When your car breaks down or gets involved in an accident, the first thought that crosses your mind is likely how to get it towed to safety. Towing services play a critical role in ensuring that your vehicle is moved to a repair shop or a safe location without causing further damage. But a common question that arises is, “Does car insurance also cover towing services?” This blog post will discuss the connection between towing companies and auto insurance, as well as what you need know to be ready to tow your automobile if necessary.
Types of Towing Services
Emergency Towing: This service is often required after an accident or a sudden breakdown. Emergency towing vehicles are dispatched quickly to move your car to a safe location.
Flatbed Towing: This involves placing your car on a flatbed truck, which is particularly useful for transporting luxury or high-performance vehicles without causing any damage.
Motorcycle Towing: Specialized towing vehicles are designed to transport motorcycles safely.
Long-Distance Towing: For cases where your vehicle needs to be moved across long distances, this service ensures your car reaches its destination without any issues.
Does Car Insurance Cover Towing Services?
The coverage of towing services by car insurance depends on the type of policy you hold. Here’s a closer look at different aspects of car insurance and how they relate to towing services:
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance is the most basic form of car insurance, often required by law. It covers damages to other people and their property if you’re at fault in an accident. However, liability insurance does not cover towing services for your own vehicle. If you only have liability insurance, you will need to pay for towing services out-of-pocket.
Comprehensive and Collision Insurance
Comprehensive and collision insurance provides more extensive coverage than liability insurance. Collision insurance covers damages to your car resulting from a collision, while comprehensive insurance covers non-collision-related incidents like theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. While these types of insurance do not automatically include towing services, many insurers offer roadside assistance as an optional add-on. This add-on can cover the cost of towing your vehicle.
Roadside Assistance Coverage
Roadside assistance is an optional coverage that can be added to your car insurance policy. Typically, it covers things like gasoline supply, lockout help, flat tire changes, towing, and battery jump starts. If you frequently travel long distances or drive an older vehicle prone to breakdowns, adding roadside assistance to your policy can be a wise decision. This coverage ensures that a towing vehicle is readily available to help you whenever you need it.
Full Coverage Insurance
Full coverage insurance generally combines liability, comprehensive, collision, and often includes roadside assistance. If you have full coverage, your policy likely covers towing services. However, it’s always best to review the specifics of your policy to understand the extent of your coverage.
Benefits of Adding Roadside Assistance for Towing Services
Peace of Mind
Knowing that you have towing services covered can provide peace of mind, especially during long trips. If your car breaks down, you won’t have to worry about the cost of a towing vehicle or finding a reliable towing service.
Cost Savings
While adding roadside assistance to your car insurance policy may increase your premium slightly, it can save you money in the long run. Towing services can be expensive, particularly for long-distance tows, and having insurance coverage can offset these costs.
Convenience
Roadside assistance often comes with 24/7 support, ensuring that you can get help at any time, day or night. This convenience is invaluable during emergencies.
Additional Services
Roadside assistance typically includes more than just towing services. You also get access to other helpful services, like battery jump-starts, flat tire changes, and lockout assistance, making it a comprehensive solution for various roadside issues.
How to Ensure Your Towing Services are Covered?
Review Your Policy
Carefully review your car insurance policy to understand what is covered. Look for details about roadside assistance and towing services. If your current policy does not include towing coverage, consider adding it.
Speak to Your Insurance Agent
Consult your insurance agent if you have any questions regarding your policy. They can provide detailed information and help you adjust your policy to include towing services if necessary.
Compare Policies
Not all insurance policies are created equal. Compare different policies and providers to find one that offers comprehensive roadside assistance, including towing services, at a reasonable price.
Conclusion
Towing services are a crucial component of vehicle safety and maintenance. Whether your car breaks down, gets involved in an accident, or encounters any other issue that renders it undrivable, having a towing vehicle readily available can make a significant difference. While basic liability insurance does not cover towing services, adding comprehensive, collision, or roadside assistance coverage to your policy can ensure you’re prepared for any situation. By understanding your insurance options and ensuring you have the necessary coverage, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that a towing service will be there to assist you whenever you need it.
FAQ
Does my car insurance policy cover towing services?
Many car insurance policies do offer towing coverage, but it depends on the specific terms of your policy. Check with your insurer to see if your plan includes roadside assistance or towing coverage.
What types of car insurance policies include towing services?
Towing services are often included in comprehensive and collision coverage policies. Some insurers also offer it as an add-on to basic liability coverage. Review your policy or ask your insurance provider for details.