Before calling for a tow truck, know your options and coverage. Does your insurance company cover towing? If they do, do they recommend certain companies—or even require you to use certain companies to get reimbursed? If towing is not part of standard coverage, can you purchase an add-on? Do you belong to a service organization or other motor club that offers discounts for certain companies? Make sure you check out your options and requirements before you find yourself in a bind.

 

If you do find yourself needing a tow in an emergency situation, don’t panic – and don’t jump at the first option without taking a breath and thinking about a few things. There are considerations to keep in mind to make the best tow truck choice.

 

• Pay attention to whether or not the tow truck company offers 24-hour towing – and whether or not you need emergency services. 24 hour service can come with a premium price, so make sure if you don’t need it in the middle of the night, you’re not paying for it.
• Be clear with the company about what you need, and make sure you get details on pricing before requesting a tow truck. You should ask about any minimum fees, a hookup fee, and per-mile fees. You should also ask if there are fees associated with how long you leave your car with the towing company once it’s towed.
• Be very clear about where your vehicle will go after it is towed. Will it go to an actual service center where it will be fixed? Or is the towing company taking it to its own lot, where you have to figure out the next step? Get all the details upfront so there are no surprises.
• Always check online reviews for a towing company before you hire them. Search for the company on BBB.org. Pay attention to things like complaints about damage to cars while being towed or difficulty getting access to your car after it’s towed. You also want to know if there are issues with hidden costs that aren’t obvious from the start.

 

Always do business with companies that adhere to BBB's Accreditation Standards and our Standards for Trust. 

 

For more information

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