Whether due to a flat tire, engine trouble, or some other unexpected issue, you may eventually need to tow your car to a repair facility. Before you dial the towing company's number, it's essential to understand the factors that contribute to the cost of transporting your vehicle. Although the national average cost for towing a car is $109, the cost of towing your vehicle may be impacted by various factors such as the service needed, the towing company used, and the make and model of your vehicle.
Towing expenses can also vary based on several key factors, such as night, weekend, or holiday services, and understanding these elements can help you make informed decisions when faced with an unexpected breakdown. In this article, we'll discuss the factors that impact the cost of towing a car, what you might pay for these services, and the cost of other circumstances in which you may need to have your car towed.
What factors influence the cost of towing a car?
Several factors can significantly influence the cost of towing a car, such as the type of tow truck required, the distance towed, and the price of any additional services. It’s essential to consider these when calling for tow services. Here’s an overview of common factors that impact towing costs:
Distance: The distance you need your car to be towed is one of the biggest determinants of cost for towing services. It affects the amount of gas required, and since tow trucks aren’t recommended for long-distance drives, increases the risk of damage to the tow truck. The average cost stays around $100 for towing services of 40 to 50 miles, and prices spike above 50 miles.
Type of Vehicle: The type of vehicle you have and its size also play a crucial role in determining the towing cost. Larger and heavier vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, may incur higher towing fees due to the additional equipment and resources required to tow them safely. Similarly, specialty vehicles, like luxury cars or classic automobiles, may also require higher towing costs due to the need for extra care and specialized handling during the towing process. A car that cannot be put into neutral can require different handling by a tow service as well.
Additional Services and Circumstances: Extra services or specific circumstances can also influence towing costs. Factors such as the time of day (night or weekend towing), holiday services, or emergency roadside assistance can result in additional charges on top of the base towing fee. Your vehicle may require special handling if it’s stuck in a precarious location or off-road, which can lead to increased towing expenses. If you’ve been in an accident and there is clean-up required along with the tow, this can also add to the expense.
How much does it cost to tow your vehicle if you get into an accident?
Your out-of-pocket cost for a tow truck might be different after a collision than with a vehicle breakdown. While most insurance companies won’t pay for towing services if you need a new transmission, you run out of gas, or your battery fails, some do offer optional roadside assistance policies. Auto insurance companies might also offer pay for towing services after a collision. Both of these options can help decrease the out-of-pocket expenses incurred with tow services, so it’s important to review your auto insurance coverage to understand what you can expect to pay.
SelectQuote Can Help You Save by Finding Auto Insurance
Investing in an auto insurance policy is one of many ways you can prepare for the unexpected expenses that come along with having a car, like towing services. At SelectQuote, we’ll make sure you’re protected on the road by helping you shop for coverage. In just minutes, our licensed insurance agents can help you compare rates from several of the nation’s most trusted carriers, making it easy for you to find a policy that fits your lifestyle and budget.
