Accident Towing Cost in United States

Understanding Accident Towing Costs: Key Considerations Before Towing Your Car

Flatbed Tow Truck

Flatbed tow trucks feature a large, flat plank and a pulley driven by a hydraulic system. When a vehicle needs towing, the pulley connects to the vehicle while the plank tilts down, creating a ramp for the vehicle to roll onto. As the vehicle ascends the ramp, the plank levels out. Once flat, the tow truck driver secures the frame and vehicle's tires to the flatbed.

Flatbed trucks cost $200 - $500 depending on the accident situation.

Wrecker Truck

Wrecker trucks are equipped with a hydraulic system and a towing mechanism typically bmounted on the rear. When a vehicle requires towing, the towing apparatus extends outward and attaches to the vehicle. The hydraulic system then lifts the vehicle off the ground, allowing it to be towed. As the vehicle is lifted, the wrecker truck driver secures the frame and tires of the vehicle for safe transport.

Wrecker trucks are most commonly used for vehicle recovery and range from $200-$500.

How Accident Towing Costs are determined
Type of Vehicle:	For Large or Heavy duty vehicles, expect your tow to cost 21-27% more than the average.
Type of Equipment:	If the vehicle requires special equipment because it is in a parking garage, a wheel is missing or road clean up, expect to pay $50-100 more
Distance traveled:	For towing longer distances, expect to pay a base rate, plus $3-5 for each additional mile.
Time of Day:	During night hours, prepare for additional fees ranging from $5 - $150 more than the average.

• Type of Vehicle: The vehicle you drive significantly influences the towing expense. Heavier models of trucks and SUV’’s can affect the cost.
• Type of Tow: Whether your car has a mechanical issue or involved in an accident determines the complexity of the tow. Collisions may require road cleanup, non-standard hookups, and case-specific needs, potentially resulting in accrued storage fees if the car is totaled. Conversely, breakdowns or dead batteries usually entail simpler towing transactions.
• Distance: The distance to be towed impacts the cost, considering the additional fuel required for longer journeys. Moreover, traveling long distances isn't recommended for wheel lift tow trucks. For tows up to 100 miles, using a flatbed may be advisable to safeguard your vehicle's structure.
• Time of Day: Towing costs can vary based on the time of day due to supply-and demand dynamics. Tows during regular working hours generally incur lower expenses compared to those required in the middle of the night. Breakdowns occurring during off peak hours, such as 3 a.m., when fewer tow truck drivers are available, often result in higher overall costs.

Accident Towing Cost Per Mile

The national average cost of towing a car at $110, let's delve into how that expense breaks down per mile:

While we’ve established that the national average cost of towing a car is $110, let’s take a look at how that breaks down per mile:

MIles	Range	Average Cost
Up to 5	$85 - $135	$110
Up to 20	$135 - $275	$155
Up to 50	$215 - $405	$310
Up to 100	$415 - $595	$505

The average towing cost per mile is approximately $4.00, spanning from $3.50 at the lower end to as high as $7 per mile at the upper end. Additionally, fees are applied according to the distance traveled. Hence, if you require a local tow, the expense will be significantly lower compared to towing your vehicle halfway across the state.

The chart below shows after 20 miles, the cost of towing will increase based on mileage.

In addition to cost per mile, other fees that you may be liable for include a fee for using a winch to free your vehicle if you’re stuck in snow, mud or ditch. This cost ranges from $190-$300.

Reasons to Tow your Car after an accident

There are countless situation that may result in your vehicle needing a towing service after an accident, but some of the most common reasons include:

• Vehicle Damaged
• Safety Concerns
• Preventing further damage to vehicle
• Vehicle blocking traffic
• Insurance requirements
• Preserving Evidence
• Peace of mind

Will insurance cover accident towing?

Full- Coverage auto insurance typically covers towing however, there is a limit on distance that you can tow the vehicle.

Reimbursement via Insurance Claim:

Some insurance companies cover towing costs through reimbursement, requiring you to pay upfront for tow-related expenses and subsequently file a claim for reimbursement. It's essential to note that many companies only reimburse up to 50%.

At-Fault Driver's Insurance Policy:

In the event of an accident where you lack roadside assistance in your coverage, the liability insurance of the at-fault driver may cover both your repairs and associated towing fees.
Insurance can cover your towing fees when you:

1. Have comprehensive coverage
2. Submit an insurance claim for reimbursement
3. Insurance of the at-fault driver (in a collision)

In summary

• Average Accident Towing Cost: Across the U.S. the average towing fee typically stands at $110, although this amount varies based on several factors.
• Towing Cost Variables: Your final towing bill depends on factors such as the type of vehicle you drive, the time of day, the distance traveled, if the vehicle needs to be winched out and the specific type of tow truck required for the job.
• Insurance Coverage: If you've enrolled in your carrier's roadside assistance program, towing expenses may be covered under your policy.
• Collision Tows: In the unfortunate event of a collision, the at-fault driver's liability insurance might cover the costs for your tow.

At some juncture, nearly every driver will likely require the services of a tow truck. However, you can prepare yourself for such situations by understanding the anticipated costs.
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