Does Car Insurance Cover Towing? Here’s the Truth

We’ve all been there. You’re driving home after a long day. Maybe you’re just a few blocks away or on a lonely road late at night. Then it happens—your car breaks down. A flat tire, dead battery, or that mysterious check engine light turns into something real. Now you’re stuck. So what’s next?

You might wonder, “Does car insurance cover towing?” It’s a fair question, especially when you’re already stressed and unsure about what to do.

In this guide, we’ll walk through this topic in a way that feels like we’re just having a real talk over coffee. We’ll cover everything you need to know about car insurance and towing coverage, with real-life context, straight-up answers, and a few useful tips that could save you a lot of money and frustration later.

The Reality of Towing – It Can Happen to Anyone

A friend of mine, Sarah, was headed to her mom’s place one weekend. Middle of the highway, her engine suddenly died. Panic kicked in. She didn’t know what to do. She had car insurance, of course—but she had no clue whether towing was covered. She called the insurance company, only to find out she didn’t have roadside assistance coverage. That tow cost her $175 out of pocket.

That’s why this topic matters.

Does Car Insurance Cover Towing by Default?

Let’s get this straight right away:

Standard car insurance does not always cover towing.

Yep, that’s the truth. Unless you’ve added roadside assistance or towing coverage to your plan, your insurer probably won’t foot the bill.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Most basic policies cover damage or liability—but not the cost of getting your car to a mechanic. That’s a whole different ballgame.

What Is Roadside Assistance in Car Insurance?

So if the standard policy doesn’t cut it, what do you need?

Roadside assistance, also called towing and labor coverage, is typically an add-on you can purchase for a few extra bucks per month.

Here’s what roadside assistance coverage usually includes:

• Towing services (within a mileage limit)

• Jump-starts for dead batteries

• Flat tire changes

• Lockout help

• ⛽ Fuel delivery (you still pay for fuel)

• ️ Winching services (if you’re stuck in mud or snow)

This kind of support can be a lifesaver—especially if you travel often, drive an older car, or just want peace of mind.

How Much Does Towing Usually Cost Without Insurance?

Let’s say you don’t have towing coverage. How bad could it be?

Here’s a simple cost estimate:

Even a short tow can cost you more than a year of roadside assistance. That’s why many drivers choose to add it, just in case.

What Types of Car Insurance May Include Towing?

Let’s break this down in more detail.

1. Liability-Only Insurance

This is the minimum legal requirement in most states. It does not cover towing. Its only job is to pay for the other person’s damage in a crash. If your car breaks down, you’re on your own.

2. Collision Coverage

This covers your vehicle if you hit something, like another car or pole. It may reimburse towing costs if your car is undrivable after a covered accident—but not if it just breaks down.

3. Comprehensive Coverage

This helps cover damage from things like theft, floods, fire, or fallen trees. Like collision, towing might be covered after a damage event—but not for regular breakdowns.

4. Full Coverage (Combo of Collision + Comprehensive)

Still no towing by default—unless it’s related to a covered incident. Again, if you want regular towing help, add roadside assistance.

How to Check If Your Policy Covers Towing

If you’re unsure whether your policy includes towing, here’s what you can do:

• Look at your policy documents – Find sections like “Roadside Assistance,” “Towing,” or “Emergency Services.”

• ☎️ Call your insurance agent – They’ll confirm whether you’re covered and how far they’ll tow you.

• Check the insurer’s app or website – Some companies let you request a tow directly from your phone.

• ✍️ Add it if you don’t have it – It’s often super affordable (as little as $5–$15/month).

Pro tip: Some policies limit how far they’ll tow you (e.g., 15 or 25 miles). Beyond that, you might have to pay the difference.

Towing Coverage Through Membership Services

Not all towing help comes from insurance. Think of clubs like AAA (American Automobile Association). These companies offer roadside help whether or not you file a claim.

AAA (or similar auto clubs) Benefits:

• ✔️ Up to 200 miles of free towing (based on membership level)

• ✔️ 24/7 service

• ✔️ No effect on your car insurance premium

• ✔️ Coverage applies to you, not just one car

This can be a great option if you don’t want to add anything to your insurance or want broader coverage.

What If You’re in an Accident?

This is where it gets a little more nuanced.

If you’re in a covered accident and your car is too damaged to drive, towing is typically covered under your collision coverage.

