Posted in
On May 6, 2025
If your car is towed after an accident, this is typically an indication that the damage is extensive, and you may have a right to seek compensation for all costs associated with the accident, including towing fees and alternative transportation. Follow these steps to safeguard your rights.
Ask the Other Driver for Their Information
Because you might be seeking reimbursement for tow expenses, it’s essential you get the other driver’s information at the scene of the accident before they leave and you lose your opportunity to request this information. Ask the other driver for their name, contact details, and insurance information.
Document the Accident Scene
Before the tow truck arrives, take pictures of all damage to it and all other vehicles involved in the accident. Photograph debris and skid marks in the roadway. This valuable evidence can help preserve the details of the accident before the vehicles are moved.
Find a Reputable Body Repair Shop
Try to locate a body repair shop so that you know where to ask the tow truck where to take your vehicle. This could be a body shop you’ve used in the past and trust or somewhere the insurance company has recommended. Taking this step can prevent your vehicle from being impounded and incurring additional fees.
Call a Reputable Towing Service
If police allow you to coordinate the tow, you can call a towing service of your choice. If you have towing service as part of your auto insurance coverage, the insurance company may provide a free tow up to a certain number of miles. If you don’t have tow service as part of your policy, you could decide which company to use based on reviews or previous experience.
Towing scams do exist. Two common signs are if the towing service asks for your credit card number over the phone or a towing truck that stops at the accident scene without being called first.
Know Maximum Fees
To avoid being overcharged, you should know the maximum fees you might be facing. Under Oklahoma law, the maximum price of a tow for most vehicles is $81.25 for the hookup, plus $75 per hour or $3.75 per mile for a tow within 25 miles. For example, if the two took one hour and was ten miles away, the maximum charge would be $156.25. Additional fuel surcharges and other fees could apply if additional services are needed or the vehicle weighs more than a standard vehicle.
The maximum daily storage fee is $18 for outdoor storage or $30 for indoor storage. Larger vehicles could incur higher charges.
Talk to the Tow Truck Driver
If possible, talk to the tow truck driver to confirm where the vehicle is going, how much the tow will cost, and any other details you need to know based on the circumstances.
Keep Receipts
Keep all receipts for costs you paid because of the accident, including tow charges, storage fees, and car rental expenses.
Call Our Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyers for Help
Dealing with insurance and towing companies is only the beginning of the complicated process of recovering compensation after a car accident. Oklahoma Injury Law can help with every aspect of your claim. Contact us or call us at (405) 310-8800 for a free consultation.