bmreadytow – Ready Towing

Is Towing Covered By Insurance?

Car insurance is designed to protect you from the unexpected, whether it’s an accident, theft or damage to your vehicle. Understanding what’s included in your policy can make a big difference when you’re stuck on the side of the road and need help fast.

Comprehensive car insurance provides the broadest protection and usually covers accidental damage, fire, theft and storm events. Many comprehensive policies also include roadside assistance, which frequently covers the cost of towing, jump starts, flat tyres and other emergency services to get you safely back on the road.

If your policy covers towing, Ready Towing can bill your insurer directly, making the recovery process simple and stress-free.

Is Towing Included In Car Insurance?

There are several levels of car insurance available in Australia, and each offers a different scope of protection:

Comprehensive insurance: the highest level of cover, protecting against accidents, theft, vandalism and weather-related damage.
Third Party Fire and Theft: covers damage you cause to someone else’s property, plus loss or damage to your car from fire or theft.
Third Party Property Damage: the most basic option, covering only the damage you cause to another vehicle or property.

Does comprehensive car insurance cover towing? If you want peace of mind knowing your towing costs will be covered in an emergency, it's important to check with your policy holder and confirm.

Roadside Assistance and Towing

Roadside assistance is one of the most valuable inclusions in a comprehensive policy. Most of Queensland’s leading insurance companies offer roadside assistance as part of a comprehensive car insurance policy. It provides 24/7 support when you face car troubles such as a flat battery, flat tyre or mechanical breakdown.

Towing is typically included in roadside assistance, but limits can vary. Some policies cover towing to the nearest repairer, while others may offer a set distance or dollar limit. In many cases, this service also includes assistance with emergency fuel, lost keys and minor on-the-spot repairs. If you have towing included in your insurance policy, Ready Towing can directly coordinate with your insurance company to foot the bill.

Towing Coverage Options

Not all insurance policies cover towing in the same way. Some will pay for towing after an accident, while others only cover breakdowns. It’s always best to check your policy documents and understand:

When towing is covered (accident, breakdown or both)
Any distance or cost limits to the tow itself
And whether towing is included automatically, or as an add-on.

Choosing a policy that includes adequate towing coverage can save you hundreds of dollars and a lot of stress in an emergency.

Specialised Towing Coverage

Certain vehicles require specific towing arrangements. If you own a caravan, trailer or electric vehicle (EV), you may need specialised coverage.

Caravans and trailers: Regular car insurance may not cover damage or towing for these vehicles. Separate trailer or caravan insurance is often recommended.
Electric vehicles: EVs can require specialised recovery due to its battery systems. Make sure your policy includes suitable towing and roadside support.

Does Car Insurance Cover Towing After An Accident?

When an accident or sudden breakdown happens, knowing you’re covered makes all the difference. Comprehensive car insurance usually includes towing to the nearest approved repairer after a collision or serious fault.

Keep your insurer’s emergency contact details saved in your phone or glove box. They’ll guide you on what to do next and approve you to organise authorised towing services, ensuring your vehicle is handled safely and your claim remains valid.

Vehicle-Specific Coverage

If you drive a motorbike, caravan, truck or specialised vehicle, check that your policy covers towing for your specific vehicle type. Not all comprehensive policies are the same, and some vehicles may require dedicated insurance.

Reviewing your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) will help you understand what is and isn’t included, and avoid surprises when you need help most.

Is Car Towing Covered By Insurance?

Towing coverage can vary widely between insurance providers and policy types. Before you find yourself in a breakdown or accident situation, take the time to review your insurance documents and confirm what’s included.

If you ever need professional, fast and safe towing across South East Queensland, Ready Towing is available 24/7 to assist, whether you’re covered by insurance or paying privately. Our experienced team will work with all major insurers to make the process smooth and stress-free. If you ever need help, contact us for fast, professional assistance you can trust. Find out more about us and what our clients have to say.

More Breakdown Towing & Comprehensive Car Insurance FAQs

Can Ready Towing Bill My Insurance Directly?

