Is Towing Covered by Insurance?
Many drivers ask, “Does car insurance cover towing?” The answer depends on your insurance policy, the reason your vehicle needs a tow, and the level of cover you have.
Some policies include towing after an accident, while others only provide this benefit if you have roadside assistance or comprehensive cover. Knowing what your policy includes can help you avoid unexpected expenses when you need a tow truck.
In this guide, we’ll explain when towing is covered, what is excluded, and what you should do before requesting towing services.
Does Car Insurance Cover Towing?
Yes, car insurance may cover towing, but not every policy offers the same level of protection.
Most insurers cover towing when:
- Your vehicle is involved in an accident.
- Your car cannot be driven safely.
- Your policy includes towing benefits.
- You have comprehensive insurance with roadside assistance.
However, basic or third-party policies often do not cover towing unless you have purchased additional roadside assistance.
Always check your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to confirm your cover.
What Types of Insurance Cover Towing?
The level of towing cover depends on your insurance policy.
Comprehensive Car Insurance
Comprehensive insurance commonly includes towing after:
- Road accidents
- Fire damage
- Storm damage
- Theft recovery
- Vandalism
Many insurers pay to tow your vehicle to:
- An approved repairer
- Your preferred repair shop
- A secure storage facility
Coverage limits may apply.
Third Party Property Insurance
Third-party property insurance generally pays for damage you cause to another person’s vehicle or property.
In most cases, it does not cover towing your own vehicle.
Third Party Fire and Theft Insurance
Some policies include towing if your vehicle suffers damage from:
- Fire
- Theft
- Attempted theft
The cover varies between insurers.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is different from insurance.
It often includes towing if your vehicle breaks down because of:
- Flat battery
- Flat tyre
- Engine failure
- Mechanical problems
- Running out of fuel
Most providers limit the towing distance.
When Will Insurance Pay for a Tow Truck?
Insurance usually pays for a tow truck when:
- Your vehicle cannot be driven after an accident.
- Repairs cannot be completed on-site.
- Your insurer authorises the tow.
- The incident is covered under your policy.
Always contact your insurer before arranging a tow if possible.
When Is Towing Not Covered?
Insurance may not cover towing if:
- Your policy excludes towing.
- The breakdown is due to normal wear and tear.
- You arrange an unauthorised towing company.
- You exceed the towing distance limit.
- Your insurance claim is declined.
Reading your policy before an emergency can save both time and money.
How Much Does Towing Cost Without Insurance?
If insurance does not cover towing, you will need to pay the towing company directly.
Typical costs depend on factors such as:
- Distance travelled
- Vehicle size
- Time of day
- Accident recovery
- Special equipment required
Long-distance towing and heavy vehicle recovery generally cost more than standard local towing.
What Should You Do After an Accident?
If your vehicle cannot be driven:
- Move to a safe location if possible.
- Check for injuries.
- Contact emergency services if required.
- Notify your insurer.
- Arrange a licensed tow truck if instructed.
- Keep receipts and towing documents.
Following these steps can help make your insurance claim smoother.
How to Check If Your Insurance Covers Towing
The easiest way to confirm your towing cover is to:
- Read your insurance policy.
- Check your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
- Contact your insurer.
- Ask about towing limits and conditions.
- Confirm whether roadside assistance is included.
Knowing your cover before an emergency reduces stress.
Why Reliable Towing Services Matter
Even if your insurance pays for towing, choosing a dependable towing company remains important.
Quality towing services help:
- Protect your vehicle during transport.
- Reduce waiting times.
- Transport your vehicle safely.
- Support accident recovery.
- Minimise further vehicle damage.
Common Situations That Require Car Towing
A car towing service may be needed for:
- Vehicle accidents
- Engine failure
- Flat battery
- Transmission problems
- Overheating
- Vehicle recovery
- Unregistered vehicle transport
- Interstate vehicle transport
Conclusion
Understanding does car insurance cover towing helps you prepare for unexpected roadside situations. Every insurance policy is different, so always check your cover before you need assistance. Knowing what is included can save money, reduce stress, and help you make quicker decisions during an emergency.
Express Melbourne Towing provides prompt towing support, vehicle recovery, and dependable transport when customers need assistance across Melbourne.
FAQs
Does car insurance cover towing after an accident?
In many cases, yes. Comprehensive insurance often covers towing after an accident if the claim is accepted.
Which insurance policies include towing?
Comprehensive insurance is the most likely to include towing. Some roadside assistance memberships also provide towing benefits.
What if my car breaks down instead of being involved in an accident?
Insurance may not cover mechanical breakdowns unless your policy includes roadside assistance.
Does roadside assistance include towing?
Yes. Many roadside assistance plans include limited towing if your vehicle cannot be repaired on-site.
How far will insurance pay to tow my vehicle?
The towing distance depends on your insurer and policy. Some cover transport to the nearest repairer, while others have kilometre limits.
Can I choose my own tow truck?
Some insurers allow you to choose your preferred towing company, while others require an approved provider. Check your policy before arranging a tow.
Is towing covered under third-party insurance?
Usually not. Third-party insurance generally covers damage to other vehicles and property, not towing your own vehicle.
How can I find out if towing is included in my policy?
Read your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or contact your insurer to confirm your towing benefits and any limitations.
