Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Is it Time to Replace Your Timing Belt?

With the busyness of life, and often times lack of knowledge in regard to your vehicle, your timing belt can be forgotten. Unfortunately, the timing belt plays a bigger role in your vehicle than you may have realized, and if it fails, you could be stranded on the road or without a vehicle for a while. Here are a few important things to know about your timing belt, and how the best automotive center at the Lake of the Ozarks can help.


What is a Timing Belt?

A timing belt is a ribbed belt that can be found on the side of your engine. It's placed in such a way that it keeps the top half of your engine in sync with te bottom half. In a non-interference engine, it doesn't cause any issue when the timing belt breaks, but in interference engines, it's a whole different story.

What Does My Timing Belt Do?

If you have an interference engine, the valve's and piston's stroke take up the same space in the cylinder. The timing belt essentially keeps the pistons and the valves from smashing into each other. If the timing belt snaps, they run into each other. There are many things that can happen from bent valves to cylinder head or camshaft damage, maybe even piston and cylinder wall damage.

In a non-interference engine, the pistons and valves don't share the same space, and if the timing belt snaps there is no cylinder or valve damage. You can just add a new belt and the engine should typically be fine.

How Much Does it Cost to Change a Timing Belt?

It's not always as simple as just replacing the timing belt, because of this, the cost is not very straightforward until we can get under the hood and take a look. It is suggested to also replace the water pump, tensioner, and pulleys when you replace the timing belt, as well as any damage that could have occurred when the timing belt snapped.

Signs That My Timing Belt Needs to be Replaced

Occasionally, when the timing belt needs to be replaced, you'll hear a ticking sound from the engine. Sometimes you'll also notice that the engine misfires or doesn't even turn over at all. Sometimes you'll even notice oil leaking from the front of the engine. Unfortunately, in many cases, you don't realize the timing belt needs to be replaced until it's too late. You can check your vehicle's owner's manual to get a better idea of when the belt replaced. Many manufacturers say it should be replaced no later than 120,000 miles.


Vehicle Maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks

From easy maintenance like tire changes and windshield wiper replacements to more complicated maintenance like having to replace a timing belt at the Lake of the Ozarks - we can help. Count on your local automotive shop at the Lake of the Ozarks to care for your vehicle and get you back on the road - FAST!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Thursday, December 22, 2016

The Best Times to Travel During the Holiday Season

As you pack up your vehicle and head over the hills and through the woods, there are a few ways you can help keep your travel plans less stressful. While practicing safe driving habits is key, you can also plan your trip around the least traveled times! 91% of holiday travelers are making their trek by personal vehicle, making a predicted 103 million Americans on the road, so it only makes sense to try and travel the road less taken. At Bledsoe's Towing, we want to help you have a safe holiday weekend, travel and all! Here are a few tips on keeping your travel safe and finding the best times to make the drive.


Driving To Your Holiday Destination

Try to pick times that most travelers wouldn't choose. Early morning and night travel are obviously the first choices, but be aware that night driving also has risks. You can expect to find the roads a bit more congested late in the day and late in the week. Try to choose travel times that are earlier in the day, as midday and evening traffic is normally heavier.

Also, remember that Hanukkah starts at sundown on Saturday, so traffic may be even busier than anticipated with the additional holiday.

Coming Home

Monday, December 26th is expected to be extremely busy with holiday traffic, as people start to make their way back home so they can be at work on Tuesday. While it may not be ideal, Christmas day is generally less busy. Otherwise, you can choose times that are later in the day to make your trek.

Friday, December 30th is also anticipated to be busy with the New Year's traffic. Choosing travel days that are midweek is a great way to help avoid the traffic.

Driving Safety Tips

As you're out on the road, be sure to remember safe driving practices. If you'll be traveling in snowy or icy conditions, prepare for them appropriately and don't go too fast. No matter the conditions, make sure that you allow plenty of room between you and the car in front of you to avoid incidents.


Keep Your Vehicle In Tip-Top Condition

Before you take your car out on the road, bring it out to Bledsoe's Towing! We can check your headlights, tires, oil, and other fluids as well as other automotive services at the Lake of the Ozarks. Our goal is to keep you safe out on the road. However, if you do find yourself in a pickle over the weekend, we offer 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks and would love to come to the rescue.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Tips for Driving Safe in the Rain

The last few days have been on the dreary side of life, and with that, comes the chance for accidents and incidents due to the inclemate weather. Rain, fog, clouds, and now cooler weather all play a part in the driving conditions, and while we are the best tow company at the Lake of the Ozarks, we really don't want to see you in a position where you need us. Here are a few ways you can drive safely in rainy weather, and hopefully see less of us!


