When your car breaks down on the side of I-75 at 11pm, you don't have the luxury of doing extensive research. You need a towing company fast — and that's exactly when predatory operators take advantage of stressed, vulnerable drivers.
The best defense is preparation. Here's what to look for — and what to avoid — when choosing a towing company in Dallas.
1. Check Their Google Reviews — and Read Them
Star ratings matter, but the content of reviews matters more. Look for patterns: Do multiple reviewers mention fast response times? Transparent pricing? Professional drivers? Or do you see complaints about hidden fees, damaged vehicles, or no-shows?
A company with 300+ reviews and a 4.8 or higher rating has earned that reputation through consistent performance. A company with 12 reviews and a 4.9 rating might be cherry-picking or gaming the system.
Texas Tows Inc. has 309+ Google reviews with a 4.9-star average. We're proud of that record because it was earned one honest job at a time.
2. Ask for a Price Before They Dispatch
This is the single most important thing you can do to protect yourself. A reputable towing company will give you a clear, all-in price before they send a truck. That price should include the hook-up fee, the per-mile rate, and any applicable fees for after-hours service.
If a company refuses to quote a price over the phone, or gives you a vague answer like "it depends" without specifics, hang up and call someone else. Predatory towing companies use price ambiguity to hit you with inflated bills after your car is already on the hook — at which point you have very little leverage.
At Texas Tows Inc., we quote prices upfront, every time. No surprises. No bait-and-switch.
3. Verify They're Licensed and Insured in Texas
In Texas, towing companies are regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Every towing company operating in the state is required to hold a valid license and carry appropriate insurance. You can verify a company's license status at the TDLR website.
Why does this matter? If an unlicensed or uninsured tow truck driver damages your vehicle, you have very limited recourse. A licensed, insured company is accountable — both legally and professionally.
4. Ask What Type of Truck They'll Send
If you drive an AWD or 4WD vehicle, a luxury car, or a low-clearance sports car, you need a flatbed. A company that sends the wrong truck can cause serious damage.
When you call, tell the dispatcher your vehicle's make, model, and drivetrain. A knowledgeable company will immediately know what to send. If they don't ask, that's a warning sign.
5. Watch Out for These Red Flags
- No physical address: Legitimate towing companies have a dispatch location. If a company can't tell you where they're based, be cautious.
- Pressure to decide immediately: A reputable company gives you time to ask questions. High-pressure tactics are a sign they're trying to close the deal before you can compare options.
- Cash-only payment: Most professional towing companies accept credit cards. Cash-only operations are harder to dispute if something goes wrong.
- No written estimate: Before your vehicle is loaded, you should receive a written or clearly communicated price.
- Unmarked trucks: Professional towing companies have branded vehicles. An unmarked truck with no company name is a red flag.
- Unusually low prices: If a quote sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
6. Check Their Response Time Estimate
When you're stranded, time matters. Ask the dispatcher for an estimated arrival time and hold them to it. A company that says "30 to 45 minutes" and shows up two hours later isn't just inconvenient — it can be dangerous, especially at night or in bad weather.
Texas Tows Inc. serves all of Dallas and typically arrives within 20–30 minutes. We'll give you a realistic ETA when you call, and we'll communicate if anything changes.
7. Ask About Their Discount Programs
Some towing companies offer discounts for military personnel, veterans, teachers, and first responders. It's worth asking — you might be leaving money on the table if you don't.
Texas Tows Inc. offers a 15% discount for military, veterans, teachers, and first responders. No hoops to jump through — just mention it when you call.
The Bottom Line
The best time to choose a towing company is before you need one. Save a number you trust in your phone right now, so when you're stranded at midnight on the side of a Dallas highway, you're not making a blind decision under pressure.
Texas Tows Inc. is available 24/7 at (817) 512-1024. Upfront pricing, licensed and insured, real reviews from real Dallas customers. That's the standard we hold ourselves to — every call, every tow.