Winter in Taylorsville isn’t just about the pretty snow on the Oquirrh Mountains. It’s about white-knuckle drives down Redwood Road and hoping your SUV actually turns over when the thermometer hits 15 degrees. If you’ve lived here long enough, you know the drill, but even the most seasoned Utah drivers get caught off guard when the first real “lake effect” storm hits the Wasatch Front.
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Why Winter Roadside Assistance Hits Different in Utah
Driving in our neck of the woods during January isn’t like driving in a Hallmark movie. It’s messy, it’s cold, and it’s unpredictable. Data from LifeLaw shows that more than 150,000 (specifically 156,164) auto crashes occur annually due to icy roads. That is a staggering number of people who find themselves needing help on the side of the road.
Even worse, over 1,800 people die per year in car crashes caused by snowy and icy conditions. When you’re stuck on the shoulder of I-15 near the 5300 South exit, you aren’t just dealing with a mechanical failure; you’re dealing with a high-risk environment. That’s why having a plan for roadside assistance before the snow starts falling is a smart move.
1. The Battery Check: Your First Line of Defense
I’ve seen it a hundred times: a car starts fine on a crisp October morning, but the first time we get a real freeze, it’s dead in the water. Cold weather is a battery killer. It makes the oil thicker, meaning your engine needs more power to turn over, while simultaneously slowing down the chemical reaction inside the battery that provides that power.
If your battery is more than three years old, get it tested. Most local shops in Taylorsville will do this for free or a very small fee. It’s a lot cheaper than calling for a jump start when you’re trying to leave for work in the dark. Per Grokipedia, optimal battery capacity usually hits its peak at around 77°F, so when Utah winters drop us into the teens, you’re looking at a significant loss in cranking power.
Expert Tip: Don’t just settle for the first person who answers the phone. Prices for towing services can vary significantly in Taylorsville. We always recommend getting at least 3 quotes before making a decision. You might find prices ranging from $75-$150 for a standard tow, so it pays to ask around.
2. Tire Traction and the Redwood Road Reality
Redwood Road is one of the busiest stretches in our city, and during a snowstorm, it becomes a literal ice rink. I can’t tell you how many winch-outs we do near the Valley Fair Mall because someone thought their “all-season” tires were basically snow tires. They aren’t.
Check your tread depth. The old penny test still works—if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, you need new tires. If you’re commuting from Kearns towing zones into Salt Lake, consider dedicated winter tires. The rubber compound in winter tires stays soft in the cold, while all-seasons turn into hard plastic that slides right over the ice.
| Tire Type | Best Temperature Range | Performance on Ice | Taylorsville Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Tires | Above 45°F | Dangerous | Switch by October |
| All-Season | 40°F to 80°F | Moderate/Low | Okay for light snow only |
| Winter/Snow | Below 45°F | High | Highly Recommended |
3. Know Who to Call Before the Emergency Happens
When you’re standing in the snow and your fingers are numb, that’s the worst time to start Googling “towing near me.” You want a company that knows the area. Whether you need Murray towing or help right here in Taylorsville, having a number saved in your phone saves time and stress.
But don’t just pick a name at random. The National Insurance Crime Bureau documented an 89% nationwide rise in predatory towing claims from 2022 to 2024. While much of this is tied to commercial vehicles, it’s a reminder to be careful. Some companies have been known to tow vehicles for minor encroachments and hold them in impound lots with fees ranging from $50 to $65 per tow plus daily storage, as noted in historical records of firms like Lincoln Towing Service.
Expert Tip: Check reviews and references. Any reputable towing company in Taylorsville should be happy to provide references from recent customers or point you to their online feedback. If they seem cagey about their reputation, move on.
4. Prepare Your Winter Survival Kit
If you slide off the road in a rural part of the valley or even just get stuck in a massive backup on I-15, you might be waiting a while. Roadside assistance response times can stretch during a major blizzard because everyone is calling at once. You need to be able to stay warm.
Heavy blankets or a sleeping bag: Space blankets are okay, but a real wool blanket is better. A portable power bank: Your car battery might be dead, and you need your phone to stay in contact. Small shovel and ice melt: Sometimes you can get yourself out of a parking spot without a tow. High-calorie snacks and water: Keep them in the cabin, not the trunk, so you don’t have to get out to reach them.
It’s also worth watching a quick guide on winter driving techniques to remind yourself how to steer out of a skid. Most people panic and slam the brakes, which is the worst thing you can do on black ice.
5. Special Considerations for Electric Vehicles
If you’ve made the switch to an EV, winter brings a whole new set of challenges. Cold weather can sap an EV’s range by 20% to 40% because the battery has to work overtime to keep the cabin warm. If you run out of juice, you can’t just walk to a gas station with a plastic can. You’ll need specialized roadside assistance.
