How Should I Call for a Tow Truck After an Accident?

You’re standing on the side of a road in the Tacoma area, the flashing lights of the police car painting the scene. Your car is crumpled and clearly undrivable. The officer finishes taking your statement and asks, “Where would you like the vehicle towed?” In that moment, another layer of stress hits you: you have no idea. Who do you call? Can you trust just any tow truck that shows up? How much is this going to cost?

Arranging for a tow after an accident is more than just getting your car off the road; it’s the first step in the property damage claim process. Making a smart, informed choice can prevent you from falling victim to predatory towing scams and can make your insurance claim smoother.

This guide will break down your options, explain the pros and cons of each, and give you a checklist of what to do to ensure your vehicle is handled safely and professionally.

Useful Information for You: In a Nutshell

• Option 1: Police-Dispatched Tow (Safest at the Scene): When you call 911, the police can dispatch a licensed, rotating tow truck. This is often the safest and most reliable option in a high-stress situation.
• Option 2: Your Insurance Company’s Roadside Assistance: If you have it, call the roadside assistance number on your insurance card. They will dispatch a trusted local provider, and the process will be integrated with your claim.
• Option 3: Your Personal Choice (e.g., AAA or a trusted mechanic): If you are in a safe location and have a membership like AAA or a preferred local tow company, you can call them directly.
• Avoid “Accident Chasers”: Be wary of unsolicited tow trucks that show up at the scene without being called. Stick with one of the three options above.
• Get Everything in Writing: Before your car is hooked up, get the company name, the driver’s name, the total cost, and the exact address where your car is being taken.

Your Three Main Options for a Tow

1. The Police-Dispatched Tow Truck When a police officer responds to your crash scene, especially on a highway like I-5, they need to clear the roadway quickly and safely. Washington State agencies like the WSP use a rotational tow program. This means they have a pre-approved list of licensed and insured local towing companies that they call in order.

• Pros: This is the most straightforward and often safest option. The companies are vetted, and the officer is there to document the tow. The tow charge is regulated and can be submitted to your insurance.
• Cons: You don’t get to choose the company, and you may not know where your car is being taken until you ask.

2. Your Insurance Company’s Roadside Assistance Most major auto insurance policies offer an optional roadside assistance program. You can find the dedicated phone number on your insurance card or in your mobile app.

• Pros: This is a fantastic option. The call is logged as part of your claim from the very beginning. The insurance company dispatches a tow provider from their own approved network, and they may even handle the billing directly.
• Cons: It may take longer for this truck to arrive than a police-dispatched one. This is a better choice when you are in a safe location (like a parking lot) rather than on the shoulder of a busy highway.

3. Calling Your Own Service (AAA, Preferred Mechanic, etc.) If you have a membership with a service like AAA or have a local Tacoma auto body shop you trust, you can call them directly.

• Pros: You get to choose a company you are familiar with and can direct them to tow the car to a repair shop you trust.
• Cons: Like using your insurance’s service, this can take time. It also puts the responsibility on you to coordinate the tow and pay upfront (though you will be reimbursed by your insurance later).

Red Flag: Avoiding Towing Scams

Be extremely cautious of unsolicited tow trucks that just “show up” at an accident scene. These are sometimes called “accident chasers.” They may monitor police scanners and race to the scene to pressure you into using their service. They might overcharge, tow your car to an inconvenient location, and make it difficult to get your vehicle back. Politely decline their services and tell them you are waiting for a police-dispatched or insurance-approved tow.

Your Pre-Tow Checklist: What to Do Before They Hook Up Your Car

No matter who you call, never let them tow your car without getting this information first:

• Get the Company Name and Driver’s Name: Know who has your car.
• Confirm the Destination: Ask for the exact name and street address of the storage yard or repair shop where they are taking your vehicle.
• Get a Price: Ask for the total cost for the tow and any daily storage fees. Get this in writing on an invoice or authorization form.
• Take Your Belongings: Remove all personal and valuable items from your car before it’s towed.
• Take More Photos: Snap a few final pictures of your car’s condition just before it’s hooked up to the truck.

Making a smart decision about your tow truck is your first step toward a successful property damage claim. By staying calm and following these steps, you can ensure your vehicle is in good hands.

After the tow truck leaves, the real work of the insurance claim begins. If you are facing a complicated claim or have questions about the process in the Tacoma area, search the Car Accident Lawyer Directory Tacoma. Compare profiles and reviews of experienced local attorneys who can manage the entire claim process for you, from property damage to injury compensation.

References

• Washington State Patrol (WSP) – Rotational Tow Program: Official information from the WSP explaining how their regulated rotational tow program works to ensure public safety. https://www.wsp.wa.gov/commercial-vehicle/rotational-tow-program/
• Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) – Towing: The UTC regulates the towing industry in Washington. Their site provides consumer information on towing rates and consumer rights. https://www.utc.wa.gov/consumers/transportation/towing