Yes. If your policy includes towing coverage, Ready Towing can work directly with most insurers to handle the billing, meaning you don’t pay upfront. Your vehicle can be safely transported to the nearest accredited repairer or another approved location efficiently.

Can a Tow Truck Be Used for Motorcycles or Caravans?

Yes, our towing company has a fleet of tow trucks that can transport motorcycles, cars or a towed caravan. However, special arrangements may be needed for specialist equipment like trailers or motorcycles.

What Should I Do if My Vehicle Breaks Down?

If your vehicle breaks down, your roadside assist benefit may be able to help you. Services typically include towing to the nearest accredited repairer, a replacement battery, a spare key, or minor on-the-spot repairs to get your vehicle home safely. However, sometimes you’re stuck in a bad spot, like the motorway or blocking traffic, and you may need to focus on having your vehicle moved swiftly. In other cases, your vehicle may be irreparable on the roadside, causing you to need a prompt tow. Contact Ready Towing for prompt towing services.

Are Extra Towing Costs Covered?

Depending on your policy, extra towing costs such as long-distance transport, towing after hours, or towing a caravan or trailer may not be fully covered. It’s wise to check if your policy includes optional cover for these situations to avoid paying reasonable costs out of your own pocket.

Who Will Cover the Cost of Accidental Damage Caused by Towing?

If accidental damage occurs during a tow, Ready Towing carries insurance to cover any damage caused by its equipment or personnel. This means you can have peace of mind knowing that, even in the rare event of a mishap, the costs will be taken care of.

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Flat Tyre, No Spare? What to do next:

Emergency Solutions and Assistance

If you’re caught out with a flat tyre and no spare, you could try contacting your roadside assistance for on-site tyre repair. In safe locations, technicians may be able to repair the tyre using sealants or extended mobility solutions.

If this isn’t a suitable solution, Ready Towing is here to help. Our professional team can quickly arrange towing to a local repair shop. When on-site repair isn’t possible, we can transport your car safely to the nearest accredited tyre repairer or garage.

Relying on roadside assistance and professional towing is the safest option when you lack a spare wheel or repair kit. Ready Towing offers fast, reliable support so you can get back on the road without unnecessary risk or delay. Our fleet of tow trucks can assist in light recovery vehicles, heavy recovery vehicles and luxury or low loader recovery.

Causes and Consequences of Flat Tyres

A flat tyre is a common problem; it can be an inconvenience, but mostly, it can be dangerous. Driving on a completely flat tyre risks damaging your car’s rim and wheel. It can even affect braking, acceleration and overall vehicle control. Most cars have a spare, but some modern cars no longer include a spare wheel.

Well then, if you have a flat tyre, what should you do? If you do not have a spare, you’ll need to consider alternative solutions. Perhaps you have temporary puncture repair kits, or your car has run-flat tyres. However, these options may not always be sufficient depending on the location and severity of the puncture.

Addressing a flat tyre promptly is essential to avoid costly repairs. Regular tyre checkups and inspections can reduce the risk of unexpected punctures and keep your car roadworthy and puncture-ready.

Why Choose Ready Towing for Flat Tyre Situations

Rapid Response: We’re available 24/7 for emergencies, getting to you quickly when you’re stranded.
Professional Equipment: Our team has the right tools to tow vehicles safely, including cars without a spare.
Insurance-Friendly: If your policy covers towing, we can bill your insurer directly, removing the need for upfront payment.
Peace of Mind: Our trained technicians ensure your vehicle reaches the nearest accredited repairer safely and efficiently.

With Ready Towing, a flat tyre without a spare doesn’t have to ruin your day. Our team provides reliable solutions that prioritise safety, convenience and minimal disruption.

Tyre Maintenance and Replacement

While carrying a spare tyre is optional in many modern vehicles, regular maintenance becomes even more essential. Tyres must remain roadworthy, with at least 1.6mm tread depth and no visible damage. Proactive tyre care can prevent slow leaks and punctures, making flat tyres far less likely.

Manufacturers sometimes remove spare tyres to reduce vehicle production costs, but solutions like run flat tyres and space saver spares provide emergency mobility if a puncture occurs. Combining tyre checks with full vehicle servicing ensures your car remains safe and ready for unexpected situations.

