J & M Trailer Repair offers semi truck roadside assistance in Ocala, FL. No one wants to need this service, but we are there for you when you are broken down on the side of the road. When that occurs, you need to keep yourself safe while taking precautions to make your truck safe to tow or repair. Here are four suggestions to make roadside assistance as easy and safe as possible:
- Pull over to a safe spot: The good news on this front is that your semi truck is at least visible. It is often too easy for a smaller commuter car to get hit by passing drivers, but for trucks, this risk is minimized. However, you do not want to park just anywhere, as blocking the flow of traffic risks a crash. When your engine starts sputtering or your electrical equipment starts to fail, that is when you need to guide the truck to the safest place possible. Once there, you will be out of the way of traffic and able to maneuver around your rig to take other precautions.
- Prepare your semi: If you take preliminary steps before we arrive, we can repair or tow more quickly. Turn off all lights and devices in your coach except for the four-way lights. If there is a risk of fire or you suspect one has started, stay away from your truck. Check for fluid leaks or any other signs that could point to what went wrong. Call your service provider to arrange for towing and repair once you ascertain at least a few facts. This is especially vital if you believe your semi presents a hazard like fire or caustic chemical leakage.
- Work with a specialist: You do not want just anyone towing your semi, if that becomes necessary. Work with your fleet manager and call whomever they recommend. Towing your semi requires 125,000-pound GVW permits, and if the tow vehicle is rated less, you risk further damage or an accident. Also, if you go with a service provider like us, there is a good chance that any repairs can be made on the road. That will save you precious travel time and take a big worry off your mind.
- Do not rush: The process of getting a semi towed or repaired will take a while. Call your dispatcher so they know what is going on. They may be able to adjust your deadline or send another truck if you are carrying perishable items. Take the time to remove the drive shaft before your semi is towed. Get the leveling system to start by putting air in the coach and then moving to suspension and brakes. When you need a tow, you want a technician who takes the time to complete these steps. Skipping them leads to additional expensive repairs.
When you need semi truck roadside assistance in Ocala, FL, call J & M Trailer Repair. We are experienced and certified professionals who can get you back on the road sooner.