Experiencing a car accident is a stressful and unsettling event, and it can become even more overwhelming when your vehicle gets towed away from the scene. Whether it’s due to severe damage or at the request of law enforcement, the sudden absence of your vehicle can leave you wondering what to do next. In such moments, it’s crucial to maintain a clear head and be aware of the necessary steps to take after your vehicle has been towed following an accident. In this article, we will guide you through the essential actions to ensure a smooth process, from locating your vehicle to finding a reliable wrecker service and locating the nearest repair shop. By understanding the proper course of action, you can regain control of the situation and navigate the post-accident aftermath with confidence.
Find an Auto Body Shop that You Can Have Your Vehicle Towed to If Possible
If you want to ensure a seamless transition after a car accident, it’s wise to have a plan for where to tow your vehicle. Ideally, this would be the auto body shop you know and trust – where you’ve had good experiences with repairs and customer service. But it’s important to follow those guidelines if you don’t have a preferred shop or the insurance company has already preapproved certain locations. Not only will towing to the right location save you time and energy, but it could also help with the repair process and ensure that everything goes smoothly.
Gather Contact Information from the Tow Truck Driver
After your car has been towed following an accident, it’s essential to gather contact information from the tow truck driver. This information can prove to be invaluable in the later stages of the process. Approach the tow truck driver politely and request their name, phone number, and the name of the towing company they represent. Additionally, ask for the tow truck’s license plate number and write it down along with the driver’s information. Having these details will facilitate communication and help you stay informed about the whereabouts of your vehicle. In the event of any issues or concerns that may arise later, having the tow truck driver’s contact information can resolve them efficiently.
Call Your Insurance Company
Getting into a car accident can be a jarring experience, and it’s understandable to feel uncertain about what to do next. Rest assured that your insurance agent is there to help you navigate this process. It’s important to let them know immediately that you were in an accident so they can give you timely advice and support. In addition, if you plan to speak with an attorney before taking any major steps, inform your insurance agent. This will allow them to provide you with the flexibility and space to partner with an experienced legal professional. If your vehicle was towed to a specific location, such as your mechanic’s shop, letting your agent know where it is can also be incredibly helpful. This enables them to contact the facility for repair estimates and helps them determine whether your vehicle needs to be repaired or replaced. Remember, your insurance agent is on your side, and they are there to support you every step of the way.
Do I Have to Pay for Towing After an Accident?
After a car crash, the last thing you want to worry about is the cost of towing and storage fees. Fortunately, many insurance policies include collision coverage that can cover these expenses. However, it’s important to read the policy terms carefully to ensure you comply with any limitations or exclusions. In the unfortunate event of an insurance company delay, documenting every attempt to communicate with them can help protect your wallet. And as always, consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer about your options is always a good idea. Remember, the answer to whether your insurance policy covers towing and storage fees depends on the actions you take and the terms of the policy.
How Do I Get My Vehicle Back After It Has Been Towed?
Recovering a vehicle after an accident can be a stressful experience, especially if you need clarification on where the vehicle has been towed. The first step to take is to identify the location of your vehicle. Ask an officer at the scene, if possible, where they towed your Vehicle or get in touch with the city. Once you know where your vehicle is, likely at an impound or storage lot, it’s important to call the facility and inquire about their open hours, towing fees, and the documents required to prove ownership. With the required documents and fees, your vehicle will be returned to you. However, if your vehicle was damaged in the accident, you may need to get it towed directly to an auto repair shop. A simple phone call can help you get back on track after an unforeseen accident.
What Do I Do If I Don’t Know Where My Vehicle Is After an Accident?
In the event of an accident, it’s important to know your rights and options when it comes to towing your vehicle. While the police have the authority to call a tow truck company if necessary, you have the right to choose your own company to tow your vehicle to the destination of your choosing, especially if you are not badly injured. However, in some cases, police may need to hire the closest towing company to unblock traffic and get cars moving again.
If your vehicle is towed and you do not know where it is, it will likely end up at one of the following places:
- Tow yard
- Impound lot or Storage Lot
- An Auto Repair Shop
It’s best to ask the police for the location of the facility they sent your vehicle to, especially if you are being taken to the hospital. If you can, it’s helpful to talk with the tow truck driver and obtain their contact information.
Call Elite Service Recovery & Heavy Duty Towing Recovery & Towing Immediately When Your Vehicle Needs Recovery
At Elite Service Recovery & Heavy Duty Towing, we understand that life can be unpredictable. One minute you’re cruising down the highway, and the next thing you know, you’re stranded on the side of the road after a car accident and can’t drive your car away. It’s a stressful situation that can happen to anyone, and that’s where we come in. Our team of professionals is ready to help you 24/7, seven days a week. We pride ourselves on our state-of-the-art equipment and years of experience. No matter the issue, we are confident we can handle it.
So the next time you find yourself in a tough spot, give us a call and let us take care of the rest.
The expert towing services we provide:
- Wrecker Service/ Recovery Towing
- Heavy Duty Towing Services
- Emergency Towing Services
- Roadside Assistance Services
- RV Towing
Visit our About Us page for more information about our towing company.
