Breaking down on the highway is stressful, unexpected, and often dangerous. While some drivers may try to solve the issue on their own or wait for a friend, leaving a vehicle on the shoulder for too long can lead to serious consequences. Highways are high-speed environments designed for constant movement, and an abandoned or disabled car creates risks not only for the driver but for other motorists and law enforcement. Failing to get your car towed quickly can result in safety hazards, legal issues, and even costly damage to your vehicle. Here’s what can happen when you delay calling for towing in Titusville, FL.
1. Increased Danger From Fast-Moving Traffic
The biggest concern is safety. Highways move at speeds between 55 and 75 mph, and drivers are often distracted or unprepared for a stopped vehicle. A car stranded on the shoulder, even with hazard lights, is at high risk of being hit. Sideswipe and rear-end collisions are more common than many people realize, especially at night or during bad weather. Standing outside your vehicle to inspect damage or wait for help makes you even more vulnerable. Tow trucks are trained to remove vehicles quickly and safely, drastically reducing the chance of an accident.
2. Risk of Your Vehicle Being Struck or Destroyed
If your car sits on the side of the highway long enough, the odds of it being hit increase significantly. Even a small impact from a drifting car can lead to thousands of dollars in damage. Larger collisions can completely total the vehicle. A tow service removes your car from harm’s way and prevents avoidable damage that your insurance may or may not fully cover.
3. Law Enforcement May Have Your Vehicle Towed Anyway
Highways are patrolled regularly, and officers take abandoned or disabled vehicles seriously because they can cause traffic problems or accidents. In many states, law enforcement can order your vehicle to be towed within a few hours—or even immediately—if it’s deemed unsafe or obstructive. This is called an involuntary tow, and it usually costs significantly more than calling your own tow truck. You may also need to pay impound fees before retrieving your car, plus penalties depending on local laws.
4. Potential Fines or Legal Issues
Leaving a vehicle on the highway shoulder for an extended period can result in fines. Some states issue citations for unlawful parking, abandoned vehicles, or creating a roadway hazard. If your car is involved in an accident because it was left unattended, you could even face liability issues. Getting your car professionally towed eliminates unnecessary legal complications and protects you from fines you could avoid.
5. Increased Risk of Theft or Vandalism
A car stranded on the highway is an easy target. Thieves know the owner isn’t nearby, and they may break into the vehicle or steal parts like the battery, tires, or catalytic converter. Even random vandalism is more likely when a car appears abandoned. Professional towing gets your vehicle to a safer location where you can secure it properly.
6. Additional Mechanical Damage From Sitting
Even if your car isn’t hit, sitting on the shoulder can cause damage. Vehicles left running to keep the battery alive may overheat. Cars left off may suffer electrical problems, dead batteries, or issues caused by leaking fluids. Weather exposure, especially extreme heat, snow, or rain, can further damage your vehicle. The sooner a tow truck arrives, the sooner your car can get to a repair shop where the issue can be diagnosed and fixed.
7. Longer Delays and Higher Stress Levels
The longer you wait for help, the more stressful your situation becomes. Traffic noise, weather, and safety concerns make waiting on the highway extremely uncomfortable. Calling a tow service immediately ensures you spend less time on the roadside and more time getting your vehicle repaired.
Call Junk Man’s Towing to Assist you with Towing in Titusville, FL
In Florida, not getting your car towed, especially on a busy highway, can be problematic. From financial penalties to weather damage and personal liability, the risks are too high to ignore. Whether you’re dealing with a flat tire, engine trouble, or post-accident damage, arranging for a tow is a legal and safety necessity. When in doubt, don’t leave your car stranded. Call our licensed towing service and protect yourself, your vehicle, and others on the road.
At Junk Man’s Towing, we are proud to serve our customers with light duty towing services as well as heavy duty towing in and around Titusville, Florida. Our top priorities are fast response times, professional service, and customer satisfaction to ensure your towing experience is stress-free. We have you covered with our reliable light duty towing services. We work 24/7 to ensure your utmost safety in the following locations. Call us today at (321) 304-9617 for more information.