impacts the recovery itself. Snow and ice reduce traction, strong winds can make loading dangerous, and heavy rain or flooding can hide hazards under the surface. A simple tow job on a sunny day becomes a complex operation when visibility is low and surfaces are slippery.
The risks involved
- Reduced traction: Both the tow truck and the stranded vehicle can slide, making recovery more difficult.
- Cold-related damage: Engines and batteries are more likely to fail in freezing temperatures.
- Visibility issues: Snowstorms and heavy rain limit how much operators can see, adding to the danger.
- Road closures or delays: Severe conditions can turn a 20-minute job into a multi-hour effort.
Techniques for safer towing in bad weather
Professional tow operators are trained to adjust their approach depending on conditions. Some of the most effective techniques include:
- Using snow chains or winter tires
These provide better grip on icy or snowy roads, reducing the risk of sliding. - Winching instead of pulling
In slippery conditions, a controlled winch is often safer than a direct tow, especially if the stranded vehicle is stuck in snow or mud. - Positioning carefully
Tow trucks are parked at angles that maximize safety and stability, avoiding spots where they could slide themselves. - Extra lighting and signals
In low visibility, operators rely on strong work lights and hazard signals to stay visible to other drivers. - Taking it slow
Recovery and transport take longer in bad weather, but rushing only increases the risk for everyone involved.
Real-world example
During last winter’s cold snap, one of our operators responded to a call from a driver whose car had spun out on black ice in the early morning. The vehicle was perched on a slope, half off the road. By using a winch instead of attempting to tow directly, and carefully clearing ice around the tires, the car was recovered safely without further damage. It took patience and a steady hand, but the driver was relieved to be back on safe ground.
Preparing as a driver
While tow operators are trained for these conditions, drivers can also take steps to reduce the need for emergency callouts:
- Check your tires before winter driving.
- Carry an emergency kit with blankets, water, and a flashlight.
- Slow down in wet, icy, or windy weather.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during extreme conditions.
What this means for towing services
For towing companies, extreme weather is part of the job. It’s demanding, risky, and often requires working long hours under pressure—but it also highlights why professional operators matter. Without them, countless drivers would be left stranded in dangerous situations.
Something worth remembering
Snow, ice, and storms may make the roads more unpredictable, but with skilled tow truck operators ready to respond, drivers can count on help arriving—even when the weather is at its worst. It’s a reminder that, no matter the conditions, there’s always a way to bring people and their vehicles back to safety.
Now Any Car Towing is available in Hampton Park Victoria 3976.
Contact Us
Any Car Towing
10 Silvergum Pl, Cranbourne VIC 3977
0413 176 223
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