Did You Know

While you probably assumed driving in the rain was dangerous, did you know that it's more dangerous than driving in the snow? Research has shown that 46 percent of weather-related crashes happened during rainfall, but only 17 percent while it was snowing or sleeting. Of course, this is in part because drivers tend to stay home when the weather gets bad, but it does also show that drivers as a whole don't acknowledge the dangers of driving in the rain.

Rain Ready

The tread on your tires makes a huge difference in your ability to keep control of your vehicle. One way you can check is by grabbing a quarter (some say to use a penny, but some researchers say a quarter is more accurate). Insert the quarter in your tire and if Washington's head is always covered by the tire than you should have more than 4/32 of an inch of tread remaining. If the top of Washington's head is exposed, you need to get new tires. At Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive we have the best tires at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Tire pressure is also important. Check your pressure once a month, using a tire gauge. You also want to check your windshield wipers to make sure they are ready to function properly when you're out on the road. Finally, check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals and make sure they are all in working order. 

Keep It Slow

In order to stay safe out on the road, be sure to keep a safe distance between you and the other drivers. A good way to know how far to stay back is by staying about 3-4 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. When the vehicle in front of you passes a fixed marker, like a street light, count three seconds. Add more time if it's raining, like five seconds, and then add another second per driving challenge.

Beware of Technology

There is some technology that is safe to use in bad weather, others that are not - the key is knowing which is which. Cruise control is not safe to use while you're driving in the rain because you lose some early weight transfer as you let off the gas. Traction-control, however, is made for rainy days and can prevent the wheels from slipping on wet pavement.Your antilock braking is also meant to prevent the loss of steering control during hard braking, especially on wet and slippery roads.

Stay Safe on the Roads

Whether you're driving on a bright and sunny day, or a wet dreary day, the Bledsoe's team hopes you have a safe time on the road. Whether you find yourself with a broken windshield wiper or stuck in a ditch, our automotive company at the Lake of the Ozarks is here to help. Give us a call at (573) 346-7050 for 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Monday, December 5, 2016

7 Things You Should Know About Your Car

Your car may seem like a complicated piece of machinery - or even technology at this point, but just like any other piece of equipment, you need to know how it works. While you can hire the best auto maintenance company at the Lake of the Ozarks to make repairs or give you a tow when you're stranded, there are some situations where you may need to know how to find your way around your vehicle on your own. Here are a few things you'll want to know when you operate your vehicle.


Know the Mechanics

If your car overheats and needs some coolant added, but you don't know where the radiator is - this could make for a challenging situation. Take a few moments to put out your owner's manual and pop the hood of your vehicle. Whether you want to find the windshield wiper fluid or the oil dipstick - it's easier when you know where to look.

Inspect Your Parking Spot

Keeping an eye on your parking spot can give you a heads up for any issues before they become big problems. Leaking oil, radiator fluid and more can be seen when you are aware of what's being left on the concrete while your vehicle sits there.

Pay Attention to Detail

The problems are in the details. When you notice your vehicle making a strange noise, reacting differently to starting and stopping, or even smelling odd - Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive can help. Pay attention to the details so you can explain it to our mechanics, this can make the diagnosis faster.

Know the Levels

Do you know how to check the levels of water and oil in your vehicle? If you don't, you may want to pull out the manual of your car and learn. This won't seem necessary - until you need it.

Don't Tailgate

Tailgating not only puts you too close to a vehicle (especially if it brakes) but it doesn't allow you to see and react to things in the road. If there isn't enough distance between you and the car ahead and something happens to be in the middle of the road, you don't have time to react, and you're only option is to either hit it, or dodge around it - which is dangerous.

Learn Some Simple Maintenance

Learning how to change a tire is one of the most important. While we offer 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks, and would love to come to your aid, sometimes you just need to know how to do a few things. Checking your oil, and being able to add new oil is also a good thing to know.

Keep it Clean

Finally, keep your vehicle clean. Not only will this help it last longer, but it can make it easier to perform certain maintenance tasks.

