Towing And Auto Insurance Claims

Whether you can submit an auto insurance claim for towing depends on your insurance company and the type of policy you have. Most insurance companies will only cover towing costs if you have roadside assistance coverage added to your policy. This is usually an optional, additional coverage that you can purchase for a small fee. Without roadside assistance, your insurance policy will most likely not cover towing, unless it is related to an accident caused by another driver, in which case their insurance should cover the towing expenses.

Towing and labour insurance

Whether your auto insurance covers towing depends on your insurer and policy. Some insurance companies may cover towing if you're involved in an accident, even if you don't have roadside assistance coverage. If you were involved in an accident caused by another driver, the cost of towing your vehicle may be covered under the at-fault driver's liability coverage. However, if you're found to be at fault for the accident, you may be responsible for towing expenses, depending on your coverage.

To add towing coverage, you must first have comprehensive coverage on your policy. Optional labour coverage covers the cost of repair at the site of your breakdown, including delivery and installation of parts, but not the cost of the parts.

Towing reimbursement is limited based on your individual policy. Be sure to speak to an agent to understand the reimbursement amounts, the number of claims allowed per year, and the impact of longer-distance tows.

Roadside assistance

If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, your policy may already include roadside assistance, but it's always good to check with your insurer to confirm. If you don't already have it, you can usually easily add it to your policy.

• Tire Change: If you're uncomfortable changing a tire yourself or don't have the tools to do it, roadside assistance will send a technician to change your flat tire with a spare or fix the leak.
• Dead Battery: If your battery dies or needs to be replaced, a technician will come to jump-start your car or replace the battery.
• Refueling: If you run out of gas and can't get to a gas station, roadside assistance will deliver fuel straight to your vehicle.
• Locksmith Services: If you lock yourself out of your car, lose your keys, or accidentally lock your keys inside, roadside assistance will send a locksmith to help you get back into your car. Some companies may charge extra for this service.
• Towing: If your car can't be fixed on the spot, roadside assistance will cover towing up to a certain limit. After you've reached the mileage limit, you'll need to pay out of pocket.

It's important to note that the specific services covered by roadside assistance may vary depending on your insurance carrier. Additionally, some providers offer multiple tiers of roadside assistance coverage, with different mileage limits for towing.

When it comes to filing a claim for roadside assistance, it's typically a simple and easy process. You can usually use your provider's app or give them a call to receive assistance right away.

Collision coverage

When it comes to towing, collision coverage typically includes towing expenses if your vehicle is involved in a collision and needs to be towed to a repair shop or storage facility. This means that if your car is not drivable after an accident, your collision coverage will take care of the towing charges. The towing expenses are usually reimbursed, and they count towards your deductible. In some cases, the repair shop might tow the car from the accident scene without immediate charge, and the towing cost is added to the total repair bill.

It's important to note that collision coverage may have certain limitations or exclusions. For example, there might be a maximum distance for which towing is covered, or there could be specific circumstances under which towing is not included. It's always a good idea to carefully review your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider to understand the specifics of your collision coverage, including any limitations on towing services.

Additionally, collision coverage usually comes with an out-of-pocket deductible that you need to meet before the coverage takes effect. This deductible amount can vary, so it's essential to be aware of the financial responsibility you would have in the event of a collision.

In summary, collision coverage plays a crucial role in protecting you financially in case of a collision or accident. While it typically includes towing services, the specifics can vary, so reviewing your policy or consulting your insurance provider is essential to understanding the extent of your coverage.

Comprehensive coverage

Whether your auto insurance covers towing depends on your insurer and policy. Most insurance companies won't cover towing due to a mechanical issue unless you have roadside assistance coverage added to your policy. However, some insurance companies may cover towing if you're involved in an accident, even if you don't have roadside assistance coverage.

Roadside assistance coverage can pay for a tow, up to a certain distance specified in your policy, if your vehicle is disabled. Your insurer might also cover the cost of towing if your vehicle is involved in a collision and you're unable to drive it. Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance as an optional coverage on your auto insurance policy.

If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, your policy may already include roadside assistance, but it's important to confirm this with your insurer. Comprehensive coverage insures against damage from weather events, vandalism, and other incidents. Collision coverage, on the other hand, covers damage from accidents, regardless of who was at fault. Both types of coverage typically require you to meet an out-of-pocket deductible before the coverage takes effect.

You can add roadside assistance to your policy for a small fee, usually around $5 to $15 per car. This optional coverage provides towing services, flat tire changes, and locksmith assistance if you're stranded on the road. Some providers offer multiple tiers of roadside assistance coverage, with varying distances for towing included.

In summary, while comprehensive coverage is important for insuring your vehicle against various incidents, adding roadside assistance to your policy can provide valuable peace of mind and ensure you're covered in the event of a breakdown or collision.

Liability coverage

If you are involved in an accident caused by another driver, the cost of towing your vehicle will likely be covered under the at-fault driver's liability coverage. Their liability insurance should cover the damage caused by their vehicle, including the cost of towing your car to the repair shop. However, if you are found to be at fault for the accident, you may be responsible for the towing expenses, depending on your insurance coverage.

It is important to note that liability coverage only applies if you are deemed at fault for the accident. If you are not at fault, the other driver's liability coverage should cover your towing expenses. Additionally, liability coverage typically does not cover mechanical issues or breakdowns that are not the result of an accident. In such cases, you would need roadside assistance coverage to have your towing expenses covered.

The extent of liability coverage can vary depending on your insurance provider and policy details. It is always a good idea to carefully review your policy to understand the specific inclusions and exclusions of your liability coverage. This will help you determine if you need to purchase additional coverage, such as roadside assistance, to ensure you are adequately protected in the event of an accident or vehicle breakdown.

Frequently asked questions