If you have ever thought about becoming a tow truck driver, you should become familiar with some of the pros and cons of the job.
There are potential benefits that appeal to some individuals.
At the same time, there are genuine dangers associated with this profession.
Let’s look at some of those so you can get an idea of whether this might be the job for you.
It Can Be Dangerous
Some people would tell you that driving a tow truck is one of the most dangerous jobs. That is because:
- You sometimes have to tow vehicles stalled in heavy traffic
- You run the risk of angering vehicle operators who don’t feel you have the right to tow their cars
When someone calls your company and says that they need a tow, your boss will dispatch you to an accident scene.
The accident might have taken place on a highway or busy street.
You’ll be in potential danger from passing motorists as you hook up the damaged or stalled vehicle. You’ll have to be very cautious to avoid getting hit.
At the same time, it is not unheard of for people to attack tow truck drivers.
Let’s say that you’re picking up a vehicle that is illegally parked. The owner might come along and cause a scene before you can get to safety.
You Can Sometimes Make Your Own Hours
On the other hand, you might sign up with a company where you can work as much or as little as you want.
That means:
- You can work nights if you want to
- You can take an off day whenever you need it
- You can work longer hours when you need the money
Tow truck drivers that work for an established company, like AAA, can get steady work.
That’s appealing, especially at a time when many Americans are filing for unemployment.
You Can Be Your Own Boss
You might work as a tow truck operator for a company, but you can also get your own truck and go into business for yourself.
Being your own boss is very appealing to some people. You don’t answer to anyone but you.
This can be as much of a negative as a positive sometimes, though.
Yes, it’s great that you can make your own hours, and you don’t have a boss breathing down your neck. You need to be excellent at self-motivation, though.
If you tend to get lazy if someone isn’t reminding you what to do, then this extra autonomy might work against you.
The Pay Isn’t Usually that Great
You also have to consider that the pay for tow truck operators is seldom wonderful. The more you work, the more compensation you will receive.
Still, most tow truck operators can’t expect to get rich through this profession.
Some tow truck operators use this work as a side hustle. In this economy, it is more common for people to work multiple jobs, especially blue-collar jobs like this one that don’t bring in piles of cash.
You might decide that you’re interested in this profession, but you’ll want to have something else going on the side to make ends meet.
You’ll Have to Meet Certain Requirements
It’s also worth mentioning that you can’t just decide to be a tow truck operator one day and dive right into it.
You’ll have to meet certain qualifications. You’ll have to meet specific educational requirements, as most employers will want at least a GED or a high school diploma.
You’ll need a valid driver’s license, and you must submit to a background check. Some cities and states won’t authorize tow truck drivers who are felons. If you have a criminal past, then that might disqualify you from this job.
You’ll also have to go through the proper training. Some people will find that they have a knack for it, while others will decide that it’s not for them after they learn the particulars of what the job involves.
Expect to Get Drug Tested
If you’re going to be working for a company rather than yourself, you can also expect a drug test before you get hired, and possibly while you’re working.
If you enjoy recreational drugs, then this might not be the job for you.
Overall, some distinct positives and negatives go along with this profession.
You’ll have to weigh them carefully as you decide whether to pursue this career path further, especially during this economically uncertain time.