Automotive Maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks

From quick fixes to lengthy repairs, Bledsoe's Towing is here to help. We have been located at the Lake of the Ozarks for over 50 years, and when you're looking for a trusted mechanic - we're the place. Do you have questions about your vehicle? Give us a call! Even if it's as simple as the check engine light, we can offer some troubleshooting before you bring your car out.



Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Tuesday, November 29, 2016

How To Eliminate Driving Distractions

Driving can seem like a mundane, day to day deal, something ordinary and basic. While this may be true, it's also true that driving can be dangerous - and made worse by distractions. There are so many things being thrown at you every day, and they don't go away when you get behind the wheel. At Bledsoe's Towing, we see first-hand the dangers of distracted driving. As the best tow company at the Lake of the Ozarks, we respond to the scene of many incidents, and we don't want you to be the next. Here are a few ways you can decrease distractions while you're driving and help keep you safe on the road.


What Is Distracting You?

Did you know that 10 percent of all drivers 15-19 years old involved in fatal crashes were reported as distracted at the time? At any given moment in the United States, there are 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating an electronic device. So what is distracting you, and what is considered distracted driving? It's any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving. Here are a few things competing for your attention:

  • Texting
  • Using a cell phone or smartphone
  • Eating and drinking
  • Talking to passengers
  • Grooming
  • Reading, including maps
  • Using a navigation system
  • Watching a video
  • Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player
  • Smoking
  • Pets


How to Eliminate Distractions

The most important thing is to focus on driving. If there is anything that is grabbing your attention, do what you can to eliminate it. Adjust your mirrors and find your radio station before you start driving, and put your cell phone in a place where you don't have access to it. If you think anyone will be concerned that you don't answer your cell phone immediately, you can state in your voicemail that you don't answer while driving and that you will get back with them soon. There are no reasons that are better than your safety.

Another way to eliminate distractions is to stow away all loose articles in your car. It's instinctive to want to catch something if it rolls or flies across your vehicle, so if you secure it safely before you begin, that is one less thing to worry about.

Keeping You Safe From Beginning to End

At Bledsoe's Towing, we know first-hand how dangerous it can be to drive distracted, and we hope that you use safe driving practices so that you don't have to call us. If, however, you do find yourself in a sticky situation, Bledsoe's Towing provides the best 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks. We would be glad to come get you and bring you back to the shop to then figure out what happened. Visit our website to learn more about our services, or give us a call at (573) 346-7050!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Wednesday, November 23, 2016

3 Ways to Stay Safe During Thanksgiving Travel

Along with holiday festivities comes holiday travel, and according the AAA there will be 48.7 million Americans traveling over 50 miles from home.With excessive travel comes the possibility of auto accidents, vehicle malfunctions and more. At Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive, we see many of the things that can happen to you while you're on the road, and we are here to help. Here are a few ways you can stay safe while out on the road, and how Bledsoe's Towing can help!


Get a Check Up

Before taking your vehicle out on the road for a long drive, you can't go wrong with having it looked over. We can check the level of your fluids, your brakes, tires and more. If you'll be going on a long drive, you may even want to have your oil changed before making the trek. Don't forget to check your windshield wipers and your headlights as well. If you'll be going on a long trip, you will probably run into some type of weather, and it's best to be prepared for it with good wiper blades and lights.

When you have your car looked over before a trip, it can help diagnose any issues that might arise, and catch them before you're stuck on the side of the road. Of course, if you do find yourself stranded, don't forget to call the best towing company at the Lake of the Ozarks. We pride ourselves on taking care of you and your family and getting you back on the road fast.

Plan Your Route

During this busy time of year, it's always a good idea to make sure you know exactly where you are going. Getting lost, missing your exit, and taking wrong turns can all make for a stressed out ride. Not to mention, when you are stressed, it's harder to make safe decisions. While looking over your route, check to see if there will be any construction in between point A and point B. Road construction can add to your travel time and make the trip harder to navigate.

Drive Safe

Just as much as ever before, make sure that you are using safe practises while you're out on the road. Keep plenty of distance between you and the other vehicles. It has commonly been thought that you only need a distance of ten cars in order to stop while going 70 miles per hour, but you really need twenty four cars length to stop. If you run into any bad weather, you'll want to keep even more of a distance.

