Accidents happen all the time and in most cases when you least expect them to. Oftentimes after an accident, people are distraught, anxious, and unsure of what to do. For many people, that panicked state creates a recipe for disaster, where bad decisions happen one after another. If you are in an accident, follow these steps before getting your car towed.
Call Your Insurance Company
Your insurance company is there for you after an accident. By calling them, they can help guide you through the often tumultuous time after an accident. Your insurance company should also be able to help you with the following things:
- Assessing if your car needs to be towed
- Which towing companies are reputable
- What are fair rates that you should be offered
- In some cases they will get a tow truck out to you, leaving you to focus on your own safety
Determine Whether or Not You Need a Tow
For many people, after an accident, their first reaction is to procure a tow truck. However, that isn’t always the best decision. If your airbags have been deployed or if a police officer tells you that you should call one, then a towing company should be your next contact. If the following items are all correct you most likely won’t need a tow because your car is safe and able to operate.
- There are no fluid leaks
- Your car’s hood can shut and latch
- Your car’s steering works
- Your car’s brakes work
- Your car’s headlights, tail lights, turn lights and brake lights all work
Preparing for a Tow Truck
Before your car is moved onto the tow truck make sure to document all damage to your vehicle, the scene and anything involved with the collision. Once your car is moved it will be hard for others to understand the severity of the accident. Also, make sure to take out any essentials you need, anything valuable and any personal items that are in the car.
Validate the Driver’s Credentials and the Company
It may be surprising but there are many unscrupulous towing companies that actively head to accident scenes to try and rip off car accident victims. These tow truck companies add on extra fees and hide a lot of other charges from their victims, banking on the fact that someone is shaken up after an accident. It never hurts to make sure the person wanting to take your car is the person you called for.
Honest companies should provide you with an itemized list of charges, they should also provide you with a basic quote and list where the vehicle is being taken. Don’t sign off on any paperwork until you know that everything is correct. Also, make sure to keep a copy for your records.
Know Where the Car is Going
Before letting your vehicle get attached to the towing chains and loaded onto the truck, make sure that you know exactly where your vehicle is going. If you are taking it to your favorite mechanic, back to the dealership or to a place your insurance recommended, make sure that location is where your car is being taken. Never let the tow truck driver or the company decide where to take your vehicle.
How Idaho Falls Towing Companies can Help
If you ever find yourself needing a tow truck don’t hesitate to call Idaho Falls towing companies. These hard-working individuals can help you work through the process of getting your car onto a truck after an accident and will always leave you in good hands.