A breakdown on Deerfoot Trail, a fender-bender in a parking lot or a car that simply won’t start on a cold January morning — vehicle trouble rarely happens at a convenient time. Here’s exactly what to do while you wait for a tow truck in Calgary, so you stay safe and the tow goes smoothly.
1. Get yourself somewhere safe first
- Turn on your hazard lights right away.
- If the vehicle still rolls, move to the shoulder or a safe spot away from traffic.
- On a busy road or highway shoulder, stay out of the vehicle and stand behind a barrier if you can.
- Don’t walk along highways like Stoney Trail or Deerfoot Trail.
If anyone is injured or there is a fire risk, call 911 first.
2. Have the right details ready when you call
A quick, clear call gets the right truck to you faster. When you call 587-914-0130, tell the dispatcher:
- Your exact location — cross streets, exit number or a nearby landmark.
- Your vehicle make and model.
- What happened (won’t start, accident, flat tire, out of fuel…).
- Where you want the vehicle taken — home, your mechanic, a body shop or a dealership.
We confirm the price and an estimated arrival time before we dispatch, so there are no surprises.
3. Not every problem needs a tow
A dead battery, a flat tire or an empty tank can often be fixed on the spot with roadside assistance. If the engine won’t run after a jump, there’s a fluid leak, a damaged wheel or axle, or the car was in a collision, towing is the safer option. Our team will tell you honestly which one you need.
4. Ask for a flatbed when it matters
AWD and 4WD vehicles, luxury and lowered cars, motorcycles and accident-damaged vehicles are best moved on a flatbed, with all four wheels off the road. If you’re not sure, just ask — we’ll recommend the right method.
5. Calgary winter tips that prevent the call
- Winter cold can drain a battery overnight — test your battery before November.
- Refuel at a quarter tank, especially in winter.
- Don’t rely on the “distance to empty” number in extreme cold.
- Keep your spare tire in good condition and know where your jack and wheel lock key are.
Stranded right now? Call Jim Towing at 587-914-0130 — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across Calgary and surrounding areas.