Hook and chain tow trucks are a type of towing vehicle designed to lift and transport disabled or illegally parked vehicles. They use a hook and chain system to secure the vehicle, allowing the tow truck to pull it onto the flatbed or lift it off the ground. This method is effective for towing cars that are not heavily damaged. These trucks are commonly used by tow truck companies and law enforcement agencies. While they are efficient for certain towing situations, they can potentially cause damage to the vehicle being towed, making them less popular than other towing methods like flatbed trucks.