How much should towing a car cost... any tips?

Got stuck on the side of the road last week and needed a tow. The bill was higher than expected! How much does a tow usually cost, and does anyone know if insurance can help cover it?

I think the average is around $109, but it depends on the distance. Shorter distances are usually cheaper.

Keenan said:
I think the average is around $109, but it depends on the distance. Shorter distances are usually cheaper.

Yep! Plus, some companies charge per mile. I paid $4 per mile once, but I think it can go up to $7.

@August
Wow, that adds up quickly if you’re going far!

If you have roadside assistance, check if it covers towing! I know AAA and some insurance companies offer it as an add-on.

Voss said:
If you have roadside assistance, check if it covers towing! I know AAA and some insurance companies offer it as an add-on.

AAA has saved me a few times! It’s worth it if you don’t want to pay out of pocket.

FYI, flatbed tows are more expensive but safer for your car. If it’s in your budget, it might be worth requesting.

Hadi said:
FYI, flatbed tows are more expensive but safer for your car. If it’s in your budget, it might be worth requesting.

Good point! Especially if you have an SUV or a truck, they’ll often recommend a flatbed.

I didn’t have insurance coverage for towing once and ended up paying a lot… since then, I added roadside assistance to my policy. Much cheaper in the long run!

Chen said:
I didn’t have insurance coverage for towing once and ended up paying a lot… since then, I added roadside assistance to my policy. Much cheaper in the long run!

Smart move! A lot of insurance companies offer roadside for just a few bucks a month.

For anyone curious, towing at night or in bad weather can be more expensive too, so try to call during the day if you can.

Merrick said:
For anyone curious, towing at night or in bad weather can be more expensive too, so try to call during the day if you can.

Makes sense. Less availability at night, so they charge more.