Towing or Recovery in Knoxville: What Dispatch Needs to Know

A vehicle on a level parking lot may need a straightforward tow. A vehicle in a ditch, on soft ground or damaged in a crash can need a recovery assessment first. Describe what you can observe to ACT dispatch; you do not have to choose the truck or recovery equipment yourself.

Describe the vehicle and how it is positioned

• Give the make, model and approximate size. Mention a trailer, cargo or commercial load.

• Explain whether the wheels can roll, the steering works and the keys are available.

• Describe crash damage, a wheel off the pavement, soft ground, a steep slope or a vehicle resting on its side.

• Identify overhead wires, trees, narrow entrances or other limits on truck access.

Do not put yourself in danger to inspect the vehicle or collect a photograph. For a crash, injury or immediate danger, call 911 and follow responder instructions.

Separate recovery from the trip afterward

Tell dispatch both where the vehicle is and where you want it taken. Getting a vehicle back to an accessible position and transporting it afterward may involve different work. Ask what the estimate includes and how additional work will be discussed if conditions differ from the initial description.

A destination name alone may not be enough. Confirm the receiving address, whether someone can accept the vehicle and any gate or unloading restrictions. Tell dispatch if the vehicle is still under police or incident-scene control.

Confirm availability before making plans

ACT dispatch answers 24/7, but nighttime truck availability is limited and after-hours pricing is substantially higher. Calling does not establish a truck assignment or arrival time. Confirm availability, an estimate and expected timing before authorizing the job. If your vehicle is safely parked, ask about daytime options.

Request the appropriate service

Call 866-597-5872 with the pickup point, vehicle condition and destination. Review our Knoxville towing service, winch-out and recovery information, or heavy-vehicle recovery page for the type of situation you need assessed.