3 Tips For Towing A Classic Car Across State Lines
Posted on: 5 January 2016
As the owner of a classic car, you may already know that towing it can be more challenging than towing a newer vehicle, due to its unique requirements. For example, you will need to decide what type of vehicle you want to tow your automobile and it will also be helpful to be aware of the state laws that pertain to towing vehicles. In addition, you will also need to protect your car in case it is damaged during transport by taking time-stamped pictures of its current condition.
#1-Open Versus Closed Transport
When choosing how to transport your vehicle, it is important to consider a variety of factors. For instance, you probably already know that using towing services for a classic car is not cheap. If you are on a tight budget, you may be looking at open transport because it is less expensive. However, there are two common problems with open transport that might make you re-think open transport.
Due to the lack of cover that open transport provides, your vehicle is at risk of being hit with flying debris and since that damage is a known risk, insurance may not pay for any necessary repairs. In addition, if your classic vehicle is not operational at the time of transport, you should remember that open trailers do not always have a winch, which will be needed to load the automobile.
Open transport may be a better option if your classic car is in poor condition or needs a significant amount of restoration because additional damage may not be as big of a concern. In that instance, you should become aware of how it will be loaded onto the trailer because the cost of loading a non-running vehicle could be higher than you expect.
#2-Understand The Towing Laws In The States That Your Vehicle Will Be Traveling Through
It can be frustrating to know that it can take hours or days longer for your classic car to be transported to its final destination than it will for you to drive another vehicle through the same area. However, that delay will often relate to the state laws about towing vehicles. As an informed owner of a classic car, you should be aware of specific state laws that pertain to towing your vehicle.
For instance, the legal speed limit for towing vehicles typically varied between 55 and 65 miles per hour, far different than the 70 miles an hour for standard vehicles in many states. There can also be a big difference in maximum weights for towing from one state to another.
#3-Take Photos Of The Interior And Exterior Of Your Vehicle
Although it is not common to hear about towing accidents that result in vehicular damage, it will still be helpful to take detailed, time-stamped photos of both the inside and outside of your car shortly before the transport. That will allow you to prove that your car was undamaged at the time it was picked up if damage did occur. Even if there is damage to your vehicle when the towing company takes it, your photos will establish the extent of the damage.
In conclusion, the decisions you make about towing your classic vehicle across state lines can impact its safety and usability in several ways. As a result, it is a good idea to follow the above tips so that you can be sure your car is fully protected.
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