Tow Service and Accident Recovery
When a tow is covered after an accident, how to coordinate with carriers, and what your policy includes for accident scene recovery.
Tow after a breakdown vs. tow after an accident
These are handled differently by insurance:
- Breakdown tow — covered under your roadside assistance benefit (if you have it). Does not count as a property claim.
- Post-accident tow — covered under your collision or comprehensive coverage as part of the accident claim. This goes on your claims record.
At the accident scene: first priorities
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1
Check for injuries — call 911 if needed
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2
Move vehicles out of traffic if safe to do so
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3
Exchange insurance info — do not discuss fault
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4
Photograph the scene, all vehicles, and any injuries before moving anything
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5
Get a police report number
Who to call for the tow
If the police are on scene, they may dispatch their preferred tow company. You can accept or decline — you have the right to use your own carrier's preferred tow service. Police-dispatched tows can sometimes be more expensive and may charge storage fees quickly.
Call your carrier's claims line and ask them to arrange the tow. This ensures the tow is coordinated with your claim and routed to an approved shop if needed.
Rental car after an accident
Rental reimbursement is another optional coverage that many people don't know they have. Check your dec page for "Rental Reimbursement" or "Transportation Expense." If the other driver is at fault, their liability coverage should cover your rental directly.