What were you thinking? You didn't actually expect your Dodge/Ford/GM/Nissan/Scout/Suzuki/Toyota to climb, cross, float, or jump that trail obstacle, did you? Sure, you must have thought you could do it, and if given the chance again you probably could. Right? Well we'll have to save that bench racing session for another time because right now your rig is either upside down, sinking, being carried away by the current, or freezing solid in a block of ice. Chances are you're a little shaken up or fully pissed off, but put all that aside because it's time for a rescue plan.
That's why we here at 4-Wheel & Off-Road are going to step in and be the calm voice of reason to help get you and your rig to safety. Pay attention now because the following words are going to come in handy when the cruel hand of fate serves up a prime photo op for the 4WOR Whoops! section. You can return the favor by sending us the photos of the ordeal.
The key to any successful vehicle recovery is to stay calm and keep a positive frame of mind. Focus on getting home and taking the truck with you. Don't get distracted by that screaming lunatic (cleverly disguised as your best friend) who thinks that running around swearing is the most helpful thing he can do.
Every extraction should begin by first getting you and your passengers safely out of the vehicle. Only then should you even think about trying to get the vehicle out of harm's way.
Your particular plan of attack will be based on what tools and resources you have, how much time you have, and what has worked for you in the past. Keep in mind that a failed recovery can cause more damage to you, your truck, and the environment-not to mention make for a more difficult extraction. So plan your actions carefully. As a last resort you should always have a "getaway car" that can take you back to civilization, or a cell phone to call in the heavy artillery if all of your ideas and attempts fail.
Worst Case ScenariosThe five most common whoops! scenarios stem from one of the following things, but you the reader never cease to surprise us. We've run photos of parking lot, loading dock, and even crash-into-a-house whoops!