At Dillon Towing & Recovery, we’ve seen our fair share of heavy-duty recovery operations. Whether it’s a semi-truck that tipped over on a narrow highway or an industrial vehicle stuck in the mud, our job is to get things back on track quickly and safely. However, heavy-duty recoveries can be tricky, and if you’re not careful, things can spiral out of control fast.
That’s why we want to share some common mistakes we’ve seen—and how to avoid them.
Know Your Equipment: Don’t Skimp on Gear
One of the biggest mistakes we see during heavy-duty recoveries is the use of the wrong equipment. When you’re dealing with massive loads, the right tools are not optional—they’re critical. If the tow truck doesn’t have the proper power or attachments for the job, you’re risking more than just property damage. You could be putting lives in danger.
Communication Is Key: Don’t Play the Guessing Game
Another common mistake? Not communicating properly with the team on-site. It’s easy to assume everyone’s on the same page, but assumptions lead to accidents. Every member of the recovery team needs to know the plan—front to back. Miscommunication during a recovery can result in unnecessary delays, or worse, injuries.
At our company, we keep communication lines wide open from the start of the job to the end. Everyone has a role, and everyone knows what’s happening at all times. We use radios, hand signals, and constant check-ins to ensure the process goes smoothly.
Forgetting About Safety: That’s a No-No
Safety should always come first, but you’d be surprised how often it’s overlooked in the rush to get things done quickly. Simple things like not wearing safety gear or not securing the recovery site can lead to disaster. Heavy-duty recovery isn’t just about getting the vehicle out—it’s about doing it safely.
The “I Got This” Attitude: Know When to Call for Backup
Overconfidence is another mistake we see in the field. Some operators think they can handle any situation on their own, but the truth is, sometimes you need extra hands—or extra trucks. No one likes to admit they need help, but calling in backup can make all the difference when a recovery gets complicated.
We’re not afraid to call for reinforcements if the job demands it. At Dillon Towing & Recovery, we believe in getting it right, not just getting it done. If a second heavy-duty truck or more manpower is needed, we bring it in to make sure the recovery is completed as efficiently and safely as possible.
Ignoring the Terrain: Don’t Forget Where You’re Standing
One last mistake to avoid is ignoring the terrain. Whether you’re on soft ground, icy roads, or steep inclines, the surface you’re working on can drastically change how you approach the recovery. If you don’t take the terrain into account, you could end up with a truck or rig in a worse spot than when you started.
Our team always takes time to assess the recovery site. We look at everything—from the weather to the ground conditions—so we can plan accordingly. After all, the goal is to prevent further damage, not cause more.
So, when you need a reliable towing and recovery service, you know who to call. We’ve got your back when things go wrong, and we’re always here to make sure those big rigs, buses, or industrial machines get back on the road safely.
