If your car broke down, or if it was in an auto accident, you don’t want it to be damaged farther. When you call a tow truck, you expect safe transport of your vehicle.
Tow trucks will pick up your damaged or disabled vehicle and haul it to a repair facility, the tow yard, or to your home, whichever you specify.
Because of the complexity of the towing process, it is imperative for the driver to handle the picking up of your vehicle, the towing, and the dropping off your vehicle properly, otherwise damage might result.
If a tow truck damaged your car, you might be able to recoup compensation by pursuing a personal injury claim for property damages against the towing company.
What to do at the Accident Scene
When the tow truck damages your vehicle, there are several things that you need to do at the scene.
- Take note of any damage to your vehicle when the tow truck picks it up. Even if it has already been in an accident, you should check the existing damage.
- Take photos of the damage to your vehicle before it is picked up. It is wise to videotape the vehicle being loaded onto the tow truck, or to at least take photos of the process.
- Ask the tow truck driver for a business card, or at least get his name and the name of the towing company.
What to do After Tow Truck Damaged Your Car
If a tow truck damages your car, there are several steps you need to follow to recoup compensation for the damages.
- Inspect your vehicle once again when the tow truck unloads it.
- If you are at the scene when the tow truck unloads your vehicle, you might want to videotape it or at least take photos.
- Check the car for damage thoroughly. You will need to notify the tow truck driver of all damages suffered during the towing process.
- Get a written estimate for repairing the damage specifically caused by the tow truck.
- Notify the towing company that the tow truck damaged your car. Sometimes the tow truck driver might be willing to admit to his or her mistake, but at other times, you might have to prove that the damages you are claiming were caused by the tow truck itself.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If a tow truck damaged car, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who is licensed to practice law in your state. Through a personal injury claim, you can recoup compensation for your property damages.
You will need to have documentation to show the damages were caused by the tow truck. You will also need to have estimates showing the cost of fixing the damage, so the proper amount can be sought through the accident injury claim.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page, so an attorney in your area can review the details of your case and determine the best way to proceed with a claim.
