Car accidents are an everyday occurrence, which can leave your car damaged to the point of needing a tow truck. So, if you are involved in an accident, just who pays for the tow? The short answer is the insurance carrier of the individual at fault is usually responsible for the towing charges, as well as other accident-related costs including medical bills, transportation costs, lost wages from work, and more.
The expert attorneys at The Barnes Firm share the answers to some frequently asked towing questions which arise following an accident. But, first, remember, as an accident victim, always get medical attention first, after all your health and wellness should be your top priority.
The Cost of Towing
Immediately following your accident, medical attention comes first if you or others are injured.
- What if you need to be transported to the local Emergency Department for care? Your car will need to be towed.
- If you are not hurt, what if your car is severely damaged? It will need to be towed.
With your car being towed, either to the repair shop you specify or the salvage yard, you are left wondering how much towing cost. Towing can be expensive, and in most cases, you aren’t given the change to consent to the fees. Depending on where your car is towed if it is stored, and whether it needs to be moved again, costs can climb into the hundreds or even higher.
Who is Responsible for the Cost of Towing?
As mentioned, the insurance company of the at-fault driver is ultimately responsible for the cost of towing. Of course, determining fault can take some time. If the other driver is determined at fault, the driver or their insurance company will be liable for the cost of the tow. It’s important you contact an experienced car accident lawyer to only help you cover the tow expenses but to also get you the compensation you deserve for any injuries and damages.
Depending on your insurance coverage, your insurance company may pay for the tow after the accident, no matter who is deemed at fault. You’ll need collision coverage as part of your policy, and you’ll have to pay any deductible specified in your policy OR you’ll need additional towing and roadside assistance coverage on your policy. Towing and roadside assistance coverage adds an additional fee to your insurance but covers any circumstances, not just accidents, in which you might need a tow.
Keep in mind that some insurance companies pay the towing company directly, while others expect you to pay and be reimbursed. It all depends on your policy. You also should know that your insurance carrier, depending on your policy, may only cover towing costs they label as reasonable, thus leaving you responsible for any overage. The Barnes Firm car accident lawyers will handle contacting the at-fault driver’s insurance, while you recover from any injuries.
Call on The Barnes Firm
Following your accident, the expert team at The Barnes Firm is ready to help. At The Barnes Firm, you will find the best car accident lawyers who always put your needs first and strive to get you the compensation you deserve following your accident.
Call today for your FREE case evaluation with one of the Los Angeles car accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm: (800) 800-0000.
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Car Accident Lawyers California , Car Accident Tips , Tow Truck Expenses