Long-Term Solutions and Prevention

Modern tyre technologies offer several ways to mitigate the risks of flat tyres:

Run flat tyres allow you to drive up to 80km at reduced speeds after a puncture.
Space saver spares offer a temporary, lightweight, practical alternative for vehicles without a full-size spare.
Puncture repair kits and tyre sealants can provide temporary fixes, but have a limited shelf life.

Premium manufacturers are also developing airless tyres and smart tyre technologies to further reduce the likelihood of flats.

Before buying a new car, it’s worth checking if a spare tyre is included. But even with these options, being caught with a flat tyre is always a possibility, and that’s where Ready Towing can provide fast, professional assistance.

What to do with a Flat Tyre and No Spare? & More FAQs

What Should I Do if I Have a Punctured Tyre and No Spare?

If you find yourself with a punctured tyre and no full-size spare wheel, the safest approach is not to drive on it, as doing so can cause major damage to your rim, suspension, and surrounding vehicle components. In these situations, calling Ready Towing is the fastest and safest solution.

Our professional team can dispatch a tow truck to your location and transport your vehicle to the nearest accredited repairer or tyre service. This ensures your car is handled carefully, prevents additional damage, and allows you to get a replacement tyre installed without stress. Even if you’re in an unfamiliar location or on a busy road, Ready Towing provides peace of mind with experienced operators who know how to manage punctured tyre emergencies efficiently.

Can Small Punctures Be Repaired on the Spot?

Yes. Sometimes small punctures or holes in the tyre valve or tyre rubber can be repaired on-site by skilled technicians using sealants or temporary fixes. This can be especially helpful if you’re in a safe location and need a quick solution to continue driving a short distance. However, not all punctures are suitable for on-the-spot repair. If the damage is too severe or the tyre cannot hold air properly, Ready Towing can safely tow your vehicle to a repair shop. Once there, a new tyre can be installed, restoring full safety and functionality. This approach avoids the temptation to drive on a compromised tyre, which could result in major damage to your car and higher repair costs.

How Do Drivers Prevent Flats Without a Spare Wheel?

Even without a full-size spare wheel, drivers can take steps to minimise the risk of a flat. Regularly checking tyre pressure and inspecting the tyre valve for leaks is essential. Keeping the correct amount of air in your tyres and watching for signs of wear or damage can prevent punctures from happening unexpectedly. While many vehicle manufacturers and car companies no longer provide a spare in the boot, alternatives such as run flat tyres, space saver spares or puncture repair kits can provide temporary mobility until a proper repair is possible. Combining these measures with periodic professional inspections helps ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable.

Can Ready Towing Help If I’m Stuck on a Road Trip?

Absolutely. Getting a flat tyre far from home, or during a road trip, can be stressful and inconvenient. Being stranded in an unfamiliar location, or worse, on a busy highway, is unsafe and can lead to further vehicle damage if you attempt to continue driving. Ready Towing offers fast, professional tow truck services, getting you and your car to the nearest accredited repairer quickly and safely.

Our experienced technicians can handle any situation, ensuring that your vehicle avoids additional harm and you can resume your journey with minimal disruption. Whether it’s a short stop or a long-distance tow, Ready Towing is equipped to provide reliable solutions for drivers.

Is Driving on a Flat Tyre Safe?

No. Driving on a flat tyre is extremely unsafe and can compromise your steering, braking and overall control of the vehicle. Continuing to drive on a flat also risks major damage to the wheel, rim, suspension and other nearby components, which can lead to costly repairs. In such cases, calling a professional tow truck from Ready Towing is the safest option. We ensure your vehicle is transported carefully to a repair facility, protecting your car and giving you peace of mind. Attempting to drive even a short distance on a flat tyre is never recommended.

Do I Need to Worry About Tyre Size or Brand?

Yes. When a tyre needs to be replaced, it’s important to match the same size and ideally the same brand for optimal vehicle performance and safety. Using a different tyre size or incompatible brand can affect handling, braking and tyre wear. Ready Towing ensures your car reaches a qualified repairer who can provide the correct new tyre and ensure it is installed safely. This is especially important when dealing with vehicles that use specialised tyres or performance models.

