Experiencing a major car accident can be a traumatic and confusing event. The last thing you need to do is deal with a tow company in a confusing state. You can call certain services to get vehicles towed but knowing what to do with them can help you greatly.
For starters, it saves impound and storage fees, allowing you to make better decisions. However, among the many decisions you’ll have to make is where to tow your car. Understanding your options and the associated costs can help you make a better choice.
It also helps clients pay storage fees and save complications with tow companies. It also saves you from slamming into other vehicles trying to over your vehicle on your own.
If you’re confused, do not fret. We will cover everything you need to know about towing your car after an accident in Las Vegas, NV.
Tow Truck Process: Steps to Take After an Accident
Immediately after a car accident, your safety and the safety of others involved are the most important concerns. Here’s a quick guide on what to do:
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for any injuries. Call 911 if medical assistance is needed.
- Move to Safety: If it’s safe and possible, move your car out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Call the Police: Report the accident by calling the non-emergency police number. A police report can be critical for insurance claims and legal purposes.
- Collect Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible damages.
- Exchange Information: Get the contact and insurance details of the other party involved in the accident.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. They can assess if collision insurance is applicable or not.
- Contact a Towing Company: Decide where to tow your car.
Remember, contacting a towing company is always a good idea. The towing company notifies their vehicle in the vicinity and move your car to where it’s needed.
If you don’t have the other insurance company paying for the damages, you might be in a fuss.
Towing and Impoundment Laws in Nevada: What To Tell Your Towing Company
In Nevada, towing and impoundment laws are regulated to ensure fair practices. The last thing a car owner wants is to tow yards across the city and not know what to do. It’s important to know your rights and responsibilities regarding towing services:
- Consent to Tow: Your vehicle can only be towed with your consent unless it’s blocking traffic or posing a danger.
- Notice of Tow: The towing company must notify the registered owner of the vehicle within 48 hours of towing.
- Fees: Towing fees and storage fees must be reasonable and are regulated by state law.
Can I Decide Where My Car Is Towed After a Car Accident in Las Vegas?
Yes, you have the right to decide where your car is towed after an accident. Here are some common options:
- Auto Body Shop: If you have a preferred auto body shop, you can have your car towed there for repairs.
- Tow Yard: Your car can be taken to a tow yard or impound yard, but be aware of daily storage fees.
- Home: In some cases, you might choose to tow your car to your home or a family member’s property.
- Nearest Salvage Yard: If your car is totaled, you might consider towing it to the nearest salvage yard.
When Should I Tow My Car After a Car Accident in Las Vegas?
You should have your car towed as soon as possible after an accident if:
- The vehicle is blocking traffic.
- It’s unsafe to drive.
- The police require it.
- You want to prevent further damage.
How to Have Your Car Towed After an Accident For Least Storage Fees
Here are the steps to have your car towed after an accident:
- Contact a Towing Company: Research and contact a reputable towing company. Your insurance company may recommend one.
- Provide Details: Give the tow truck driver specific instructions on where to take your car.
- Verify Costs: Confirm the towing costs and any potential storage fees before agreeing to the tow.
Who Regulates Towing Services in Las Vegas?
Towing services in Las Vegas are regulated by the Nevada Transportation Authority (NTA). The NTA ensures that towing companies follow state laws and regulations regarding towing fees and practices.
Who Pays for Towing After a Car Accident?
- Insurance Company: Your auto insurance policy may cover towing costs. Check with your insurance company to confirm.
- At-Fault Driver: If another driver is at fault, their insurance company may cover the towing expenses.
- Out-of-Pocket: If insurance doesn’t cover the towing costs, you’ll have to pay out of pocket and seek reimbursement later.
How Much Does It Cost to Tow a Car?
Towing costs can vary, but here are some typical expenses you might encounter:
- Base Fee: $75-$125 for the initial tow.
- Mileage Fee: $2-$4 per mile.
- Storage Fees: $20-$40 per day.
Will My Insurance Company Cover the Costs of My Towed Car?
Most auto insurance policies, including collision coverage and roadside assistance plans, cover towing costs. Review your insurance policy or contact your insurance company to understand your coverage.
How Much Can I Recover After This?
If you were not at fault, you could potentially recover the following costs:
- Towing Fees: The cost of towing your car.
- Storage Fees: Daily fees for storing your car in a tow yard.
- Repair Costs: Expenses for repairing your car at an auto body shop.
- Medical Bills: Costs for any medical treatment needed due to the accident.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for any income lost if you couldn’t work due to the accident.
- Rental Car: Costs for renting a car while your vehicle is being repaired.
How an Attorney Can Help You in This Case
An experienced attorney can provide invaluable assistance following a car accident, particularly when dealing with the complexities of towing and insurance claims. Here are key ways an attorney can help you:
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Attorneys ensure fair compensation for towing fees and damages, countering insurance company tactics to minimize payouts. They can also interpret your insurance policy to maximize coverage utilization.
- Handle Legal Issues: An attorney can resolve disputes regarding fault or coverage and represent you in court if necessary. Their expertise ensures legal issues are managed effectively.
- Guide You Through the Process: Attorneys offer step-by-step assistance from reporting the accident to filing insurance claims. They help gather and organize essential documentation and evidence to support your case.
- Maximize Your Compensation: Attorneys ensure you seek comprehensive compensation for all damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and future expenses. They maximize your financial recovery from the accident.
- Protect Your Rights: Attorneys provide expert legal advice to protect your rights and help you make informed decisions. They help you avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize your claim.
- Manage Communication: An attorney handles all communications with insurance companies and other parties involved, preventing any inadvertent statements that could harm your case. They provide professional representation for your peace of mind.
- Evaluate Settlement Offers: Attorneys assess settlement offers from insurance companies to determine fairness and adequacy. They negotiate or counteroffer to ensure you receive appropriate compensation.
- Contingency Fee Basis: Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. This makes legal representation accessible without upfront costs.
- Expert Network: Attorneys have access to a network of experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, who can provide valuable testimony and support for your claim.
Need Help with Towing and Accident Recovery?
Knowing where to tow your car after an accident and understanding the associated costs and legalities can make a stressful situation more manageable.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your vehicle is safely towed, minimize out-of-pocket expenses, and focus on recovering from the accident.
If you have any doubts or need assistance, don’t hesitate to consult with a legal professional who can guide you through the process.
Contact BLG Today!
At BLG, we understand the stress and confusion that follows a car accident. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for:
- Towing fees
- Vehicle repairs
- Medical bills and more.
Don’t face this challenging time alone.
Contact us today for a free consultation.