Running out of gas or breaking down raises the immediate question of who pays for the tow. For many drivers, the first thought is their insurance policy. So, does car insurance cover towing? The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends entirely on the specific coverage you have purchased.
Understanding your policy’s details before you need help is crucial. This guide will explain the different ways towing coverage works, what to expect from your insurer, and how to ensure you’re not left with a surprise bill on top of a stressful situation.
Does Car Insurance Cover Towing
Standard auto insurance policies, like liability or collision coverage, do not include towing and labor costs. These coverages are designed for accidents and vehicle damage, not for mechanical failures or roadside emergencies. Towing is typically an add-on, known as roadside assistance coverage.
This optional coverage can be added to your policy for a relatively low cost. It’s designed specifically for incidents like breakdowns, flat tires, lockouts, and running out of fuel. The specifics, including limits and service providers, vary by insurance company.
What Is Roadside Assistance Coverage
Roadside assistance is an endorsement or rider you add to your car insurance policy. It provides a set of services for common vehicular problems that leave you stranded. Think of it as a safety net for non-accident related issues.
When you have this coverage and need a tow, you would call your insurance company’s designated helpline or use their mobile app. They then dispatch a contracted service provider to your location. The coverage usually pays the service provider directly, up to your policy’s limit, so you often pay little or nothing out-of-pocket at the scene.
Typical Services Included
- Towing to the nearest repair facility
- Jump-starts for a dead battery
- Flat tire changes (using your spare)
- Lockout service if your keys are inside the car
- Fuel delivery if you run out of gas
- Minor on-the-spot mechanical labor
When Towing Might Be Covered Under Other Parts Of Your Policy
There are rare scenarios where a standard coverage might pay for a tow. This usually happens when the tow is a direct result of a covered incident.
For example, if you have collision coverage and you are in an accident that disables your vehicle, the cost to tow it from the accident scene to a repair shop is generally covered under that collision claim. The tow is considered part of the loss from the accident.
Similarly, if a covered peril under your comprehensive coverage—like a tree falling on your car—makes it undrivable, the towing cost would likely be included. However, these are exceptions for specific, covered events, not for general mechanical failure.
Understanding Coverage Limits and Restrictions
Even with roadside assistance, you will encounter limits. Insurance companies set these to control costs and prevent abuse of the service. It’s vital to know your policy’s fine print.
The most common limit is a maximum dollar amount per service call or per year. For instance, your policy might cover up to $100 per tow and up to five service calls per policy period. Some policies have a combined annual limit, like $500 total for all roadside services.
Common Limitations To Watch For
- Distance Limits: Coverage may only pay for tows up to a certain distance, such as 10 or 15 miles. Any mileage beyond that is your responsibility.
- Service Call Limits: You might be limited to a set number of calls per year (e.g., 3-5).
- Vehicle Type: Coverage may not extend to recreational vehicles, large trucks, or motorcycles unless specifically added.
- Commercial Use: If your vehicle is used for business purposes like deliveries, coverage might be void.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Towing for a known, ongoing mechanical issue may not be covered.
What Usually Is Not Covered
Roadside assistance is for emergencies, not for convenience or planned events. Here are situations typically excluded:
- Towing for routine maintenance or repairs you scheduled in advance.
- Extrication or winching if you get stuck off-road or in a place requiring specialized recovery.
- Repeated service for the same unresolved problem.
- Towing to a repair shop of your choice that is farther than the nearest qualified facility.
How To Use Your Insurance for a Tow
If you’re stranded and believe you have coverage, follow these steps to get help efficiently and avoid complications.
- Locate Your Insurance Information: Have your policy number and the insurance company’s roadside assistance phone number ready. Many companies now offer service through their mobile app.
- Call the Designated Number: Do not just call a random tow company from a roadside sign. Contact your insurer first. They will verify your coverage and dispatch a pre-approved provider.
- Provide Clear Details: Explain your situation, your exact location (using cross streets or highway markers), your vehicle make and model, and the nature of the problem.
- Ask About Costs: Confirm with the operator that the service is covered and ask if there are any potential out-of-pocket fees, like an over-mileage charge.
- Get a Reference Number: Before hanging up, obtain a service request or claim number for your records.
