New to using my winch, question.

Different Strokes for different situations. Make sure you know the difference between recovery straps/ropes and Snatch(Kinetic) straps/ropes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEbHplg6baw

 

It's fine, for sure there are more expensive ones but that will do the job just fine.

 

Is that the same as a recovery strap? nevermind, just saw the video link for that question.

 

Not only damage to your vehicle but also damage to the other persons vehicle. Recently an older lady had ran over a curb and into a small ditch at the local gas station. When a cop showed up, I told the cop that I have a winch on my truck it won’t take much to pull her out (she was barely stuck). He said no, but thanks, he would rather wait on the tow truck just to protect me from being liable for any damages to her car. Made me second think offering recovery help to random people in the future.

OP just be aware that you could become liable for any damages to the other persons vehicle. Even if you were trying to help them.

 

1982 Subaru Hatchback pulling out of the ditch a full sized Plymouth... hint, the transport tie down on the rear of frame is NOT a recovery point...

 

This right here. If there is any damage done to their car by you pulling them out, then you are on the hook for the bill. In many states its also illegal to do recovery on public roads without insurance and a license for it.

I always want to help people on the side of the road, but I stop at moving their car/truck. Gas, flat tire, battery are all on the table, but not towing.

 

This. People nowadays are likely to take you to court for any damage done to their vehicle while you are trying to help them out.

 

Unless it's a good friend of yours, I would avoid helping a car that you can't find the recovery point on. Cars without recovery hooks instead have holes in the frame mean for a tow hook from a tow truck.

Soft shackles AND steel shackles both have their use and place, so carry both!

As far as scenarios go....if it doesn't feel right, don't do it. Remember, you're doing people a favor so operate inside your comfort zone.

 

I had the exact same thing happen to me. Older couple jumped the curb in the to go line at a Jack in the Box and were stuck. The lot security guard was with them. He wanted to call a tow truck, but they didn't have AAA and couldn't afford the tow fee. I offered to pull them out but only on the condition that the security guard hook up my winch line to their vehicle and that I wouldn't be responsible for any damage. They agreed and I had them out in 30 seconds and on their way.

This thread has me rethinking that as well. If anything did happen, our verbal agreement wouldn't have meant a damn thing

 

Yep, its a hard choice sometimes. You know you can help, but you know you dont have the same shield as a tow company has. Thats why I stick with wellness check, fluids, and tire help. I have strobes on my truck for the very purpose of stopping to help people and give other drivers the alert that there is a disabled vehicle.

 

Good advice, thanks. I will have to order the steel shackles!

 

Ever watch someone being pulled out and revving their engine and spinning tires like it was a race only, to slam into the back of the tow vehicle when free... ya, just can't fix stupi...