Who pays for towing and storage after a car accident? When another driver has hit you and damaged your car, their insurance company is typically responsible for covering your towing and storage costs.
If you need support and representation in order to get the insurance company to pay, a Charlottesville car accident lawyer can help you get the resources you need.
Towing and Storing a Car After an Accident
Car accidents have the potential to cause significant vehicle damage when they occur. As a result, your car may be rendered un-drivable, and you may be required to have your car towed for repairs and/or investigative purposes. This can leave you without your vehicle for a period of time.
After an accident, your vehicle may be towed to a mechanic’s shop, a storage lot, or the police impound until investigations are complete. However, the costs of towing and storing your vehicle can quickly add up and become expensive. There are typically two options available for paying these expenses.
The driver at fault is typically responsible for paying for the towing and storage costs for your vehicle in the wake of a car accident. However, if they do not possess sufficient insurance coverage, the cost of towing and storage could be on you. If your auto insurance policy has collision coverage, then your insurance will pay these costs for you.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call 434-817-3100
What to Do Before Your Car is Towed After an Accident
Before your car is towed away from the scene of an accident, it is important to take a few important steps if possible. These actions can ensure you get the evidence you need before the car is moved. Some steps to take after a car accident and before having your car towed include:
- Get medical care: Whether or not your car is going to need to be towed, you should always get medical attention after a car accident. Medical professionals can treat any injuries and rule out more severe conditions. At the very least, make sure that there are no hidden injuries.
- File a police report: Request that a police report be filed so there is an official record of the accident, and request a copy once it is finalized. Towing your vehicle could disrupt evidence, so it is important to get the report filed before the car is removed from the scene.
- Gather evidence: It is also recommended to collect as much evidence of your own as you can. This includes photos and videos of the damage and surroundings, as well as witness statements, if possible.
- Exchange information: Exchange contact, vehicle, and insurance information with the other driver involved. You will need this information to file a claim with their insurance company for damages, towing, and storage costs.
- Contact the insurance company: After everything has been wrapped up at the site of the accident, you will need to notify your insurance about the accident and file an accident claim with the other driver’s insurance company. You should request compensation to cover the expense of towing and storage after a car accident.
- Hire a car accident lawyer: Hire a Virginia car accident attorney as soon as possible after an accident to help you navigate the logistics, expenses, and insurance company. They can also help ensure you are not left paying the towing bill. Don’t wait too long, however, as evidence and rights can be lost.
These actions can protect your claim and give you the best chance for financial relief. When you hire a lawyer to represent you, they can help streamline the process for you. They will help you get compensated for expenses sooner rather than later.
The Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
When you are injured and down a vehicle after an accident, you may be unsure what to do next in the claim process and if or when to get a lawyer for a car accident. However, hiring a lawyer can help reduce the stress and overwhelm you are dealing with. They can first verify whether or not you have a claim and also help you negotiate with insurance companies.
If the at-fault driver, their insurance company, or yours is making it difficult to get the costs of your towing and storage covered, then your car accident lawyer can speak to them on your behalf and force them to pay you what you deserve. They can also negotiate compensation for you for this and other costs.
Your lawyer is one of your biggest supporters and ensures your rights are protected. They will also make sure you are not being taken advantage of and not being forced to pay for expenses that are not yours to cover. They will fight for you every step of the way.
A Car Accident Lawyer Can Provide Comprehensive Representation
In addition to towing and storage after a car accident, your lawyer can also help you with the general filing process for an insurance or legal claim. They can help investigate and collect evidence that will be needed by insurance adjusters or for a personal injury claim. They can also ensure your claim is submitted before the two-year statute of limitations expires, as outlined in Virginia law § 8.01-243.
They can also help you secure damages in your case, not just towing and storage costs. They will calculate the total of all your losses, both financial and pain and suffering, to determine the amount of compensation you need to cover all your losses adequately. They will negotiate for the maximum settlement to get you the best outcome possible.
MartinWren, P.C. Helps You Recover
Martin Wren, P.C. helps you navigate the aftermath of your vehicle accident so you can quickly get back on your feet. When you are uncertain about what steps to take or are having problems getting the other driver’s insurance to cover your costs, a car accident lawyer from our team will advocate for you and get you results.
Learn more about our approach when you schedule a free consultation with our team today.
Call 434-817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
