Dealing with Tow Yards after a Car Accident
When a serious car accident occurs, a person’s vehicle is likely to become disabled, or unsafe to drive. It is often necessary to tow a vehicle to a tow yard where it can be assessed for damages. Many car accident victims are unsure of where to have a vehicle towed, what it will cost, and who is responsible for these costs.
Here, car accident attorneys at Chanfrau & Chanfrau provide drivers in the Daytona Beach, FL, and Palm Coast, FL, area with answers to frequently asked questions regarding tow yards and car accidents, so that they are prepared for how to handle towing should they be involved in a car accident.
Who Should I Call to Tow My Vehicle?
If a car accident is severe and drivers are injured, they may not have a choice in who tows their vehicle. When a driver leaves the scene of an accident in an ambulance, a responding police officer will contact a tow yard and have the vehicle moved to a salvage yard.
If drivers are not significantly injured in an accident, they have the right to choose who tows their vehicle. If drivers are not familiar with any particular towing company, they should call their car insurance company to get a recommendation. This is especially beneficial if they have coverage that will pay for the towing costs.
Where Should I Have My Vehicle Towed?
When a vehicle is damaged in an accident, towing companies typically deliver it to a salvage yard, especially if the vehicle’s owner is not at the scene of the accident when they pick up the car. Salvage yards basically store the vehicle while it is assessed for damages. If the car cannot be driven, it may need to be towed again at a later date and brought to a mechanic.
If at all possible, drivers should request that their vehicle be towed directly to a mechanic, which should save a significant amount of money. Drivers can deliver their vehicle to a mechanic that they have worked with in the past, one that specializes in their type of vehicle, or one recommended by their insurance company.
What Will the Towing Cost?
Towing costs vary based on the towing company and the distance traveled. Unfortunately, towing fees tend to be costly. It usually costs hundreds of dollars to have a vehicle towed. If a vehicle needs to be stored at a tow yard or salvage yard, and if the vehicle needs to be towed a second time, costs could easily exceed $1,000.
Who Is Responsible for Towing and Storage Fees?
Responsibility for towing and storage fees will depend on who is liable for the accident. If the vehicle owner is at-fault for the accident, they will be accountable for towing and storage costs. Depending on insurance coverage, these costs may be paid by the driver’s insurance coverage, but any applicable deductible will be owed first.
If another driver is found at-fault for the accident, they will be liable for accident damages, including towing and storage costs. Unfortunately, liability is not often determined right away, so drivers usually have to pay for towing out-of-pocket and then seek compensation later. We advise our Daytona Beach clients to keep all receipts and paperwork regarding towing and storage fees, so that it can be used as evidence.
Get In Touch
If you have been injured in a car accident and have questions about your right to financial compensation for accident damages (including tow fees), our attorneys would be happy to meet with you. To discuss the details of your accident, send us a message online or call (386) 258-7313 to schedule a consultation.