Happy Thanksgiving From Bledsoe's Towing

From the time you leave till the time you get back, the Bledsoe's Towing family hopes you have a safe and wonderful holiday. Should you have any car troubles, don't forget to call Bledsoe's for the best automotive care at the Lake of the Ozarks. Happy Thanksgiving!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Ready or not, old man winter is making his way to our area soon - is your car ready for him? Every year winter comes and goes, and you never know whether to expect a harsh winter with snow, ice, and chilly temperatures - or a mild winter where it feels like you can still keep your garden going. No matter what happens, there are a few things you can do for your vehicle to help make the transition to winter, and the survival of winter a little smoother and easier. At Bledsoe's Towing, we want to keep you safe on the road for every season, so here are a few ways to get your car prepared for winter!

Check Your Antifreeze

When your antifreeze is low, it can prevent the coolant from running properly because it could freeze. This can inhibit your engine's ability to cool, and even in cold weather, it could overheat. Are you afraid that your coolant is low? Bring your car out to Bledsoe's Towing and we'll take a look at it for you.

Keep The Tank Full

Not only is it a good idea to keep your fuel tank above half because it helps it to run smoothly, but in the winter you just never know what to expect. Have you ever been stuck in bad winter traffic where everyone is trying to get home at two miles per hour? Your twenty minute drive just became two hours, and if you don't have enough fuel to keep your car running that long, you'll have more issues than staying on a slick road.

Get Your Tires Rotated & Aligned

Your tires play a huge role in getting you from point A to point B, so make sure they are in tip-top shape for the upcoming winter. If they are starting to bald, you'll want to check them, and potentially replace them. You want to have plenty of grip on your tires when you venture out into inclimate weather. You also want to stay on top of having them rotated and aligned. This helps to keep your tires in good condition by wearing them properly.

Change Our Your Windshield Wiper Fluid

Chances are, if you'll be driving much this winter, you'll run into some form of weather where you need your windshield wiper fluid. There are also summer blends and winter blends to consider. While the summer blend is mostly water, the winter blend has other compounds added to it to keep it from freezing.

Pack Your Car Properly

Finally, you want to pack your car appropriately. While we don't live in an area where sudden blizzards are common, it doesn't hurt to keep a few items in your car just in case you need them. Think of things like nonperishable food, some water, blankets, gloves and hats. You'll also want to have things for your car like jumper cables, a bag of kitty litter or sand to help get you out of a ditch. Or, you can program our phone number into your phone so that if you do end up somewhere that you didn't intend you can give us a call for the best towing service at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Best Car Shop at the Lake of the Ozarks

Are you looking for a place to bring your vehicle for a tune up or repair? At Bledsoe's Towing we specialize in keeping your car up and running no matter what season - but we definitely want to help you prepare for this season and make your winter driving a success!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Thursday, November 10, 2016

5 Vehicle Fluids You Won't Want To Forget To Fill

Just like you need water to survive, your car has a list of fluids that it needs in order to perform as it should. Each fluid has a specific purpose and has a unique ability to keep your car running for longer, and at it's best capacity. While you may not notice these fluids on a day to day basis, you will certainly notice them if they aren't there. At Bledsoe's Towing, we make it a point to check your fluids when you visit the best mechanic at the Lake of the Ozarks, so you don't have to worry about them. Here are a few of the fluids that you will want to keep your eye on when operating your vehicle.


Engine Oil

Oil is like the blood of your car, without it, you aren't getting very far. Engine oil accomplishes three key functions in your engine. It will help keep your engine components working smoothly together because the oil is constantly lubricating all of the functioning parts. It also helps keep your engine cool. Your engine is made up of thousands of controlled detonations, and they happen consistently while running. The oil helps draw the heat away from the combustion chamber and cool off your engine. Finally, it also helps keep the carbon and varnishes from increasing in your engine. With all of these important tasks, I'm sure you can see why it's important to keep this fluid full and clean.

Coolant

Coolant is made up of a mixture of antifreeze and water. It's stored in your car's radiator and helps to keep your car from overheating and eventual breakdown. While you can mix your own coolant with 50/50 water and antifreeze, it's better to leave that to the pros. If the mix isn't right it could increase the boiling point and decrease the freezing point, which could cause problems down the line.

