Tips from a tow truck driver as the temps continue to drop

FARGO — As the temperatures go down, the number of car issues is going up.

From dead batteries, to an unexpected trip into the ditch, to a pesky flat tire, Mother Nature has tested the patience of a lot of drivers.

When vehicles run into issues on the road, tow truck drivers are ready to help.

Issac Lansford has only been in the towing business for five months in the metro. But this winter has brought no shortage of action.

“I’ve had eight calls already since seven o’clock this morning. Pretty busy morning for little stuff. Other then that, busy day. We’re looking at 20-30-40 calls a day depending on the weather,” Lansford said.

His process is pretty simple. Cruise the area. Wait for a call. Or stumble across someone who is in need of some assistance.

Dead batteries are common with temps this low.

“It’s not that hard to mix the cables up. I recommend having a professional do it. That way you know it’s getting done correctly and it’s getting done with safely,” he said.

Usually working in tight quarters, Lansford and other tow truck drivers just hope those on the road are paying attention.

“We’re already working under stressful measures where we are at, especially on the interstate when you got semis going by at 70 mph. Space is one thing that we really like. Our lights are on, nice enough for you guys to even move over. We aren’t wanting to get hurt or get anybody else hurt. If lights are on and you move over, all tow truck drivers appreciate that,” he said.

In fact, drivers could face fines. There is a move over law when emergency vehicles are present in both North Dakota and Minnesota.

If you find yourself in a tough spot this winter. Just stay calm and know that help is a phone call away. But, make sure you know where you are or that help may never come.

“The best way to tell us where you are is to drop your latitude and longitude or if you have (a) iPhone we do have Google Maps, so you can send it right to our phones and you can drop a pin for us and it makes it easier to find some cars,” he said.

Lansford said Interstate 29 automotive service and towing is available 24/7, 365 days a year.