Thinking about towing your own car over a long distance? At Jake’s Towing, we know it can be tempting to handle it yourself—but safety and efficiency matter. In this post, we’ll look at the risks of DIY towing over long routes and why calling a professional might be the smarter move.

Why DIY Long-Distance Towing Sounds Like a Good Idea—But Isn’t

We’ve all thought about saving some cash and just handling things ourselves. At first glance, towing your own car over a long distance might feel like a simple task. If you’ve got a tow hitch, a trailer, or maybe even a friend with a pickup truck, it might seem like a no-brainer. But long distance car towing isn’t just about hooking your car up and hitting the road.

Sure, it feels like freedom to do it yourself. No waiting. No scheduling. But trust us—it’s not that simple. When the miles add up, so do the chances of things going sideways.

The Hidden Risks That Could Cost You Big

Let’s talk about risk. Flat tires, poor weather, road debris, and mechanical breakdowns. These are real threats that can turn your road trip into a nightmare. And that’s assuming everything else is perfect. What if your brakes get too hot from the added strain? What if the trailer sways on the highway?

Also, let’s not forget the legal part. Each state has towing laws. They’re not the same. If you don’t follow them, expect fines. Worse, you may endanger others on the road.

Then there’s the wear and tear. Your towing vehicle wasn’t made to haul thousands of pounds for hundreds of miles. Over time, this can damage your suspension, transmission, and even tires.

Equipment Isn’t the Only Thing You Need

Most people think renting a trailer is enough. But towing needs more than just gear. You need balance, control, and smart driving habits. One wrong turn or hard brake, and your vehicle could jackknife or even roll.

Also, let’s not ignore your own skill level. Driving while towing feels different. Turns are wider. Stopping takes longer. Parking is harder. Add a long route and you’ll need more than just luck.

That’s why people often search long distance towing services nearby when things start to feel risky. It’s not just about convenience. It’s about safety and peace of mind.

When Accidents Make Things Worse

Picture this. You’re 200 miles from home. The sun’s going down. The trailer’s tire just blew. You’re stuck on the shoulder, cars flying past. Now what?

Roadside fixes while towing are dangerous. You may not have the right tools or space. One wrong step, and you could be in the ER or worse. Then there’s your insurance. Many personal policies won’t cover accidents from self-towing.

And if your vehicle gets damaged while you tow it? That cost comes out of your pocket. No warranty, no backup. Just bills and regret.

What Professionals Bring to the Table

When pros tow your car, they don’t guess. They calculate. They check weight, angle, balance, and road routes. They’ve got the right trucks, trained teams, and coverage. And most importantly—they’ve done it before. A lot.

Professional drivers also know how to handle emergencies. If something goes wrong, they can fix it—or know who can. Your vehicle stays safe, and so do you.

Also, think about your time. Towing isn’t just hard. It’s slow. Experts can move your car fast and safely, freeing you up for what really matters.

What to Ask When Searching for Long Distance Towing Services Near Me

Before you call just any company, ask questions that matter. How far do they tow? What type of equipment do they use? Are their drivers trained and insured? Do they offer tracking or status updates? Will they protect your vehicle during loading and unloading?

Don’t be shy. A good company will answer it all. If they sound unsure or vague, keep looking.

Also, compare rates—but don’t let price be the only factor. You’re trusting them with your car. Make sure they’re worth it.

Why Leaving It to Experts Saves Time, Money, and Stress

When you factor in time, fuel, stress, and wear on your vehicle, towing your car yourself doesn’t really save you much. Not to mention the risk of damage or injury. It’s just not worth it.

Long routes take focus, skill, and planning. Not everyone’s got that. And that’s okay. Experts exist for a reason. They’ve got tools, trucks, and training. And they’re just a call away.

So the next time your car needs to be moved across the state—or across the country—trust the ones who tow for a living.

Conclusion

At Jake’s Towing and Recovery, we take Long Distance Car Towing seriously. We know what’s at stake when your car needs to go the extra mile. Our trained team works smart and safe so you don’t have to worry. Whether it’s across counties or state lines, we make sure your vehicle gets where it needs to be, hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can self-towing void my car warranty or insurance?
Yes. Some policies don’t cover damage from towing errors. If your setup fails or causes damage, the bill might be all yours.
Why do trailers sway at high speeds—and how do pros stop that?
Trailer sway happens from wind, uneven roads, or poor weight balance. Pros use anti-sway bars, proper loading, and controlled speeds to prevent it.
Is using a rented U-Haul dolly for 500+ miles safe?
Not always. Rental dollies often lack shock support and balance features needed for long hauls. A pro-grade hauler is designed for long wear.
What’s the worst mistake drivers make when towing long distance?
Speeding. Many assume more speed saves time. But it causes overheating, loss of control, and trailer drift—especially downhill.
Can I ride in the towed vehicle while it’s being pulled?
Never. It’s unsafe and illegal in most states. Riding inside a towed car during transport could lead to serious injury during sudden stops.

Need help with long distance towing services near you? Don’t risk it solo. Let Jake’s Towing and Recovery get it done right—the first time.

Is It Safe to Tow Your Own Car Over Long Routes?