When your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident, towing may become a necessity. However, whether your car insurance covers towing depends on the type of policy you have and the specific circumstances. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about towing coverage, including what’s typically covered, what’s not, and how you can ensure you’re fully protected.
What Types of Car Insurance Cover Towing?
The coverage for towing largely depends on the type of car insurance you hold. Here’s a breakdown of the most common policies:
1. Comprehensive Car Insurance
Comprehensive car insurance generally includes towing coverage if your vehicle is damaged in an accident or a covered event like fire or theft. However, the towing is usually limited to transporting your car to the nearest approved repairer or a safe location.
2. Third-Party Insurance
Third-party car insurance typically does not cover towing unless additional coverage is purchased. This type of policy only covers damages caused to other people’s vehicles or property, leaving you to bear the cost of towing your own car.
3. Roadside Assistance Add-On
For breakdowns (non-accident situations), you’ll likely need a roadside assistance plan. These plans are separate from your car insurance and cover services like towing, jump-starts, and fuel delivery when your car isn’t drivable.
What Is Typically Covered in Towing Insurance?
Here’s what’s commonly included when towing is covered under your car insurance policy:
- Towing After an Accident: Most comprehensive policies cover the cost of towing your vehicle from the accident site to a designated repairer or safe storage.
- Attached Trailers or Caravans: Some policies also cover towing for caravans or trailers attached to the insured vehicle at the time of the accident.
- Emergency Towing Costs: In certain situations, like a car being deemed un-drivable, insurers may cover towing costs to ensure public safety.
What’s Not Covered?
Even with comprehensive insurance, towing isn’t always covered in every situation. Here are a few exclusions to be aware of:
- Breakdowns: If your car breaks down due to mechanical failure, insurance typically doesn’t cover the towing costs unless you have a roadside assistance plan.
- Unapproved Towing Services: Using a towing service that isn’t approved by your insurer may lead to denied claims. Always check with your insurer before arranging towing.
- Towing Beyond Limits: Some policies have distance limits for towing, and costs beyond this limit may need to be paid out of pocket.
How Much Does Towing Cost Without Insurance?
Towing costs can vary significantly based on factors such as the distance, type of vehicle, and time of day. Here’s a rough estimate for towing in Australia:
- Short distances (under 20km): $80–$150
- Medium distances (20–50km): $150–$300
- Long distances (50+ km): $300+. View our Long-Distance towing service
These costs can add up quickly, making it essential to have appropriate insurance or a roadside assistance plan to avoid unexpected expenses.
Key Considerations for Towing Insurance
1. Check Your Policy Details
Always review your car insurance policy to understand what’s covered. Look for specific clauses about towing, distance limits, and exclusions.
2. Roadside Assistance Plans
If breakdown towing is important to you, consider adding a roadside assistance plan to your policy. Many plans are affordable and can save you significant costs in emergency situations.
3. Use Approved Towing Services
Ensure you use towing providers recommended by your insurer to avoid denied claims. Contact your insurer immediately after an accident to arrange for approved towing.
FAQs About Towing Coverage
Q: Does comprehensive insurance cover towing for breakdowns?
A: No, most comprehensive insurance policies only cover towing after accidents or insured events. For breakdowns, a roadside assistance plan is usually required.
Q: Are caravans or trailers covered when towing?
A: Some comprehensive policies cover attached trailers or caravans, but it’s best to confirm with your insurer.
Q: Can I arrange my own towing service after an accident?
A: While you can, using a towing provider not approved by your insurer may result in a denied claim. Always check with your insurer first.
Q: What happens if I don’t have towing coverage?
A: Without towing coverage, you’ll need to pay out of pocket. Costs can vary widely, so it’s best to be prepared with insurance or roadside assistance.
Q: What are some tips to avoid my car breaking down on the road?
A: Regular mechanic servicing can greatly reduce the probability of your car breaking down suddenly on the road. Don’t risk having to call a tow truck. Make sure you regularly get your car serviced by a qualified mechanic like Newcastle Mobile Mechanic.
Q: What should I do if my car breaks down on the road?
A: If your not sure what do do when your car breaks down on the road, don’t panic. Turn on your hazard lights and move to a safe location ASAP. Check out our other blog for more tips here.
Conclusion
Understanding whether your car insurance covers towing can save you from unexpected costs and frustration during emergencies. While comprehensive insurance often includes towing after accidents, breakdown towing typically requires a separate roadside assistance plan.
To ensure you’re fully protected, review your policy details, add necessary coverage, and always use approved towing providers. If you’re ever in need of professional towing services in Parramatta, contact us for reliable and efficient assistance!