Power Steering Fluid

This fluid transmits power in power steering. If you don't know what power steering is, you'll certainly find out when this fluid runs out! It allows you to easily steer your car without a lot of effort. If your car has ever suddenly died, and you can't turn the wheel without a LOT of effort, that's what happens when you have no power steering.

Brake Fluid

The reason brake fluid is so important, is because  it plays an important role in your braking system as it transfers the force created when you press the brake pedal directly onto the wheel hub. Braking is considered an undeniably important feature in your driving, as we're sure you would agree. Brake fluid also provides a lubricant for all of the moving parts and prevents corrosion.

Windshield Washer Fluid

While it may seem obvious why the windshield washer fluid is important, there are actually other reasons as well. Aside from it being important so you can clear your windshield of debris, having fluid in the reservoir also performs another function. It keeps the pumps and hoses in the reservoir lubricated and from corroding and degrading.


Best Car Maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks

Our team of mechanics take their job seriously. We want to keep you out on the road longer, and with as few issues as possible. Of course, if you do happen to have a problem with your car, we would love to take a look at it and get it back up and running. If your car is not in a position to move - we even provide towing at the Lake of the Ozarks! Stop by our shop for your one-stop mechanic shop at the Lake of the Ozarks!



Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Tuesday, November 1, 2016

Caring For Your Tires in Every Season

These four wheels keep you rolling down the road, and when you treat them right, they'll last you even longer. Every season provides a new element that your tires have to navigate, and Bledsoe's Towing would like to help you treat your tires well. From spring to summer and winter to fall, here are a few ways you can care for your tires!

Spring

Spring can bring a whole new element of water and wetness with the constant rain. The first most important thing you can do is check the tread on your tires to make sure that there will be plenty of grip as you drive down those wet roads. You can even do a penny test to learn if there is enough tread on your tires. Put the penny in with Abraham Lincoln's head down, and if you can see the top of his head, you need new tires. 

When you're driving in wet weather, be sure to always slow down before turning and don't make any sudden wheel movements. If you are hydroplaning, don't accelerate or brake suddenly. Keep your foot lightly on the gas and steer the car forward until your tires regain traction.

Summer

It's important to check your tire pressure in the summer and do it regularly. You'll want to keep it at the level that is recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Did you know that the tire pressure listed on your sidewalls is the maximum pressure and is not intended to provide you the correct pressure? You can find correct inflation levels on your door post, fuel door, glove box, or in the owner's manual. Keep in mind that under inflation creates excessive stress and heat, and may lead to tire failure. You also want to keep over inflation from happening as well, it can cause uneven wear, and handling and stopping problems.

Fall

Much like spring, the tread on your tires is still very important. Sometimes fall can involve a lot of rain, and you're just coming out of summer where you may have taken long road trips for vacation. Check the tread on a regular basis to make sure that you're not causing a hazard on the road.

Winter

Finally, in the winter, you want to make sure that your tire pressure is accurate. You can generally guess that the pressure should be reduced by 1 psi for every 10-degree drop in temperature. You also want to remember that cold weather makes tire rubber less pliable, which can cause air leaks. Inspect your sidewalls for signs of damage or cracking, and if you have any problems, bring your car out to Bledsoe's Towing for the best tires at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Are you looking for a company who can take care of your car and get it back on the road fast? At Bledsoe's Towing, we specialize in automotive repair at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we would be happy to help you when your car is in a bind. If you have trouble while you're out on the road, and can't get into town, never fear! We provide 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks and can save the day. Visit our website to learn more about our company, or give us a call for assistance!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Friday, October 28, 2016

Important Driving Tips For Halloween

As Halloween approaches, it's time to start being even more aware of your surroundings when flying driving! While Halloween is a fun night to get out and trick-or-treat, you should also remember that it can be one of the most dangerous nights for kids and adults of all ages. In fact, according to Sperling's BestPlaces, fatalities more than double on Halloween versus any other night, and most of the fatalities occurred with children ages 12-15 (32% of all child fatalities), followed by children ages 5-8 (23%).



At Bledsoe's Towing, we want to help keep you, other children, and even your car safe as you enjoy the holiday. Here are a few things to remember as your drive around the area with, or without, trick-or-treaters in tow.

Be Aware & Eliminate Distractions

While we will be the first to tell you that safe driving starts with distraction-free driving ALWAYS, it's especially important on the evenings surrounding Halloween. Put your phone down, and don't mess around with the radio. The majority of accidents on this night do not happen at intersections - they happen on roadways where you're not expecting children to dash out.