Can Tyre Maintenance Reduce Flat Tyre Risks?

Absolutely. Proactive maintenance is key for any driver. Regularly checking tyre pressure, inspecting for holes or damage to the tyre valve, and monitoring tread wear all reduce the risk of flats. Maintaining the correct air levels in your tyres prevents punctured tyres and even improves fuel efficiency, as well as extending tyre life. For drivers without a full-size spare wheel, consistent maintenance combined with access to Ready Towing’s emergency services provides extra assurance that a flat tyre won’t leave you stranded.

What Equipment Does Ready Towing Use for Flat Tyre Situations?

Our tow trucks are specially equipped to safely transport vehicles even when no full-size spare wheel is available. Ready Towing uses specialist lifting and securing equipment to prevent major damage during transit. Whether your vehicle is on a busy street, highway or remote area, we can tow it to the nearest accredited repairer, tyre shop or preferred location. Our trained technicians handle each situation carefully, ensuring your car is protected.

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Can A Car Be Towed Without The Keys In QLD?

Losing your car keys or accidentally locking them inside your vehicle can be stressful, especially if you’re stranded on the side of the road or facing an emergency situation. So, can a car be towed without keys? The good news is that towing a car without keys is possible! With the right expertise, equipment and care, Ready Towing can tow your car.

Whether you’ve misplaced your keys, your car has broken down, or it’s been involved in an accident, understanding how the process works can help you stay calm and make informed decisions.

Can my car be towed without keys, but still avoid damage?

It doesn’t matter if your keys are locked inside the vehicle or simply missing; towing a locked car where the key is not accessible requires specific equipment and techniques to avoid suspension damage. Having the right equipment allows the vehicle to safely load without needing access to the ignition or steering.

Most modern cars often have advanced locking systems or electronic gear selectors that make it difficult to put the car in neutral, whether dealing with automatic or manual cars. This is where professional tow truck operators come in. Using tools such as tow dollies, wheel lifts or flatbed trucks, they can safely tow your vehicle without damaging the transmission, tyres or steering components.

In most cases, a flatbed tow truck is the safest and most effective option, especially for long-distance towing or for vehicles with automatic transmissions. Our experienced team has the right tools to get your vehicle out of a tight spot on the street or car park, if it's parked on private property in a driveway, or needs to be pulled from underground garages.

Situations Where Keyless Towing is Necessary

There are several situations where towing a car without keys may be required:

Lost or locked keys: One of the most common reasons drivers need a tow.
Accidents or breakdowns: When the car is undrivable and the keys are unavailable or damaged.
Illegally parked or abandoned vehicles: Towed under authorisation from councils or authorities.
Automatic locking systems: Some vehicles automatically lock when the battery is flat or the key is out of range.

Professional tow truck drivers are trained to handle these scenarios safely. How do tow trucks unlock cars? They may use specialised tools to unlock the car, shift it into neutral or secure it for towing without ever needing the key.

Types of Tow Trucks and Equipment Used

The right towing method depends on the type of vehicle, its condition and the situation your vehicle is stuck in. Here are the most common safe towing methods from our fleet that are used when keys aren’t available:

Flatbed Tow Truck

The flatbed truck, or what we like to call “ordinaries”, is the preferred option for most keyless tows. The vehicle is fully lifted off the ground and secured to the truck bed, protecting the transmission, tyres and suspension. This is the safest method for light recovery vehicles and is especially recommended for all-wheel-drive and automatic cars.

Wheel Lift Tow Truck

A wheel lift towing truck raises the front or rear wheels using a hydraulic system. It’s often used for short-distance towing or when space is limited. However, for long distances or vehicles with electronic parking brakes, a flatbed is safer.

Tow Dollies

Tow dollies lift the drive wheels off the ground, allowing the vehicle to roll smoothly behind the tow truck. This is a practical solution for vehicles that can’t be started or shifted into neutral.

