MILWAUKEE — The bitter cold and snow signal the start of a busy season for most auto repair shops and roadside assistance teams across Wisconsin.
Paul and Donna Tadeyeske, a husband-and-wife team, own Roadside Auto Rescue in Milwaukee. The couple started the business 10 years ago, after witnessing the high demand for help during Wisconsin winters.
“We actually see a lot of people stranded, and that’s what motivated us to keep doing this business. We stop and help every time, and sometimes we don’t even charge them,” Donna Tadeyeske said.
On Wednesday, the Tadeyeskes were busy making sure their equipment is ready to go for the influx of winter weather.
“From 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., we’ll be out there helping as many people as we can,” Paul Tadeyeske said.
The couple said some typical culprits the encounter are dead batteries, low tire pressure and locked doors.
“It’s going to be a lot of jump starts,” Paul Tadeyeske explained. “Tires lose air when it’s cold, and a lot of people accidentally lock their keys in their car while it’s warming up.”
Paul Tadeyeske warned that some winter car troubles can be avoided with a little preparation.
“In winter, you need good tread,” he said. “When you see a car smashed, you look at the tires, and you see why it happened.”
Throughout the next few cold months, the Tadeyeskes recommend regularly checking your car’s battery — especially if it’s more than 3-years-old — along with tires, coolant, windshield washer fluid and oil levels.
They also encouraged drivers to slow down and move over for roadside crews and first responders.
“Just a few days ago, some sheriff’s deputies were hit on the freeway,” Paul Tadeyeske said. “It’s important to give emergency vehicles space.”
As they gear up for a busy winter season, the Tadeyeskes are savoring their last few hours of downtime.
“We are hoping to help a lot of people tomorrow if they need it,” Donna Tadeyeske said.
The Tadeyeskes represent just two of the thousands of people across Wisconsin who make a living out of helping drivers in tough conditions. They said they’re always here to help.