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Car Service Apps: Exploring The Pros And Cons

Nowadays, it seems as though there is a mobile app to help you accomplish just about every task on your to-do list and getting an automotive tow is no exception. Thanks to the availability of car service apps, it is now possible to have a tow truck dispatched to your location without ever talking directly to the towing company. The question is, is this really a better way of getting the towing services you need? Taking a moment to review the pros and cons associated with these apps can help you to answer that question.

The Pros

There are several benefits that come along with choosing to use a car service app. These benefits include:

  1. Convenience - Car service apps are extremely convenient as they can be downloaded on your phone or tablet long before an emergency occurs and will provide you with instant access to the help you need when the time comes. Furthermore, since these apps do not require you to make direct contact with the towing company, they will allow you to easily multitask when dealing with the stress of a disabled vehicle.
  2. Location Tracking - Through the use of a car service app, the towing company will be able to access your phone's GPS signal. This will allow them to track your exact location in order to dispatch a tow truck as quickly as possible. This location tracking capability also extends to the person using the app and will allow them to track the location of their tow truck so that they know when it will arrive.
  3. Digital Payment - Towing services typically must be paid for at the time they are rendered. The use of a car service app will allow you to easily pay these charges using a credit or debit card directly on your phone.

The Cons

There are also a few disadvantages that come along with the use of a car service app when requesting an automotive tow. These disadvantages include:

  1. Internet Access Required - Car service apps work using an internet connection. Consequently, if you find yourself stranded in a dead zone or do not have a mobile device that offers internet services, these apps will be of no use to you.
  2. Possible Communication Errors - As with all digital communications, there is always the change of miscommunication when using a car service app. These miscommunications can often be cleared up by taking to a dispatcher directly.
  3. Roadside Assistance Coverage - Not all roadside assistance memberships will support the use of a car service app. In many cases, you will need to request a tow directly through your roadside assistance company in order to effectively use any coverage that your membership provides.

The Bottom Line

While the use of a car service app will prove extremely beneficial for some drivers, others may find that simply picking up the phone and placing a call to their local towing company (such as Mark's Towing, Inc.) or roadside assistance company will prove more beneficial. For instance, individuals who struggle with the use of technology will likely find that placing a phone call is much easier for them than navigating their way through the use of a car service app.


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