If you'll be on the road between 4 PM and 8 PM, those are the most common times you'll find children out and about. No matter what night Halloween falls on you'll want to be cautious of the weekend before and after the holiday, as many activities will be scheduled then instead of the day of.

Watch & Communicate

You'll want to watch out for children dashing across the street. If one of your headlights is out, this is a great time to replace it so you have adequate light to see properly. You'll also want to communicate with other drivers, and if you're pulling over to drop kids off to get candy - always put your hazards on. As well, if a car pulls over ahead of you, please try not to pass it. You never know when a child will come running out in front.

You Aren't Just Watching for Kids

If you thought the only thing you were watching for was children - think again. Many adults celebrate Halloween and the celebrations are likely to include alcohol. Check out these sobering facts from Julie Butcher Law about Halloween and intoxication:
  • 54 people died in vehicle accidents on Halloween night in 2012 nationwide.
  • Nearly half of the fatalities occurred in accidents involving drunk drivers. On an average day, a third of traffic fatalities are alcohol-related.
  • 28% of Halloween crash fatalities were pedestrians, double the rate on an average day.
  • From 2008 to 2012, 21% of pedestrian fatalities on Halloween night involved a drunk driver.
If you will be celebrating the night with alcohol, please drink responsibly and call a cab or find a designated driver who can get you home safely. 

Happy Halloween from Bledsoe's Towing!

We hope that you all have a wonderful holiday filled with fun games, great costumes, and obviously - LOTS of candy! Should you find that you ended up with more of a "trick" instead of "treat", and your car is malfunctioning, we can help. From tires and oil changes to windshield replacement and towing or accident recovery, our car mechanics at the Lake of the Ozarks want to serve you. Have a safe night, and if you find yourself in a ditch, call the best towing company at the Lake of the Ozarks!


Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Tuesday, October 18, 2016

Questions to Ask Your Towing Company

When you call us or your roadside assistance program for a tow, we can wager that it's because you're stranded on the road and need help. While this is normally a situation where you don't have a lot of time to ask questions and just need results, there are a few things you want to know about before getting your tow. At Bledsoe's Towing, we provide expert towing services at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we look forward to responding to your call. Here are a few questions you should ask your towing company when you give them a call, or even beforehand to solidify a relationship before the emergency!



What are your hours?

This can be an extremely important question when you're looking for a towing company that has your best interest at heart. While some companies may only respond to your call at certain hours of the day, Bledsoe's Towing will respond to your call about towing at the Lake of the Ozarks twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. We're available when you're in need.

What is your response time?

While this can vary depending on the situation and what all is going on, our primary goal is to get to you as soon as we can so that you aren't stuck for longer than necessary. If you call your roadside assistance, you are dependent on their response time as well as ours, so you have to wait a little longer in some cases. When you call us directly, we send an employee out at the shortest possible moment to respond to your call

Do you accept my insurance?

You always want to ask your towing company if they accept your insurance. In many cases, it works out in your favor, especially when you get a hold of us through your roadside assistance program. If this is something that worries you, please, give us a call before you ever have an emergency. It's always a good idea to know who you'll call when you're in a hurry for an answer. Call us and figure out if we can accept your insurance, learn about our process, how to pay us, and what areas we respond to, and then program our number into your phone so you can call us quickly if anything happens.

What does your quote include?

This is a great question to ask your towing company because sometimes it's helpful to know if they can repair a tire while they're out, or give you a ride somewhere since your vehicle is being towed to the shop. 

The best part about hiring Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive for your towing needs is that we can also get your car back on the road with our expert vehicle maintenance services at the Lake of the Ozarks. Does your car just need basic tuning up? We can help with that too! Bring your vehicle out to our shop. We're conveniently located off the square in Camdenton and we would be glad to take a look and have your car running as good as new!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Common Car Maintenance You May Forget About

If you've ever looked under the hood of your car, you know that there are many details, and most are pretty complicated. All of those details need a fair amount of maintenance in order to continue working, thankfully, at Bledsoe's Towing, we can help you stay on top of all maintenance that your car needs in order to continue working properly. Here are a few maintenance procedures that should be done on a regular basis that you may have forgotten about.

