How fast can you get here?
Depends where you are and what is already running. You get an honest estimate on the phone before you hang up. If it is 45 minutes, we say 45 minutes.
Are you really open 24 hours?
Yes. Nights, weekends, Christmas, 3am on New Year's. Cars do not check the calendar and neither do we.
What areas do you cover?
Warren, Washington and Saratoga counties mainly, out of bases in Queensbury and Mechanicville. That covers Glens Falls, Lake George, Hudson Falls, Fort Edward, Warrensburg, Saratoga Springs, Malta, Ballston Spa, Clifton Park, Halfmoon, Stillwater, Waterford and everything between. We go further when the job calls for it.
Do you tow motorcycles?
Yes, on equipment made for bikes. Motorcycles, trikes and Slingshots all get moved without being strapped to a flatbed and hoped for.
Do you tow boats, campers and trailers?
Yes. Tell us the length and weight when you call so the right truck comes out.
Can you tow an all-wheel drive or a lowered car?
Yes, on a flatbed, which is the correct way to move both. Mention the vehicle on the phone so we send the right truck first time.
Do you take credit cards?
Card, cash, or direct billing through your insurer or motor club where coverage applies.
Do you work with insurance companies and motor clubs?
We do. Give us the name of the insurer or club when you call and we will deal with them where we can.
My insurance sent a different tow company. Can I still use you?
In most cases yes. It is your vehicle and you generally have a say in who tows it and where it goes. Check your policy for what gets reimbursed.
Can you tow to a shop I choose?
Yes. Your car, your call. Dealership, your regular mechanic, or your own driveway.
What if I locked my keys in the car with it running?
Say that when you call. A running vehicle is a priority and it moves up the list.
What if a child or a pet is locked inside?
Call 911 first, then call us. Emergency services will get there faster and can open it immediately.
What should I do while I wait on the highway?
If the vehicle is out of the traffic lane and upright, stay inside with your seatbelt on and hazards flashing. Standing on the shoulder of the Northway is far more dangerous than sitting in the car.
Do you do winch-outs and recovery?
Constantly, especially between December and March. Ditches, snowbanks, soft shoulders, mud.
How do I know how much it will cost?
You get the number before a truck is dispatched. Here is a breakdown of what actually moves the price.
Who owns 518 Tow?
Jon, who runs the trucks and answers a good share of the calls himself. It is not a franchise or a call centre.
Stranded right now?
One call, straight to a real person. No menus, no hold music.