What To Do If You Don’t Have Coverage
If you discover you don’t have roadside assistance on your policy, you still have options. Paying for a tow out-of-pocket can be expensive, often starting at $75 or more, plus per-mile charges.
First, check if you have other memberships. Many auto clubs (like AAA), new car warranties, or even credit card benefits include roadside assistance. Cell phone providers and motorist advocacy groups sometimes offer it as well.
If you must pay privately, get a price quote upfront. Ask for the base fee, the per-mile rate, and if there are extra charges for after-hours service. It’s also wise to ask for the destination’s address to confirm the total distance.
Comparing Insurance Towing to Other Options
Insurance-based roadside assistance is convenient, but it’s not the only choice. Comparing it to standalone services helps you decide what’s best for your needs.
Insurance Roadside Assistance Vs. AAA
AAA is one of the most well-known alternatives. Here’s a brief comparison:
- Cost: Insurance add-ons are often cheaper ($10-$30 per year). AAA membership has higher annual fees but includes more member benefits beyond towing.
- Service Limits: Both have limits, but AAA tiers often offer longer tow distances (e.g., 100+ miles with a premium plan). Insurance tows are usually shorter.
- Person-Centric vs. Car-Centric: AAA covers you as a person in any vehicle you’re driving. Insurance coverage typically follows the specific car(s) listed on your policy.
Pros And Cons Of Insurance Towing Coverage
Adding towing to your insurance policy has clear advantages and a few drawbacks.
Pros:
- Low cost and easy to add during policy renewal.
- Convenient billing; often no upfront payment required.
- Integrated with your existing insurer, so you only have one company to deal with.
Cons:
- Using it may be counted as a claim by some insurers, potentially affecting your rates.
- Coverage limits are often lower than dedicated club memberships.
- If you switch insurance companies, you lose the coverage.
Will a Towing Claim Raise Your Rates
This is a common and important concern. The industry practice varies. Many insurers treat roadside assistance calls as a separate service and do not count them as an “at-fault claim” that would trigger a rate increase.
However, it is not a universal rule. Some companies may review your frequency of use. If you make an excessive number of roadside calls in a short period, they might non-renew your policy or reassess your risk profile. Always ask your agent about your specific company’s policy regarding this.
For clarity, a tow resulting from a covered accident (using your collision coverage) is part of that claim. An at-fault accident claim will almost certainly affect your premiums, but the tow portion itself isn’t the cause; the accident is.
How To Add Towing Coverage to Your Policy
If you’ve decided to add this coverage, the process is straightforward. You can typically do it at any time, not just at renewal.
- Contact Your Agent or Company: Call your insurer or log into your online account.
- Request Roadside Assistance: Ask to add “roadside assistance coverage” or “towing and labor coverage” to your policy.
- Review the Terms: Ask about the cost, coverage limits (per-incident and annual), service radius, and any exclusions.
- Confirm the Change: Once added, you will receive an updated policy declaration page showing the new coverage. Keep this for your records.
The cost is usually minimal, often between $1 and $3 per month per vehicle. It is one of the most affordable ways to gain significant peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Full Coverage Insurance Include Towing?
No, “full coverage” (a common term for having both comprehensive and collision) does not automatically include towing. Towing and roadside assistance remain an optional add-on that must be specifically selected and paid for.
How Many Tows Does Insurance Cover Per Year?
This varies by policy. Common limits are 3 to 5 service calls per year, which includes all roadside services, not just tows. Exceeding this limit means you pay out-of-pocket for additional calls.
What Is The Difference Between Towing And Roadside Assistance?
Towing is the specific act of pulling your vehicle to a repair shop. Roadside assistance is a broader package that includes towing along with other services like jump-starts, tire changes, and lockout service. When you buy the coverage from an insurer, you are usually getting the full roadside assistance package.
Can I Get Towed To Any Repair Shop I Want?
Usually, coverage pays to tow your car to the nearest qualified repair facility. If you insist on a shop farther away, you will likely be responsible for the extra mileage costs beyond the policy’s allowed distance. Its always best to clarify this with the dispatcher.
Is Towing Covered If I Run Out Of Gas?
Yes, if you have roadside assistance coverage, fuel delivery (typically enough gas to get you to a station) is a standard included service, just like a tow for a breakdown.