In every case, using the right towing equipment is essential to avoid costly damage and ensure the vehicle remains secure during transport.

Risks and Challenges of Towing a Locked Vehicle

Towing a car without keys requires caution and expertise. Without proper handling, there’s a risk of:

Transmission damage: especially in automatic or all-wheel-drive vehicles.
Steering lock strain: towing a car with a locked steering wheel can cause strain. Many modern cars automatically lock the steering wheel when the key is removed.
Suspension or tyre wear: from dragging or incorrect lifting techniques.

Modern cars with advanced anti-theft systems or electronic parking brakes can pose additional challenges. This is why DIY towing is never recommended; it can lead to significant mechanical damage and safety hazards.

Hire a Professional Tow Truck Service

When you don’t have your car keys, calling a professional towing company is the safest and most reliable solution.

Professional tow truck drivers:

Have the training and experience to handle all types of vehicles, including keyless tows.
Use the correct equipment to protect your car’s transmission, suspension and wheels.
Can respond quickly in emergency situations, including accidents or breakdowns.
Are licensed and insured, giving you peace of mind that your vehicle is in safe hands.

A reputable company like Ready Towing provides 24/7 towing services, ensuring help is available whenever you need it, day or night.

Legal Considerations for Towing Without Keys

There are also legal aspects to consider when towing a vehicle without keys.

Owner authorisation: A vehicle can only be towed with the owner’s permission or under specific legal circumstances (such as police or council authority).
Documentation: Proof of ownership or identification may be required before the vehicle can be towed.
Abandoned or illegally parked vehicles: Towing these vehicles must comply with local council or state regulations.

A professional towing company, like ours, understands these requirements and handles the process according to the law, ensuring that everything is done correctly and transparently.

How to Avoid Needing a Tow

Here are some helpful steps for vehicle owners to avoid needing a locked car tow:

Keep a spare key in a secure but accessible location, such as with a family member or trusted friend, or use a key-tracking device.
Familiarise yourself with your car’s locking and security system, especially for newer models with smart key features.
Keep your car maintained, as regular servicing reduces the chance of unexpected breakdowns.

If you ever find yourself needing your car towed without keys, a little preparation can make the experience smoother:

Save the contact details of a trusted towing service in your phone for quick access during emergencies.
Choose a reliable towing company that has experience with keyless or immobilised vehicles.
Stay calm and stay safe, avoid trying to move or unlock the vehicle yourself. Wait for professional assistance.
Know what to do if your car is towed — understanding the process helps you stay informed and confident.

Can My Car Be Towed Without Keys? The short answer is Yes! Call Ready Towing

Towing a car without keys doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful, as long as you rely on the right professionals. Whether you’ve lost your keys, locked them in the car, or are dealing with an immobilised vehicle, our qualified and experienced towing service can help recover your vehicle safely and efficiently.

Ready Towing provides safe, damage-free towing for all vehicle types, including those without keys, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you ever need help, contact us for fast, professional assistance you can trust. Find out more about us and what our clients have to say.

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Wondering What To Do If Your Car Is Towed in South East Queensland?

We understand it can be a frustrating experience to discover your vehicle has been towed. Below are clear, practical steps you can follow right away for parked vehicles that have been towed: what to check at the scene, how to contact the right people, what documentation to bring and how to protect yourself from unnecessary fees. Having your vehicle towed after an accident? We touch on procedures for that, too.

Car Towed Away! Where Is My Car Towed To In Brisbane?

When a car, truck or bike is towed, it’s usually because the vehicle parked illegally on a public road or private property, posed a safety risk or was removed after an accident. It's a stressful moment thinking, “my car has been towed, where is it?” The quick answer is usually with the tow truck company.

Tow truck operators must follow Queensland Government rules: private-property owners who request tows commonly require a towing authority form, and many tows are recorded with the local council or police. So, if you’re unsure which tow truck company was involved, try calling the council or local police station.

What happens if my car is towed?

You should be given information about who authorised the tow and where the vehicle was taken. If you were, you could call the tow truck company. If you weren’t, contact council authorities or the police station.
Knowing the rules (including Brisbane City Council requirements and fee caps) helps you identify mistakes and avoid extra charges.
You have the right to dispute a tow if procedures weren’t followed.

