What happens if a tow truck damages your car

If a tow truck damages your car, here's what you should do:

Inspect and Document the Damage

• Immediately Inspect: As soon as you notice the damage, inspect your vehicle thoroughly. If possible, document the damage while the car is still in the condition it was when it was towed.
• Take Photos: Take clear photos of any visible damage to the car, the tow truck, and the surrounding area. This will be crucial for proving the extent of the damage and establishing when and where it occurred.
• Document the Tow: Write down or take a photo of the tow truck’s identification, including the company name, license plate number, and driver’s name.

Contact the Tow Truck Company

• Report the Damage: Get in touch with the towing company as soon as possible. Explain what happened and provide them with the documentation you’ve gathered. Tow companies often have insurance to cover damage that occurs while the vehicle is in their custody.
• Request a Resolution: Ask how they plan to handle the damage. They may initiate an investigation to verify the claim.

File an Insurance Claim

• Towing Company’s Insurance: If the tow company acknowledges responsibility, they might cover the repairs through their insurance. Provide them with all necessary documentation (photos, receipts, and reports).
• Your Insurance: If the towing company denies responsibility or their insurance doesn’t cover the damage, you can file a claim with your own insurance company. If you have comprehensive or collision coverage, this might cover the repair costs (minus any deductible).
• Liability: If the towing company’s insurance or your own does not cover the damage, the company may be held liable, and you may need to seek compensation through legal means.

Legal Action (If Needed)

• Small Claims Court: If you're unable to resolve the issue through insurance, you can file a claim in small claims court to seek compensation for repairs. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation to support your case.
• Consult an Attorney: If the damages are significant or the company is uncooperative, consulting a lawyer can help you understand your legal options. A lawyer can assist with filing a lawsuit if necessary.

Prevent Future Issues

• Before Towing: When your car is being towed, if possible, inspect it for any pre-existing damage and document it. You might also want to ask the tow truck driver to sign off on the car’s condition before towing.
• Verify Towing Insurance: Before hiring a towing company, confirm they have proper insurance coverage to protect your vehicle during the towing process.

In summary, if a tow truck damages your car, it’s important to document everything, contact the towing company to report the damage, and explore your options through insurance or legal action if needed.