Tow trucks are essential vehicles in the world of roadside assistance, providing crucial services to stranded motorists and recovering broken-down vehicles. While we often see them in action, there are some fascinating facts about tow trucks that most people might not know. At Speedy Towing, we love learning more about our craft, and sharing our knowledge with others. Here are four interesting facts about tow trucks. The Tow Truck Was Invented in 1916 The tow truck, as we know it today, was invented in 1916 by a mechanic named Ernest Holmes, Sr. in Chattanooga, Tennessee. After witnessing the difficulty of pulling a car out of a creek, Holmes designed the first tow truck by modifying a 1913 Cadillac with pulleys and chains. His invention revolutionized vehicle recovery, and his design was the foundation for modern tow trucks. There Are Different Types of Tow Trucks Not all tow trucks are created equal. There are several different types of tow trucks, each designed for specific towing tasks: Flatbed Tow Trucks: These are the most common, featuring a flat platform onto which the car is loaded. Hook and Chain Tow Trucks: This older model uses a hook and chain to tow vehicles, though it is less common today. Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks: These trucks use a metal yoke to lift the front or rear wheels off the ground, leaving the remaining wheels on the road. Integrated Tow Trucks: Often used for heavy-duty tasks, these trucks combine a wheel lift and boom mechanism for enhanced towing capability. Tow Trucks Are Heavily Regulated Because tow trucks handle many types of vehicles in various conditions, they are subject to strict regulations to ensure safety and reliability. Tow truck companies must adhere to both local and federal laws, including obtaining proper certifications and insurance. These regulations are put in place to make sure that tow truck operators can safely handle vehicles and manage the often hazardous conditions on the road. Some Tow Trucks Can Tow Other Tow Trucks Heavy-duty tow trucks are equipped with enough power to tow large vehicles, such as buses, big rigs, and even other tow trucks. These trucks have a larger towing capacity than standard models and are specifically designed to handle massive loads. Their size and strength make them essential for dealing with commercial vehicle breakdowns or accidents. Towing & Roadside Assistance in Columbus, OH When you need towing or roadside assistance in Columbus, OH or the surrounding area, contact Speedy Towing at  (614) 398-2555  . Our local towing company will show up ASAP to get you out of harm’s way!