When to Call For Roadside Services (For Your Heavy-Duty Truck)

Ever been cruising down the highway with a crucial load on board, when suddenly your truck sputters and loses power? A roadside breakdown can be a stressful situation for any driver, but for those behind the wheel of a heavy-duty truck, it can be a major headache. Not only does it disrupt your schedule and potentially damage your cargo, but it can also pose a safety hazard to yourself and other motorists

That’s why knowing when to call for roadside services can make all the difference. This article from DLS Fleet Services will help you identify situations where roadside assistance is necessary and provide some helpful tips for getting the help you need quickly and efficiently.

Recognizing When to Call for Truck Roadside Assistance

While some minor issues might be addressed with a roadside fix, there are situations where calling for professional help is the safest and most practical option. Here are some key signs that indicate it's time to call for roadside services:

Safety Concerns

If your breakdown creates a safety hazard for yourself or others, don't hesitate to call for help. This includes situations like a disabled vehicle blocking a lane of traffic, smoke or flames coming from the engine compartment, or a flat tire on a drive axle. In these cases, getting your truck off the road quickly is paramount.

Major Component Failure

Modern heavy-duty trucks are complex machines, and some breakdowns require specialized knowledge and equipment to diagnose and repair. If you're experiencing a major component failure, such as an overheating engine, transmission problems, or a malfunctioning aftertreatment system, calling roadside assistance is the best course of action. Trying to fix these issues yourself can lead to further damage and costly repairs.

Lack of Expertise or Tools

Let's face it, not everyone is a mechanic. If you're unfamiliar with the inner workings of a heavy-duty truck, or lack the necessary tools to make repairs, calling for roadside truck repair is a wise decision. DLS Fleet Services employs a team of highly trained technicians with the expertise and equipment to handle a wide range of roadside repairs.

Common Roadside Breakdowns for Heavy-Duty Trucks

Some of the top reasons for roadside breakdowns in heavy-duty trucks include:

• Tires: Underinflated tires, low tread depth, and misaligned axles can all lead to blowouts and other tire-related problems. A commercial truck roadside assistance provider can help you change a flat tire or tow your truck to a repair facility.
• Brakes: Faulty brakes are a serious safety hazard. If you experience issues with your brakes, such as leaking brake lines, worn brake pads, or malfunctioning gladhands, call for emergency roadside assistance immediately.
• Cranking System: A dead battery or a malfunctioning starter can leave you stranded. Roadside assistance providers can typically jump-start your truck or replace a dead battery.
• Exhaust System: Problems with the exhaust system, such as a malfunctioning Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, can not only impact your truck's performance but can also lead to non-compliance fines. Roadside assistance can help diagnose the problem and get you back on the road quickly.

Before You Call: What Information to Gather

Once you've determined that emergency roadside service is necessary, there are a few key steps to take before making the call. Gathering the following information can help expedite the process and ensure a smooth repair:

• Safety First: Before exiting your vehicle, ensure your safety and the safety of others by putting on your hazard lights and deploying warning triangles or reflective cones behind your truck.
• Location, Location, Location: Knowing your exact location is crucial for a prompt response. This includes the highway number, mile marker (if applicable), and any nearby landmarks. If possible, use a GPS device to pinpoint your location.
• Vehicle Information: Be prepared to provide the year, make, and model of your truck, as well as the engine type and transmission type. This information will help the roadside assistance provider send a technician with the appropriate tools and expertise to address your specific needs.
• Load Details (if applicable): If you're hauling a load, it's important to inform the dispatcher of the type and weight of your cargo. This information may be necessary to determine the appropriate towing equipment.

By gathering this information beforehand, you can save valuable time and ensure that the roadside assistance provider can respond to your needs.

Calling for Help and Beyond

With the necessary information gathered, it's time to contact your semi-truck roadside assistance provider. DLS Fleet Services offers 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can rest assured that help is always available, no matter the time of day or night. Our experienced dispatchers will ask you for the details mentioned above and work diligently to get a qualified technician to your location as quickly as possible.

While you wait for help to arrive, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Stay Safe: Remain with your vehicle on the side of the road, away from traffic. If possible, park on a level surface with the wheels turned away from the road.
• Document the Scene: If possible, take pictures or videos of the breakdown scene, including any damage to your truck or surrounding area. This documentation can be helpful for insurance purposes or when reporting the incident to your fleet manager.
• Minimize Downtime: If the issue is minor and you're comfortable doing so, you can attempt a roadside fix while waiting for help to arrive. However, prioritize safety and only attempt repairs you're confident in performing.

Final Words

A roadside breakdown can be disruptive and stressful, but by knowing when to call for help and being prepared, you can minimize downtime and get back on the road quickly. DLS Fleet Services is your one-stop shop for all your truck roadside assistance needs. Our team of experienced technicians is available 24/7 to handle a wide range of repairs, from flat tires and dead batteries to more complex issues.

Don't let a roadside breakdown derail your schedule. Contact DLS Fleet Services today to learn more about our 24/7 roadside assistance program. We'll keep your heavy-duty truck running smoothly and efficiently, so you can focus on getting your deliveries to their destination on time. Visit our website or call us to speak with a representative about our roadside assistance services and how we can keep your fleet moving