Towing an EV is also different. Most manufacturers require flatbed towing to prevent damage to the electric motors. Per Grokipedia, even high-end trucks like the 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning have specific towing capacities (up to 10,000 pounds) and requirements that differ from their diesel counterparts. If you’re driving an EV in Midvale towing territory, make sure you tell the dispatcher exactly what you’re driving so they send the right equipment.
Understanding Towing Regulations and Your Rights
Many drivers don’t realize that the towing industry is heavily regulated to protect you. For example, the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates interstate commercial towing for vehicles over 10,001 pounds. This includes hours-of-service rules to ensure your driver isn’t exhausted. Per Grokipedia, drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 hours off-duty. This keeps everyone on the road safer.
When the tow truck arrives, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You are the customer, and you have rights. If you’re being towed from an accident scene, you usually have the right to choose where your car goes, whether that’s a specific shop in Millcreek towing zones or your own driveway.
Expert Tip: Ask about warranties. Quality towing work should come with a warranty, especially for repairs or roadside fixes like battery replacements. Make sure you understand what’s covered before signing any paperwork.
What to Do if You’re Stranded Right Now
If you’re reading this because you’re currently stuck on the side of the road, stop and take a breath. If you are on a highway like I-15, stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt on. It sounds counterintuitive, but the car is a much safer “cage” if another vehicle slides into you. Turn on your hazard lights immediately.
If you need a jump start, fuel delivery, or a flatbed tow, we’re here to help. We cover everything from Taylorsville and Murray to Cottonwood Heights towing needs. Our team handles everything from standard wreckers to heavy-duty recovery.
The Economic Reality of Local Towing
Choosing a local company isn’t just about speed; it’s about supporting the local economy. While some large national dispatch services might seem convenient, they often contract out to whoever is cheapest. A local Taylorsville firm provides steady employment for your neighbors. For instance, some long-term drivers in the industry have been with their firms since the 1980s, providing a level of expertise you just can’t get from a “gig economy” app.
Reliable service generates local economic activity through equipment maintenance and local fees. When you call us at 801-980-3535, you’re getting someone who knows exactly where the slick spots are on the 4700 South overpass and how to get to you without getting stuck in the same drift.
Winter Roadside Assistance Checklist
Before the next storm hits Taylorsville, run through this quick checklist to make sure you’re ready:
- Test the Battery: If it’s struggling now, it will fail when it’s 10 degrees.
- Check Tire Pressure: Pressure drops as the temperature falls. Fill them to the manufacturer’s spec.
- Clear Your Vision: Replace old wiper blades and fill up on winter-grade washer fluid (the orange or blue stuff that won’t freeze).
- Save the Number: Put 801-980-3535 in your contacts under “Towing.”
- Inspect Your Spare: A flat tire is bad; a flat spare tire is a tragedy. Make sure your jack and lug wrench are actually in the car.
Winter in Utah is beautiful, but it demands respect. Whether you’re heading to the mall or just commuting to Sandy towing areas, being prepared is the difference between a minor inconvenience and a really bad night. Stay safe out there, keep your distance from the car in front of you, and remember that we’re always just a phone call away if the road gets the better of you.
Ready to Get Started? Contact Taylorsville Towing Today
When you need professional towing services in Taylorsville and surrounding communities, Taylorsville Towing is here to help. Our experienced team provides quality workmanship with transparent pricing and a commitment to your complete satisfaction.
Save our number — you’ll need it Call us at 801-980-3535.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do car batteries fail more frequently during Taylorsville winters?
Cold weather slows down the chemical reactions inside a battery while making engine oil thicker, which requires more power to start the vehicle. If your battery is more than three years old, it is highly recommended to have it tested before the first major freeze.
Are all-season tires safe for driving on icy roads like Redwood Road?
While all-season tires are acceptable for light snow, they often turn hard like plastic in freezing temperatures, reducing traction. Dedicated winter tires are recommended for Utah winters because their rubber compound stays soft, providing much better grip on ice and packed snow.
How much does a standard tow cost in the Taylorsville area?
Prices for a standard tow in Taylorsville typically range from $75 to $150. To ensure you get a fair rate, it is recommended to get at least three quotes and check company reviews before making a decision.
What should I include in my vehicle’s winter survival kit?
A basic survival kit should include heavy wool blankets, a portable power bank for your phone, a small shovel, and ice melt. You should also keep high-calorie snacks and water inside the cabin so they are easily accessible if you become stranded.
What is the most common mistake drivers make when skidding on ice?
Many drivers panic and slam on their brakes, which is the worst thing to do on black ice as it causes a total loss of control. Instead, you should remain calm and practice proper steering techniques to guide the vehicle out of the skid.