When people think of towing services, they often picture wrecked cars and accident scenes. While that’s certainly part of what towing companies do, there are many other common (and far less dramatic) reasons why someone might need a tow truck. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional driver, here are five situations where a towing service can be a lifesaver—no crash required.

1. Dead Battery
There’s nothing more frustrating than turning your key and hearing… nothing. Batteries can die for a number of reasons—cold weather, an old battery, or accidentally leaving your lights on. If you don’t have jumper cables or a second vehicle nearby, calling a tow company with roadside assistance can get you up and running fast.

2. Flat Tire with No Spare
A flat tire is inconvenient, but it gets worse if your spare is missing, flat, or you’re not sure how to change it safely. A tow technician can come equipped to change the tire or tow your vehicle to the nearest shop for repair or replacement.

3. Locked Out of Your Car
Yes, most tow companies can help with lockouts! If you’ve ever locked your keys in the car—or worse, seen them sitting on the driver’s seat while the doors are locked—a towing service can get you back in quickly, without damaging your vehicle.

4. Overheating or Mechanical Failure
Cars can overheat or break down for many reasons—low coolant, worn-out parts, transmission issues. If your engine temperature gauge is in the red or your car just won’t run properly, it’s best to pull over and call for a tow. Continuing to drive could make things worse.

5. Out of Gas
Running out of fuel isn’t just embarrassing—it can also be dangerous if it happens on a busy road or far from a gas station. Towing companies often offer fuel delivery services to get you enough gas to reach the next pump.