However, if the accident is your fault and you only have liability insurance, then no dice—you’ll pay for towing yourself.

So yes, towing can be covered after an accident, but only if your policy includes the right protections.

How to Get the Best Towing Coverage for Your Needs

Okay, you’re convinced that towing coverage is a good idea. Now what?

Getting the right towing coverage isn’t just about adding it blindly. It’s about matching your driving habits, lifestyle, and car condition with the best options available.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help:

1. Review Your Driving Habits

Ask yourself:

• Do you mostly drive in the city or go on long road trips?

• Do you often drive alone, especially late at night?

• Do you live in a rural area or somewhere with harsh weather?

If yes to any of these, robust towing coverage is essential.

2. Compare What Insurers Offer

Not all roadside plans are the same. Some insurers offer:

• Free towing up to 15 miles, then $5 per mile after.

• Others might offer up to 100 miles at no extra charge.
  Make sure you’re not under-covered.

3. Read the Fine Print

Look out for:

• Limits on the number of calls per year (e.g., 3–5 service calls)

• Extra charges for night-time, weekends, or certain locations

• What’s not covered, like towing for unregistered cars

4. Consider Standalone Providers

If your insurer’s plan is limited, companies like:

• AAA

• Better World Club

• Allstate Motor Club

• AARP Roadside

offer memberships that can enhance or replace towing in your insurance.

5. Factor in Cost vs. Risk

Paying $60–$100 per year could save you from a $200 towing bill at the worst moment. That’s a worthwhile trade-off.

Towing Services Around the World: A Quick Look

Let’s take a brief look at how towing coverage varies internationally.

No matter where you are, towing is rarely included by default, and you’ll want to check local providers or auto clubs for the best deal.

Common Mistakes People Make with Towing Coverage

Even smart drivers can miss the mark. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make:

• Assuming you’re automatically covered just because you have full insurance

• Not checking towing distance limits

• Forgetting to renew AAA or roadside memberships

• Relying only on credit card perks without reading the terms

• Skipping coverage just to save a few dollars

Avoiding these can save you a lot of stress and unexpected costs.

Real Voices: Why Towing Coverage Matters

Let’s hear from some real drivers:

“My battery died in a mall parking lot during a snowstorm. My insurance’s roadside assistance got there in 20 minutes and towed me for free. Total relief.” – Jenna T., Chicago

“I didn’t realize my policy didn’t include towing until I needed it. Paid $220 for a 30-mile tow. Never again.” – Omar R., Texas

These kinds of stories are all too common. And they remind us how a small policy add-on can make a big difference in a real emergency.

❓ FAQs About Car Insurance and Towing Coverage

Let’s tackle some frequently asked questions to clear up confusion.

1. Does car insurance cover towing after an accident?

✅ Yes, if you have collision or comprehensive coverage. It usually covers towing your car to a repair shop.

2. Is roadside assistance the same as towing coverage?

Not quite. Towing is one part of roadside assistance. Roadside help usually includes other services like jump-starts, tire changes, and lockouts.

3. How much does roadside assistance cost?

Usually between $5–$15 per month if added to your policy. Memberships (like AAA) may cost $60–$120 per year.

4. Does full coverage include towing?

❌ Not by default. “Full coverage” just means collision + comprehensive. You must add towing separately or buy roadside assistance.

5. Can I get reimbursed for a tow if I forgot I had coverage?

Sometimes, yes. If you had the coverage when you needed the tow, some insurers allow reimbursement with a valid receipt—call and ask!

6. Will using towing raise my insurance rates?

Usually not. Most towing or roadside calls don’t count as claims and don’t raise premiums.

7. Can someone else use my roadside assistance?

‍‍ It depends. If your coverage is attached to the vehicle, only that car is covered. If it’s tied to you, like with AAA, you’re covered in any car.

8. Can I choose where my car is towed?

Most policies let you choose a location within the mileage limit. After that, extra distance may cost extra.

Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind on the Road

So, does car insurance cover towing? The honest answer is: only if you plan ahead.

Adding roadside assistance or a towing package is one of those small decisions that can save you big headaches later. It’s like carrying an umbrella—not because it’s raining now, but because it might.

Whether you’re running errands, going on a road trip, or commuting daily, having towing coverage gives you the peace of mind that no matter what happens, you won’t be stuck and stranded.

So go ahead—check your policy, make the call, and add the protection you need. Future-you will thank present-you later.