What happens to a car after it’s been involved in an accident and towed away?
In a situation where two cars are involved in a collision and both are towed, what steps should the driver who wasn’t at fault take regarding their vehicle at the towing company? I’ve spoken to insurance agents who mentioned that the vehicles must stay with the towing company during the investigation, allowing an adjuster to assess the damages.
However, I’ve also seen comments suggesting that due to storage fees, cars may need to be retrieved from the towing service sooner rather than later. If this is the case, would the driver who wasn’t at fault have to pay to tow their vehicle out? If so, how can they ensure they’ll be reimbursed for those expenses later?
Do insurance companies typically inform claimants about their policies regarding storage fees and other costs, including any limits on coverage timelines and amounts?
After a car is towed from an accident scene, there are several steps the person not at fault should follow regarding their vehicle at the towing company. Here’s a general outline of what to do:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. They can guide you on the next steps and advise whether you need to take immediate action regarding towing fees.
Understand Towing and Storage Fees: Typically, towing companies charge storage fees after a certain period (often 24-48 hours) if the vehicle is not retrieved. It’s crucial to clarify with your insurance if they will cover these fees, as many policies do have limits or conditions concerning the length of time a car can remain at the towing company before incurring charges.
Assessing the Vehicle: In some cases, insurance adjusters need to inspect the vehicle for claims processing before it can be moved. Confirm with your insurer how long this process will take and whether the adjuster will come to the towing company.
Retrieve Your Vehicle: If the insurance company confirms that you can retrieve your car, you’ll have to pay the towing and storage fees upfront. Save all receipts, as your insurance may reimburse you either fully or partially for these costs.
Documentation for Reimbursement: After paying the towing and storage fees, keep detailed records, including receipts and any correspondence with your insurance. This documentation will be critical when you file a claim for reimbursement.
Communication with the Other Party’s Insurance: If the other driver is at fault, their insurance may also be responsible for covering your towing fees, so it’s wise to communicate with them as well. Document any interactions and keep a log of phone calls and email correspondence.
Claim Process: As you navigate the claim process, make sure to follow up on the status regularly to ensure that your claim for reimbursement of towing and storage fees is being processed.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your state’s laws regarding accident claims and towing practices to understand your rights and responsibilities.
In summary, it’s essential to communicate effectively with your insurance company about the specifics of your situation. Many insurers will clarify the process and what costs they will cover, including storage fees, to help you avoid any unexpected expenses.