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What to Do When You Need a Tow After an Accident: A Simple Guide

Being in a car accident is scary and confusing. After making sure everyone is safe, you might need to get your car towed. Here’s an easy guide on what to do when you need a tow after an accident.

Stay Safe and Call for Help

First, check if you or anyone else in your car is hurt. If someone is injured, call 911 right away. Even if you don’t see any injuries, it’s still a good idea to call for medical help. Some injuries aren’t obvious right after an accident.

If your car is causing a danger on the road and it’s safe to move it, try to get it to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights so other drivers know something is wrong.

Call the Police

No matter how minor the accident seems, you should call the police. They will come to the scene, make a report, and help keep everyone safe. This report will be important for your insurance claim later on.

Take Photos and Exchange Information

While you wait for the police, take pictures of the accident scene. Get photos of all the cars involved, especially the damaged areas. This will help with your insurance claim. Also, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s). Be polite and avoid talking about who was at fault.

Decide if You Need a Tow

Next, check your car to see if it’s safe to drive. If there’s a lot of damage, it’s better to have it towed. Sometimes the damage isn’t obvious, so if you’re unsure, ask the police or a mechanic if your car needs a tow.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve taken care of immediate concerns, call your insurance company. Let them know about the accident and ask if your policy covers towing. They might have preferred towing companies they can recommend, which can save you money and hassle.

Choose a Towing Service

If your insurance doesn’t have a specific towing service, you’ll need to find one. Look for companies with good reviews and clear prices. Be careful of tow trucks that show up without being called; some might charge too much. Always get a quote before agreeing to a tow and make sure the company is reputable.

After Your Car is Towed

Arrange for your own ride home or to a repair shop if you’re not going with the tow truck. Make sure you take all your personal belongings out of the car before it’s towed.

Next, follow up with your insurance company to process your claim. Send them the police report and photos of the damage. Choose a repair shop approved by your insurance, and get an estimate for the repairs.

Know Your Rights

Understand the local laws about towing and storage. Some places have rules to protect you from high fees. Keep all the records, including invoices and receipts, in case there are any problems later.

Getting Back on the Road Safely

Handling a car accident is tough, but knowing what to do when you need a tow can make things easier. Stay safe, communicate clearly with everyone involved, and follow your insurance company’s advice. This will help you recover from the accident and get back on the road.

Stuck on the side of the road after an accident? Trust West Vail Shell Towing and Recovery for fast, reliable towing services in Eagle County. Our experienced team is ready 24/7 to help you get back on track safely and quickly. Call us now for immediate assistance!

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