5 Things Tow Truck Operators Wish Drivers Knew About Accident Recovery

When an accident happens, tow truck operators are among the first on the scene, working in high-stress conditions to clear wreckage, assist drivers, and keep traffic moving. But too often, their job is made harder by misunderstandings, unsafe behaviors, and unrealistic expectations from the public.

At Myles Wrecker Service in Georgia, we know that a smoother accident recovery process benefits everyone—drivers, emergency responders, and tow truck operators alike. Here are five things we wish every driver knew about accident recovery.

1. Safety Comes First For Everyone

When a tow truck arrives at an accident scene, safety is the top priority, not speed. Drivers often get impatient when waiting for a wreck to be cleared, but rushing can lead to dangerous mistakes.

What Drivers Should Know

• Move over and slow down when approaching an accident scene—it’s the law in Georgia.
• If you’re involved in the accident, stay in your vehicle unless it’s unsafe to do so.
• Keep a safe distance from tow operators and emergency crews. They’re working with heavy machinery and dangerous wreckage.

Accident recovery takes time because doing it right is more important than doing it fast.

2. Not Every Tow Is the Same

Many drivers assume towing a wrecked vehicle is as simple as hooking it up and driving off. In reality, each accident recovery is different, requiring specialized equipment and techniques.

Challenges That Affect the Recovery Process

• Vehicle position: A car in a ditch or wedged under another vehicle takes longer to recover than one on the shoulder.
• Damage severity: If wheels are locked up or parts are hanging off, extra steps are needed to prevent further damage.
• Road conditions: Rain, ice, or traffic congestion can slow down the tow and make it more dangerous.

Trust that tow operators know what they’re doing—they have the training and experience to handle even the most difficult recoveries.

3. Insurance and Costs Aren’t Instant Fixes

After an accident, drivers often assume insurance will handle everything on the spot. While insurance may cover towing fees, it doesn’t mean the process is immediate or free.

What Drivers Should Expect

• Tow operators aren’t responsible for insurance approvals: they tow the vehicle first, and payment is sorted out later.
• Some situations require out-of-pocket payment upfront, even if insurance later reimburses you.
• If your car is totaled, storage fees at an impound lot can add up quickly. Know where your vehicle is being taken and communicate with your insurance company ASAP.

Being prepared for potential costs reduces stress and confusion during an already difficult situation.

4. Not All Tow Trucks Are the Same

Just like different vehicles require different repairs, different accidents require specific types of tow trucks. Some drivers expect a quick roadside tow, only to learn that a heavy-duty wrecker or rotator is needed.

Types of Tow Trucks Used in Accident Recovery

• Flatbeds: Best for severe damage, AWD vehicles, or when wheels aren’t functional.
• Wheel-lifts: Good for quick tows when the vehicle is drivable on two wheels.
• Heavy-duty wreckers: Used for semi-truck rollovers, large vehicles, or complex recoveries.
• Rotators: Essential for overturned vehicles or major accident scenes requiring precise lifting.

Understanding that tow operators bring the right equipment for the job helps manage expectations when waiting for assistance.

5. Tow Truck Operators Are There to Help—Not Cause Problems

It’s easy to get frustrated after an accident, but tow truck operators aren’t the enemy. They’re there to clear the scene, assist drivers, and make the process as smooth as possible.

Remember This

• Tow truck operators don’t make the rules; they follow police instructions and state regulations.
• They’re not trying to “steal” your car; if your vehicle is being towed somewhere you didn’t expect, it’s likely due to police orders or safety concerns.
• Towing is dangerous work. Every year, tow operators lose their lives on the job because of careless drivers who don’t slow down or pay attention.

A little patience and understanding go a long way. The goal is to get you and your vehicle off the road safely.

Final Thoughts

Accident recovery is a challenging, high-risk job that requires skill, patience, and cooperation from everyone involved. By understanding these five key points, drivers can help make the process safer, faster, and less stressful for themselves and the professionals working to clear the scene.

At Myles Wrecker Service in Georgia, we’re committed to providing safe and efficient accident recovery services. Next time you see a tow truck at work, remember—we’re here to help, not to hassle.