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Stranded drivers find relief thanks to tow truck operators

Posted at 2:09 PM, Feb 09, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-09 16:09:26-05

If you find your car stuck or stranded on the side of a snowy road, tow trucks are usually a welcome sight.

Tow truck companies in Gallatin County were working around the clock last week to help drivers in these conditions. More snow usually means more calls.

“The last 24 hours have been pretty interesting,“ said P.J. Johnson, the General Manager for Best Rates Towing. “We’ve done everything from semi wrecks to car accidents to slide offs, jump starts, lockouts.”

Last Friday alone, they had received more than 150 calls from people needing their help.

Various tow trucks could be seen on I-90 Friday. <div class="Figure-credit" itemprop="author">Annie Johnson

“People are pretty happy to see us show up, and of course, I don’t wish anybody gets in an accident or their car breaks down, but I think the big message is we’re here to help when you’re in a time of need," Johnson explained.

According to Johnson, a majority of the accidents he’s worked can be prevented by paying attention and going slow.

“Yesterday, today I think the main cause of accidents is visibility and speed. People being in a hurry,” he said.

So whether you’re the one in need or the person passing an accident, Johnson says the goal is to keep everyone safe.

“I think it’s important to realize that not only do we have a family we want to get home to, the customer has a family they want to go home to. And I think it goes for any first responder — I’ll speak for the majority: slow down! Move over! It’s important.”

If you need tow truck services for any reason, make sure you're in a safe location before you call for help.