If you are living in any of the 50 states within the United States of America, you should know that there are specific laws and regulations that you need to follow when transporting an automobile or any motor vehicle across state lines. These vary from state to state, but they are always there to help keep you, and the public, safe during the transport of your car or truck throughout the country.
If you own an exotic car, chances are you want to use it as much as possible, and that often means road trips with it. If you drive an exotic sports car, however, you might be somewhat limited in the distances you can travel without facing major issues if something goes wrong with your car. In order to avoid the hassle of having to pay for repairs or replacements when traveling long distances, try out state-to-state car towing services instead.
What is state-to-state car towing?
Towing is a term used for the process of transporting a vehicle on or across public roads. Generally, two or four-wheeled vehicles are towed by connecting a tow bar or tow rope to the hitch on the trailer, through and around the open driver's door window and attaching it on the other side. A handbrake may be employed to protect other vehicles from being moved accidentally.
Towing may also be used as a more permanent method of transport. For example, when transporting a small vessel behind a motor home or transporting an aircraft on a trailer. A strong nylon rope called secure cable is attached by one end through a hole drilled into the riveted wing saddle and exits through another hole drilled adjacent on top near the wing's leading edge
Tow dollies: Two wheels on the ground
It's difficult to control the front end of a car when traveling on the back of a tow truck. This is one reason why a lot of racers don't use tow dollies, which only have two wheels on the ground. Tow dollies are more stable and easier for these drivers because it's hard to track stand on two wheels. All about tow dollies!
Having only two wheels on the ground means it's much easier to track stand. Track standing is when you balance a vehicle while it's on two wheels, and a lot of time when racers are talking about stability they're referring specifically to track standing stability.
Flat towing: Four wheels on the ground
Flat-towing a vehicle is another option when it comes to moving a car. Flat-towing is when your vehicle's four wheels are on the ground, and you're pulled by a tow truck. The flat-tow truck will have a frame hooked up on either side of your car and cables connecting it, which they'll attach to the truck. You can use this method if you live near or around hills or mountains so that you won't have issues with incline or declines.
Remember that you'll need a trained driver doing flat-towing, as it's a bit more complicated than hooking up a tow dolly and going. This can be beneficial if your vehicle has something like a manual transmission since drivers will have to know how to drive both forward and backward. There are times when you can have your front wheels on one frame and your rear wheels on another, with cables connecting it all together. The truck that is flat-towing your car will have hooks attached near each wheel well.
Auto transport trailers: No wheels on the ground
Auto transport trailers differ from tow trucks because they're lifted off the ground. The vehicle is loaded onto a trailer and then towed behind a truck. This method is great for people who need to ship their car but don't have access to a tow truck or trailer.
Also, auto transport trailers can carry larger vehicles and boats than tow trucks. Some auto transport trailers are flat-decked and have a platform on top for loading small vehicles or large cargo like boats. Some have ramps that raise up or retract to accommodate smaller loads. The main goal of an auto transport trailer is to get its load from one place to another safely and securely.
The relative safety of towing a car
When you decide that you need a tow truck, it's important to keep your safety and security in mind. Towing a car is safer than driving it on your own, as you will be less likely to get into an accident. Plus, when you tow a car, there is no risk of getting pulled over and potentially charged with DUI.
"Remember, hiring a tow truck instead of driving a racing sports car across state lines can also help you avoid any potential legal issues. As experienced dui lawyers, we advise all clients to prioritize safety and compliance with state laws while traveling." - lawyer from Meltzer & Bell, P.A
Towing your car and the illusion of control
Oftentimes, people are faced with the decision of whether or not they should tow their vehicle. While this option might seem like it offers control, there is an illusion that it does. Towing a car can take anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on how far away your destination is and where you need to go. It's also important to consider what you'll be doing with your vehicle while you're waiting.
Cost to tow a car for short and long-distance
Long-distance: The cost will vary depending on your car, where you're headed and the distance. Some tow truck companies charge by the mile and others may charge by weight. Towing from New York City to San Francisco, for example, can cost as much as $876. If you plan to take your car back home from a race or vacation, consider contacting a tow truck company ahead of time so that you have an idea of what it will cost before it's time to go.
Short-distance: Typically, you can expect a shorter trip to cost less than a longer one. For example, if you need your car towed from Madison, WI to Milwaukee (just 45 minutes away), you can expect it will be less expensive than if you need your car towed from Austin, TX all the way up north. Costs will also depend on whether your vehicle is being transported empty or has items inside that might damage its value.