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.