- A complete roadside protection package covers the towing and labor costs of having your vehicle towed to a local mechanic or car lot. It also typically pays for the labor costs associated with repairing your car on the roadside if necessary. If you have this protection, your insurance provider sends you a separate card indicating the provider and how to get assistance.
- Towing protection is typically paid in one of two ways. The first is direct payment from your insurance provider to the service provider. This is extremely convenient when you are already faced with the stress of needing assistance. Typically, you call a number listed on your insurance card to speak with your roadside protection service provider. The service person gets your details and contacts a towing company and then makes payment directly to the company.
- An alternative method of insurance processing is for you as the insured to pay the towing company directly. After getting the service and making payment, you submit a claim to your auto insurance company. The insurer then reimburses you for the amount allowed by your insurance. Towing benefits often allow for up to $75 of protection for service.
- In his Insureme.com article "Towing fraud takes stranded drivers for a ride," Justin Stoltzfus advises drivers to be wary of routine towing scams or fraud. This occurs when towing companies prey on stranded and upset drivers by scouring the highways for accidents or trouble. They make verbal agreements to towing charges or other arrangements and then essentially take your vehicle hostage with ridiculous fees at the point of payment. Knowing what type of towing insurance you have ahead of time helps greatly, and you should only agree to towing with companies arranged or approved by your insurer.
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