We’ve all had the experience of having to call a tow truck and then wondering what to do while you wait. Is it safe to call a friend or a rideshare and leave your car for the tow truck to deal with? Strictly speaking, towing companies don’t need access to the interior of your vehicle, so we can tow it even if you’re not there. But it’s not always safe to leave your car unattended in a parking lot or on the side of the road.
Different towing companies have their own preferences, but all want you and your car to be safe. Here’s when it’s okay to leave your car while waiting for a tow truck.
When You’re in a Safe Area
The last thing you want to happen is for someone to break into your car while you’re waiting for the tow truck. In general, if you are in a safe area, such as a residential area or store parking lot, it’s okay to leave your car. If you have to leave your car unattended, you want to leave it somewhere where there are people around. Although you should definitely lock your car and take your valuables with you no matter where you leave it, someone is less likely to try to break into a car when other people are around.
When You Have a Ride
Understandably, you’d rather go home than wait in your car, but you should only do so if you have a ride. For example, if you break down on the highway, you shouldn’t start walking toward the nearest exit ramp after you call for a tow. If a friend or family member can pick you up, wait for them to arrive before you leave your car.
When Someone Knows It’s There
Finally, you should only leave your car if someone other than you and the tow truck driver knows where it is. If you have to leave your car in a store parking lot, tell the store owner or manager what the situation is and that a tow truck is coming for it. In a residential area, knock on a nearby door to let someone know that you are not just abandoning your car. If it’s after closing time or no one is home, call the local police department to alert them in case someone reports an unattended vehicle before your tow truck arrives.
