The First Few Minutes Matter
We’ve all been there: suddenly stranded on the side of the road, hazards blinking, wondering what to do next. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially if you’re stuck near a busy highway like I-95. The good news? A calm head and a little know-how can make a big difference in keeping yourself safe and prepared while the tow truck arrives. As part of the I-495 towing community, our tow truck team has seen just about every roadside situation you can imagine. Here’s what we recommend doing while you wait for a tow truck.
Get to a Safe Spot
If your car is still drivable, the first thing we suggest is pulling over to the safest location possible. Ideally, find a wide shoulder or an emergency lane. Avoid stopping on curves or hills where oncoming drivers may not see you.
Once you’re stopped, engage your hazard lights right away. If you have reflective triangles or flares, set them up behind your car to alert other drivers, especially if it’s dark or visibility is poor.
Stay Inside the Vehicle (Most of the Time)
We often get asked, “Should I stay in the car or wait outside?” The answer depends on your location. If you’re on a quiet neighborhood street, stepping out and waiting away from traffic might be fine. But on a major road like I-495, staying inside with your seatbelt on is typically the safest option. There were too many close calls when drivers get out near fast-moving traffic. But always be prudent and use your judgement if inside or outside the car is the safest place for you to be.
Use Your Time Wisely
Once you’re safe, there are a few useful things to do while you wait:
- Call your insurance provider if your policy includes roadside assistance.
- Snap photos of your car’s position and any visible damage for documentation.
- Take note of any nearby landmarks, mile markers, or exit signs—this can help the I-495 towing team locate you faster.
- Save your phone battery by dimming the screen or closing background apps.
Be Ready to Identify the Tow Truck
When a tow truck arrives, make sure it’s the one dispatched to you. We always provide our customers with the truck number or driver’s name. If you’re unsure, ask the driver to confirm the service request. This might feel awkward, but it’s a good habit. Unfortunately, we’ve heard stories about scammers posing as tow operators.
Having our I-495 towing contact saved in your phone is one way to avoid any confusion and make sure you’re dealing with a trusted provider.
Keep Essentials Handy
It never hurts to prepare for a wait. In our experience, having a few basic items in your vehicle can go a long way. Here are a few to consider:
- Water and snacks
- A phone charger or backup power bank
- A small flashlight
- A first aid kit
- A blanket or jacket for colder months
Waiting might take 20 minutes or an hour depending on traffic and location, so it’s better to be comfortable while you wait.
Past & Present Towing: Your I-495 Towing Experts
Being stranded is never convenient. But knowing what to do in those moments makes a tough situation a little easier. At Past & Present Towing, we’ve helped countless drivers along I-495, I-95, Columbia Pike and other major and minor traffic arteries. Those who stay calm and prepared often handle the situation with much less stress.
A broken-down car doesn’t have to derail your day. By taking a few smart steps (finding a safe spot, staying alert, and having the essentials on hand) you’ll be ready for just about anything.
If you drive along I-495 regularly, it’s worth saving the number for our reliable I-495 towing service. You never know when you might need a I-495 towing service and having that peace of mind is worth a lot.
And remember, the next time you’re waiting for a tow, you’re not alone. The I-495 towing team of Past & Present is out here every day helping people just like you, making sure they get home safely.
