What happens to a car after it’s towed following an accident?
Let’s say there’s been a collision, and both vehicles are towed away. What should the at-fault party do about their vehicle at the towing yard?
I’ve spoken with insurance agents who mentioned that the cars need to stay at the towing company until an investigation is complete so an adjuster can evaluate the damages.
However, I’ve come across information that suggests vehicles often need to be retrieved due to accumulating storage fees early in the process. If the person not at fault must pay to get their car back, how can they be certain they’ll be reimbursed later?
Do insurance companies typically inform claimants that they cover storage and related fees only up to a certain period or limit?
After a car accident, once the vehicles are towed away, the next steps can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the policies of the insurance companies involved. Here’s a general overview of what a person who’s not at fault might consider doing regarding their car at the towing company:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. They can provide guidance specific to your policy and advise you on how to proceed.
Check State Laws and Regulations: Each state has different laws regarding towing and storage fees. Familiarize yourself with these to understand your rights and obligations regarding the storage of your vehicle.
Investigate Storage Fees: It’s common for towing companies to charge storage fees after a certain period. Contact the towing company to find out what their storage policies are and how much it will cost to retrieve your vehicle.
Ask About the Claims Process: Your insurance agent should inform you about the claims process, including whether you can pay the towing fees upfront and seek reimbursement later. Many insurers will cover towing and storage fees, but policies vary, and there may be limits.
Document Everything: Keep records of all communications with both your insurance company and the towing company. Take photos of the vehicle’s condition and gather any relevant documents regarding the accident.
Consider the Adjuster’s Timeline: While it’s typical for an adjuster to assess the damages at the towing company, the timeline can vary. If the towing fees are accumulating quickly, you may have to make a decision about whether to retrieve your vehicle.
Discuss Options with Your Insurance: If you’re facing significant storage fees, speak with your insurance adjuster about possible solutions. Sometimes they may provide guidance on getting your vehicle released while the claim is being processed.
Be Aware of Coverage Limits: Insurance companies often have specific limits on storage and towing fees. Make sure you understand these limits so you know what to expect in terms of reimbursement.
In summary, you may need to retrieve your vehicle from the towing company to avoid storage fees, but it’s essential to communicate closely with your insurance company about the best steps to take. They should inform you about what expenses will be covered and any necessary actions required on your part to ensure you’re reimbursed.