Nobody plans for their car to break down, but when it happens, the last thing you want is to be stuck with an expensive towing bill. If you’re in Brooklyn and searching for a tow truck in Brooklyn, knowing whether your insurance covers towing can save you time, worry, and money.
The quick answer? It depends. Towing coverage depends on your insurance policy, the type of coverage you carry, and why your vehicle needs to be towed. If you wonder whether your insurance pays for towing in Brooklyn, read on.
Read this blog to learn more.
When Does Car Insurance Cover Towing?
Towing isn’t automatically included in every insurance policy. Here’s when it might be covered:
Roadside Assistance Add-On
Many insurers offer roadside assistance as an optional add-on, typically costing $5 to $15 per month. This coverage often includes:
- Towing (usually up to 15–50 miles)
- Jump-starts for dead batteries
- Flat tire changes
- Lockout assistance
- Fuel delivery if you run out of gas
If you frequently drive long distances or own an older car, adding roadside assistance can be a smart move.
Collision Coverage
If your car is damaged in an accident and can’t be driven, collision coverage may pay for towing to a repair shop. However, this usually doesn’t cover mechanical breakdowns or flat tires.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive insurance covers non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. If your car is stolen and recovered but undrivable, comprehensive coverage may include towing.
At-Fault vs. Not-At-Fault Accidents
If another driver causes an accident, their liability insurance should cover your towing costs. But if you’re at fault, you’ll need collision coverage or roadside assistance to avoid paying out of pocket.
When Is Towing NOT Covered?
Even with full coverage insurance, towing isn’t always included. Here are common scenarios where you might have to pay yourself:
- Mechanical breakdowns (unless you have roadside assistance)
- Running out of gas (unless included in roadside assistance)
- Getting stuck in mud, snow, or off-road (some policies exclude winching)
- Exceeding distance limits (many plans cap towing at 50 miles)
Always check your policy details or call your insurer to confirm what’s covered.
How Much Does Towing Cost Without Insurance?
If your insurance doesn’t cover towing, here’s what you might pay:
- Local tows (5–10 miles): $35–$125
- Longer distances (40 miles): $125–$275
- 100+ miles: Up to $600
Factors that increase costs:
- Time of day (nighttime or holiday tows cost more)
- Vehicle size (SUVs and trucks are pricier to tow)
- Special equipment needed (flatbed for luxury cars, winching for stuck vehicles)
If you’re in Brooklyn and need a tow truck in Brooklyn, calling a local provider like A1 Towing Brooklyn can help you.
How to Add Towing Coverage to Your Policy
If your current policy doesn’t include towing, here’s how to add it:
- Contact your insurer: Ask about roadside assistance or towing endorsements.
- Compare plans: Some policies offer unlimited tows, while others limit you to 3-4 per year.
- Check for overlaps: If you already have AAA or a similar service, you may not need duplicate coverage.
Roadside assistance is usually cheaper than paying for a single tow, making it a smart investment.
What to Do If You Need a Tow
- Check your coverage: Call your insurer or check your policy app.
- Use preferred providers: Some insurers have partnerships with towing companies for discounted rates.
- Get a receipt: If you pay upfront, keep the invoice for reimbursement.
- Know your rights: In New York, insurers can’t force you to use a specific towing company.
Be Prepared Before You Need Help | Call A1 Towing Brooklyn
Towing costs can add up fast, but the right insurance coverage can save you hundreds. If you’re in Brooklyn and ever need a tow truck in Brooklyn, knowing your policy details will help you avoid surprises. At A1 Towing Brooklyn, we’re here to help when you need us most.
Our team of trained professionals is available around the clock, providing fast, reliable, and damage-free towing across Brooklyn. We work with various insurance providers and roadside assistance programs, so we can help you understand your coverage and avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.
Key Takeaways:
- Roadside assistance is the best way to ensure towing coverage.
- Collision/comprehensive may cover accident-related tows.
- Always verify coverage before an emergency happens.
- Compare local towing rates if paying out of pocket.
Knowing your coverage options helps you stay prepared for any roadside emergency. Whether you’re using your insurance or need to call a trusted tow truck in Brooklyn, being informed puts you in the driver’s seat. Drive safe!
