Airport Towing

The average stopping time of an 18-wheeled semi truck is 40 percent higher than that of a car. That means that if the truck needs to brake suddenly, it needs 40 percent more distance than the average automobile.

According to the Truckers Report, the maximum legal weight for an 18-wheeled truck is 80,000 pounds, or 40 tons. For comparison, the average personal vehicle weighs around 5,000 pounds. Weight is one reason why many city roads do not allow large trucks.

The average semi truck trailer is between 28 feet and 57 feet. The turning radius of these trucks is affected by the position of the kingpin. This is the pin that connects the trailer to the truck. The longer the kingpin setting, the larger the turning radius.

If you happen to break down on a curve or other area where your semi is hidden from view for oncoming traffic, then strategic marker placement is critical. Place a reflective triangle back behind any hill, curve, or obstruction that's going to prevent other drivers from seeing the vehicle within 500 feet.

If your semi truck breaks down, roadside safety is critical while you wait for a tow. Truckers are responsible for making sure that appropriate warning signs are displayed to warn other drivers, usually flashers and hazard triangles.

If you run into tire problems with your semi truck on the road, you're going to want the tire to be repaired and inspected by a professional. By having your truck towed to the nearest repair facility, you can ensure that your truck is safe to operate.

Putting on your hazard lights if your car breaks down lets other drivers know to give you space. Hazard lights are a signal that something isn't right, and drivers around you will be aware that you're having car trouble.

Did you know there is a difference between a wrecker and a tow truck? To a casual observer, they may seem much the same but actually a wrecker is designed to tow and recover while a tow truck merely tows.

If your semi breaks down on the side of the road, one of your first responsibilities is to protect the area by turning on your flashers and setting out reflective triangles. This will prevent injury or another collision while you wait for the tow truck to arrive.

Did you know the tow truck was invented in 1916 by Ernest Holmes Sr, a garage worker? Holmes was inspired to create the truck after he was forced to pull a car out of a creek using blocks, ropes, and six men.