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Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a collection of the frequently asked questions we get from our towing and roadside service in Northeastern Pennsylvania. If you have a question that is not answered below, please contact us.
How much does towing cost?
When you find yourself in a towing situation, the first question on your mind will definitely be how much does towing cost? What are the pricing criteria for towing? Every tow operation is different, so it might be challenging to place an accurate figure for every tow. Our towing fees vary depending on the circumstances – like how far you want the car to go and the condition of the car. Please contact us for a towing quote.
Does it cost more to get towed on a weekend or a holiday?
No. Not at American Towing. We actually prefer the lighter weekend traffic in the Scranton area because we can finish your tow quicker.
What kind of on-road assistance can I expect from your towing company?
We provide a number of towing and roadside assistance services to Scranton and the rest of Lackawanna county. Ran out of gas? Battery dead and stranded on the side of Route 81? Got a flat tire in Dickson City? The team at American Towing is here to help. We specialize in tire changes, out of gas fuel delivery service, motorcycle towing, flatbed Towing, light-duty towing, medium-duty towing, heavy-duty towing, car locksmith, jump starts, and accident recovery services. Call us at (570) 499-2018 for all your emergency towing and roadside assistance needs.
Do tow truck drivers have special training?
Yes. At American Towing, our tow truck drivers are specially trained to operate several types of tow trucks and the associated equipment. Our drivers hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and also hold a tow truck driving certification.
Do tow truck drivers need a special license?
No. Not for light duty tow trucks. However, we require drivers to have a flawless driving record and attend regular defensive driving classes in Northeast Pennsylvania.
Are tow trucks inspected for road worthiness?
Yes. Since our trucks are approved to tow for Northeast Pennsylvania, our trucks must pass an inspection and PENNDOT inspection annually.
Can towing damage your car?
We know how important it is to get a job done quickly and safely. But more than anything, we know how important it is to tow your vehicle without causing any damage. At American Towing, we pride ourselves on our quick, safe, and flawless towing history. Read reviews from our towing customers in Lackawanna county.
How many different ways are there to tow a car?
There are generally five different ways to tow a car: (1) Tow Dolly, (2) Flatbed Trailer, (3) Four-Wheels Down, (4) Tow Strap or Tow Chain, or (5) call American Towing at (570) 499-2018.
How is towing capacity calculated?
Knowing the towing capacity of a vehicle is critical when choosing which model will work best for your hauling needs as well as determining what you will be able to haul with your current vehicle. Your truck’s payload capacity refers to all the cargo weight that you can safely add in addition to your truck’s empty weight (also known as curb weight). A “payload” could be anything from a truck bed full of garden mulch to five passengers and a week’s worth of luggage. Use this calculation to find your vehicle’s payload capacity: Payload Capacity = Gross Vehicle Weight – Curb Weight
Will towing a car put miles on it?
It depends on the situation. Flat towing a car with an electronic odometer should not put miles on the odometer. For electronic odometers, if the transmission is turning with the ignition on, the towed vehicle will put miles on the odometer.
My car is lowered. Can it still be towed?
Yes, most lowered cars can be safely towed with a conventional tow truck. We have a special truck with a low bed for low cars.
My car is all-wheel-drive. Does it require a flatbed tow truck?
No. Conventional tow trucks are capable of lifting all wheels off the ground.
My car has an automatic transmission. Can it be towed with the wheels on the ground?
In most circumstances, yes it can be towed. Most manufactures will say yes, depending on speed and distance.
What is the difference between local and long-distance towing?
Local and long-distance towing involve different requirements. Because of the time and gas expended for long-distance assistance, the cost to our customers will be relatively higher than a simpler, local towing service. However, when it comes to a driver in need, we work with no hesitation. Regardless of the distance, we are more than glad to help a customer in need for any requested towing service. We’ll assist you, near and far.
Can you tow motorcycles?
Yes, we carry all needed equipment necessary to tow motorcycles without damage.
Can towing companies change tires?
Yes! That’s one of our specialties. Call American Towing at (570) 499-2018 if you’re stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire. We can change your tire for you. Or, if you don’t have a spare, we can tow you to the nearest garage.
How do I know if I need my tires replaced or just patched up?
At American Towing, we completely understand the anxieties that come along with tire replacements. We’re familiar with the time, effort, and costs involved in a complete tire replacement. That’s why we put in the extra effort to determine whether or not your tires need a simple repair instead of being replaced. However, if a tire replacement is required, an alternative should never be considered. Driving on a tire that must be removed and replaced is quite serious. We would never recommend a customer endanger their car, and possibly their life, by driving with a bad tire. Let American Towing handle your tire emergency. We’ll take every option into consideration and you can trust us to deliver the proper towing solution that will keep you safe and secure on the road.
How will I know if my battery needs a jump start or complete replacement?
This situation differs from car to car, from battery to battery. There are many variables involved, including the age of the battery and how long it’s been used. When you call American Towing, we’ll examine your battery issue and come up with the best and most cost effective solution.
Can your towing company unlock my car for me?
Yes. We gladly provide lockout and car locksmith services to all our customers in Lackawanna county. No matter what make or model of your car, we will be able to open it. When you call American Towing, simply describe the issue-whether you’ve lost your keys or you’re locked inside-the make and model of the car, your location, and we’ll have your vehicle opened up quickly.
Can you unlock my car with electric locks or side-impact airbags?
Yes. We are trained car lockout specialists who carry an ever increasing array of vehicle unlocking tools. Never let an untrained person attempt to unlock your vehicle! Your doors internal mechanisms and wires are very fragile. The professionals at American Towing are here to help.
What kind of emergency gas services do you perform?
Anyone who calls American Towing can expect a comprehensive fuel service. We will drive to anyone, located anywhere in Lackawanna county, and bring along enough gas to get you back on the road. For those who are too far from a gas station and have nothing in their tank, they can depend on the swift and caring services from American Towing. If you need a particular quality of gas, or specific amount, we will be certain to meet all the requirements that you request.
Towing & Roadside Service in Scranton, PA
7 Days a Week
Our emergency towing and roadside services are available in Scranton, Pennsylvania 7 days a week from 8:00am-10:00pm.
