# Does full coverage car insurance include towing services?

Amelia Palmer · August 4, 2026

> Full coverage car insurance typically refers to a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, but it does not inherently include...

Full coverage car insurance typically refers to a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, but it does not inherently include towing services

Towing services generally fall under roadside assistance coverage, which is often an optional add-on to standard car insurance policies

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The standard car insurance policy usually provides coverage for towing only in specific instances, such as if the vehicle is damaged in an accident or if mechanical breakdown occurs while on the road

Roadside assistance coverage, sometimes called "towing and labor coverage," is separate from full coverage and specifically addresses towing needs for disabled vehicles

The distance that towing services will cover is frequently limited, with many policies specifying a certain number of miles, often ranging from 10 to 100 miles, after which additional fees apply

Towing coverage typically does not apply if the vehicle malfunctioned due to mechanical issues, which most standard insurance policies consider a maintenance problem outside their coverage

Some insurers might extend towing coverage to include costs associated with transport to a repair facility post-accident, but this varies by provider and needs to be confirmed by the policyholder

According to industry statistics, about 70% of drivers believe their full coverage includes roadside assistance, when in reality, they must opt in for this service

Towing companies usually charge by the mile, making towing coverage a financially wise addition for individuals who may frequently drive far from home

In some states, insurers are legally required to provide towing services following an accident, ensuring that drivers are not left stranded on the road

By adding roadside assistance to their policy, insured drivers could also receive a range of services beyond towing, including battery jump-starts, lockout assistance, and fuel delivery

Recent trends show an increase in bundled services offered by insurers, where roadside assistance can be included at a lower rate when included with other insurance types

Coverage for towing as part of auto insurance can differ significantly between insurers, highlighting the importance of reviewing the terms and conditions of each policy

An essential detail to understand is that towing often requires prior authorization from the insurance provider, meaning drivers should be familiar with their policy’s specific processes

Insurance companies frequently track which roadways are covered under towing services, using algorithms that assess risk and cost associated with various travel conditions

While towing services may be included in some auto insurance policies post-accident, the cost of storage for the vehicle after an accident can arise and may not be covered without additional provisions

Some policies include a 'first tow' free of charge, but subsequent tows may incur fees unless specific towing and labor coverage has been purchased

There is an evolving trend in the insurance market where telematics devices track driving habits; some insurers offer discounts or bundling offers for customers who consistently drive safely

Advanced telematics technology not only helps in monitoring vehicle performance but also aids in quicker roadside service response times for insured drivers

The science behind roadside assistance technology utilizes GPS and mobile app technologies, allowing users to summon help and track the service’s arrival in real time

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