Assessing The Situation

Before you leave the scene, do a quick check. This includes a few photos and a short call that will make everything easier:

Look for parking signs or private-property towing notices and photograph them.
Take timestamped photos of the space, your vehicle’s position (if visible), nearby markings and any obstructions.
Check for a note/sticker left by the tow operator, which often includes a phone number and yard location.
If there’s no note, call the local council or non-emergency police line to confirm whether they authorised the removal.
If you find a tow company phone number, call them to confirm vehicle location, towing fees, release fees and required documents.

Who To Call If My Car Is Towed?

You should call the tow operator, be factual and get the key details.

When dealing with the tow truck company, ask:

Why the vehicle was towed ( illegally parked on public property or private land, or after an accident - date/time/location).
Who authorised the tow (council, property manager, police).
The exact holding yard address and opening hours.
The total cost (tow + storage + admin) and accepted payment methods.
What ID and proof of ownership are required for release?
Whether they can send an itemised invoice or a reference number by SMS/email.

Record the call: note the person’s name, time and what they told you. If possible, request confirmation in writing.

What Happens When My Car Is Towed After An Accident?

You’re at the scene and can talk to the tow driver:

The tow truck driver will usually confirm who authorised the tow (police or vehicle owner) and arrange to move the vehicle to the nearest holding yard or a nominated repairer.
If police attended, the police officer usually logs the tow on the incident report and gives the tow driver authority.
You can often remove personal items from the vehicle before it’s hooked up (unless police tell you not to for safety or evidence reasons).

You were occupied (with police, in ambulance care, or away) and weren’t there to speak to the tow driver:

If emergency services attended the crash site, police typically arrange a tow to a secure holding yard or police-approved storage. The tow may be recorded on the police incident file.
If you’re taken to the hospital or otherwise unavailable, the vehicle will be removed and stored. Someone authorised by you (partner, friend) can usually act on your behalf to retrieve personal items or begin release steps.

Ready Towing provides fast and efficient accident towing, with secure storage yards so you can have peace of mind while you sort things out.

Understanding your rights

You’re entitled to clear information and a fair process.

Basic rights to remember:

You should be told who authorised the tow and where the vehicle was taken.
You may inspect the vehicle before paying, and you should document any damage.
If a private-property tow lacked proper signage or a towing authority form, you may have grounds to dispute it.
If you’re unsure about any step, contact the Brisbane City Council for guidance.

Getting Your Car Released: What To Bring

Preparing ahead reduces delays at the holding yard. Make sure you bring along:

Photo ID and proof of ownership (registration, insurance documents or written authority).
Payment method confirmed with the tow company.

Avoiding Extra Charges

Storage fees stack up quickly. Reduce costs by:

Collecting your vehicle as soon as possible.
Confirming total costs before you travel to the yard.
Asking about same-day pick-up options or electronic receipts.
Keeping receipts for insurer reimbursement or dispute evidence.

Managing The Cost

To manage the financial impact:

Check whether your insurance covers towing or storage.
Keep itemised invoices for claims or reimbursement requests.
If you suspect overcharging, request a breakdown and escalate to consumer protection if necessary.
If the tow was unauthorised, you may be able to recover costs from the responsible party.
If your motor vehicle also received a parking fine, ensure it is paid by the due date.

Preventing Future Tows

A few small habits prevent most tows:

Check parking signs every time your vehicle is parked; rules can change over time.
Avoid blocking driveways, loading zones or emergency access lanes on public roads or private property; your car will be considered illegally parked.
Watch for private-property towing signs; even small printed signs can authorise a tow.
Use trusted parking apps or paid parking where available.

When My Car Is Towed, Where Can I Find It?

We understand that having your car towed is upsetting. Acting quickly, keeping clear records and following the steps above will help you resolve the situation efficiently and minimise extra costs. If you need help locating your vehicle or understanding a tow notice from Ready Towing, contact us. We can confirm the holding yard and explain the next steps.

by bmreadytow