Will Your Insurance Reimburse You for a Tow in Atlanta? A Guide from First Place Towing Service Atlanta
Car problems are never expected, and apart from calling a tow truck, one of the first questions that resonates through the mind is, “Will my insurance cover this?” A valid question at that, and at First Place Towing Service Atlanta, we want to help you understand how your insurance might factor into your towing needs.
The simple answer is: it depends. There are several factors at play, such as the type of coverage you have, why the vehicle was towed, and your policy’s specific terms. Let’s break it down.
The Different Types of Coverage That Might Help
1. Roadside Assistance Coverage:
This is your best friend when it comes to towing. Many insurance providers offer roadside assistance as an add-on to your policy or may even be included in a premium package. Coverage usually helps with things like:
Towing: In case of a breakdown, flat tire, or accident of your car, most roadside assistance programs will take care of towing expenses to the nearest qualified repair shop or any location you prefer within a covered mileage radius.
- Flat Tire Changes: If you have a spare, they will help you change it.
- Battery Jump-Starts: Dead battery? They’ll give you a boost.
- Fuel Delivery: If you run out of fuel, they can bring a few gallons your way to help you get to the nearest station.
- Lockout Services: Did you lock your keys in the car again? They can get you back in.
In most cases, if you have roadside assistance, calling a local towing company such as First Place Towing Service Atlanta and submitting the receipt to your insurer is usually a straightforward process for reimbursement, provided you stay within the limits of your policy.
2. Collision Coverage:
If your tow is due to an accident in which your vehicle hit another vehicle or any object, such as a tree or guardrail, it may be covered under your collision coverage. In this instance, the tow is considered part of a larger claim related to the damage of your vehicle. Generally, you will pay your deductible, and then your insurance company will pay the rest, including the tow.
3. Comprehensive Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your car that isn’t collision-related, like theft, vandalism, fire, or hitting an animal. If your car is unable to function after one of these incidents and needs to be towed, your comprehensive coverage might cover it. Again, your deductible will usually apply.
When Insurance Might Not Cover Your Tow
There may be circumstances in which your insurance will not reimburse you for towing services:
- No Relevant Coverage: If you only have liability insurance, which covers the damage to other vehicles or property in an accident you cause, then it typically won’t cover towing for a breakdown of your own vehicle or other issues unrelated to an accident.
- Mileage Exceeding Limits: Most roadside assistance has a certain mileage limit when it comes to towing. If your tow is considerably longer than the covered distance, you may be charged the difference.
- Towing for Routine Maintenance: Your insurance does not usually cover towing your car to a mechanic for routine maintenance or repairs that were not as a result of an unexpected breakdown or accident.
- Impoundment: If, because of parking violations, illegal parking, or other infractions, your car is towed by the police, these costs would not be covered by your insurance.
What to Do When You Need a Tow in Atlanta
- Safety First: If you are on the side of the road, make sure you and your passengers are in a safe location away from traffic.
- Reach out to First Place Towing Service Atlanta: Call us! We are ready 24/7 for fast, efficient, and affordable towing services throughout the Atlanta area. 3. Check Your Insurance Policy: Before or after calling for a tow, take a moment to review your insurance policy documents or call your insurance provider directly. Ask about your specific towing coverage, limits, and the claims process. 4. Keep Records: Always obtain a detailed receipt from the towing company. This will be necessary when you file your claim with your insurance company. In a nutshell, While having proper insurance coverage will surely ease the financial burden of a tow, don’t let uncertainty stop you from calling for help when you need it. First Place Towing Service Atlanta is always ready to help you. It’s a good idea to go over your insurance policy regularly to make sure you have the coverage that best fits your needs and gives you peace of mind on the road. Stay safe out there, Atlanta drivers! Call us at 404-914-0939