When you’re out on the road towing a vehicle—whether it’s a family sedan, a broken-down ute, or even a work truck—weather can flip the script in a heartbeat. Sunshine one minute, sheets of rain the next. And when conditions get tricky, the margin for error shrinks fast. At our tow truck service, we’ve seen it all: Melbourne’s blazing heatwaves, unexpected hailstorms, and that moody fog that rolls in without warning. That’s why we’re sharing some no-nonsense, tried-and-tested tips to help you stay safe when towing in any weather.
Rain, Rain, Don’t Wash Us Away
Let’s start with the most common culprit—rain. Wet roads mean less traction, and for tow trucks hauling extra weight, that spells trouble. One of our drivers, Tony, remembers a rainy Tuesday in Brunswick when a routine car pickup turned into a slow-motion slide toward a roundabout. He wasn’t speeding; the issue was bald rear tyres on the tow truck and sudden braking.
Lesson? Check your tyres before every trip. Not just the tread depth, but also the pressure. And when it’s wet out, go easy on the brakes. Use smooth, gradual movements—accelerate slowly, steer gently, and brake early. Remember, that vehicle on your hook adds a lot of momentum.
Hot Days Can Hit Hard Too
You might think sunny days are easy—clear skies, dry roads, what could go wrong? But high temperatures are sneaky. They can cause tyre blowouts, especially if your tyres are overinflated. Also, engine overheating becomes a real risk, especially if you’re pulling a heavy load through traffic.
On scorcher days, keep an eye on the temperature gauge. Make sure your coolant levels are good before heading out, and never underestimate how quickly a roadside job can dehydrate you. Keep a cooler with water in the cab, especially during peak summer. More than once, we’ve had to bring cold drinks to a driver stranded with a flat and a fried radiator.
Windy Warnings: It’s Not Just About Keeping the Hat On
Strong winds, especially in open areas like the Western Ring Road or over the West Gate Bridge, can turn towing into a battle. A gust hitting a loaded flatbed can push the whole rig sideways. Add a light car on the tray and you’ve got a recipe for sway.
When wind picks up, reduce your speed. Grip the wheel firmly and keep your trailer load balanced and secured. We had one job where a loosely strapped vehicle shifted mid-turn—nothing major, but enough to send a jolt through the cabin and give the driver a lesson he won’t forget. It’s a reminder that wind and load security go hand-in-hand.
Fog: Low Visibility, High Stress
Fog isn’t as common in the city, but in early mornings or higher elevation spots like Donnybrook or Kangaroo Ground, it can sneak up on you. The key here is visibility. Turn on your low beams—not high beams—and if your truck has fog lights, use them. And always have your hazard lights ready, especially if you’re pulled over or hooking up a car on the side of the road.
One time, we had a call-out in Wonga Park at dawn. The driver could barely see past the bonnet. He parked further off the road than usual, set up cones and wore a high-vis jacket. It took longer, but safety first. Always.
Ice and Frost: Rare But Risky
In some of Melbourne’s outer suburbs—think Craigieburn or Coldstream—early winter mornings can bring black ice. It’s rare, but if you tow in rural areas or start your shifts before sunrise, it’s a threat you need to respect.
If you suspect ice, don’t make sudden movements. Light touch on the accelerator and brake, gentle steering. And if the back end starts to slide? Steer into the skid, not against it. Practice helps here. If you’re new to towing, we recommend spending time in a controlled environment, like an empty carpark on a cold morning, to get a feel for how your vehicle behaves when traction drops.
A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Weather can be unpredictable, but being unprepared is a choice. Keep a towing checklist in your cab. Here’s a quick version of ours:
- Tyre check (pressure and tread)
- Working lights (including trailer indicators and brake lights)
- Load straps, chains, and winch tested
- Weather report reviewed before the shift
- Emergency kit stocked (gloves, torch, water, reflective vest, rain poncho)
Also, always communicate with your dispatcher. If a route looks unsafe or weather warnings are in place, it’s okay to call for a delay or detour. Safety trumps speed—every single time.
Some days, towing is smooth sailing. Other days, it’s a dance with the elements. But with the right mindset, solid gear, and a bit of common sense, you can handle whatever the skies throw your way. After all, the road might be unpredictable—but you don’t have to be.
If you are in Balwyn, Victoria 3103, and looking for a nearby tow truck service, this is the best way to visit us.
123 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121
0485 856 565
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