Oil Change

If you forget about this important detail, you could find your vehicle in worse shape than you expected. A survey by Car Care actually found that 25% of vehicles actually have issues with their engine oil. What would your car do without oil? It would be like you running around without blood. The car oil coats the metal and keeps it from pressing too hard against each other.

Air Filter

Did you know that your car had an air filter? This little - but important piece - plays a huge role in your vehicle, and when it's dirty, it won't run to it's fullest potential. The same survey by Car Care actually found that 18% of vehicles on the road had problems with their air filter. It's important to bring this into the best car maintenance shop at the Lake of the Ozarks to get it taken care of.

Brake Fluid

This is important, for pretty obvious reasons! 13% of cars on the road had issues with their brake fluid, and we think that it's too high. Your brakes are part of what keeps you out of the ditch, and it's vitally important that you stay on the road where you belong.

Coolant Levels

Don't be one of the 17% of cars with low coolant levels. Engine coolant protects the aluminum engine parts, keeps the engine from overheating, and also keeps it from freezing. You don't just need enough coolant (also known as antifreeze) in the summer, it's just as vitally important in the winter.

Wiper Fluid

You only realize that you don't have it when you need it. This can go unnoticed because you only use your wiper fluid when your windshield is dirty. 16% of cars don't have the appropriate amount of fluid, and this can impact your visual abilities, which can affect the safety of you and your passengers.

Belts

There are many vehicles that need their belts changed after so many miles have been put on the engine. When these belts aren't changed enough, they don't just break, and you go on. They can actually cause serious problems, that can cost a lot of money to repair. Are you one of the 17% that needs new belts? Don't be in the category. Come out to Bledsoe's Towing to get your car belt changed at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Vehicle Service at the Lake of the Ozarks

Don't be one of the 84% of vehicles on the road that need service or repair! That number is way higher than we'd like to see it, which is why we make it our priority to care for your vehicle with expert care. Come visit our shop, give us a call or drop in, and we'd be glad to get your car looked at, and even answer your questions. Sometimes it's as simple as tightening your gas cap, other times, it needs full repair - and we can take care of this.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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Tuesday, October 4, 2016

What Should You Do In Case Of A Car Accident?

The unthinkable has happened, you were driving down the road and suddenly, something unexpected happened and now you are in the ditch. After you've assessed the situation, it's time to start acting. Was there anyone else involved? Is your car capable of running? All of these are important questions to ask yourself. At Bledsoe's Towing, we take your safety seriously and we want to make sure that no matter what, you and your family are safe.

We provide 24 hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we'll be on the way to rescue you shortly. Before we get there, here are a few things you should do to make sure that you are covered and taken care of.

Assess the Situation

First, you want to make sure that no one has been injured. If everyone is okay, you'll want to make sure before ever stepping out of your vehicle that you have not hit any power lines. If you have, you'll want to stay in your vehicle to limit your risk of electrocution. If you smell smoke, though, this will change how you handle yourself, and you'll want to get out safely, but with certain precautions. If this is the case, you should jump away from the vehicle without touching it, and land with both feet together. Then hop as far away as possible keeping both feet together - but this is only in worst case scenarios.

Set Up Alerts

If you vehicle still works, you'll want to put your emergency blinkers on. If your vehicle is incapable of starting, you should put reflective cones around your vehicle to warn other drivers that you are having trouble so they can be careful around you. If you don't have any reflective cones in your vehicle, now is the time to get them so you'll be prepared.

Call the Police

When you are involved in an accident, you always want to call the police - especially if there is another vehicle involved. By calling the police you are protecting yourself and your car because they can file a police report which can be used when you file a claim. This is even more important if there is someone else involved because it will verify who was really at fault in the accident.

Call Your Lake of the Ozarks Tow Company

Bledsoe's Towing is open 24 hours a day, so no matter what time you find yourself in a sticky situation, we are ready to come to your rescue. While you want to call us quickly so we can be on the way, please call the police first. We will ask you several questions regarding the type of vehicle you have and the condition of the vehicle like whether it starts or not.

Keeping You Safe One Vehicle At a Time

From rescuing you on the highway with our towing services to helping keep you out of the ditch by keeping your car in working order, Bledsoe's Towing is here to help. We have the best vehicle maintenance at the lake of the Ozarks, and we would be honored to not only answer your car questions but fix them too. Visit our website to learn more about our services, or give us a call to get the answers you need.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5
Camdenton, Missouri 65020


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