If your car ever breaks down in the middle of the road, you’ve probably wondered will my insurance cover the tow truck bill? Honestly, that’s a really good question. Because when you’re stranded with a dead battery or flat tire, the last thing you want to worry about is paying extra for towing.
Let’s break it down in simple terms so you’ll know exactly what’s covered (and what’s not) under full coverage car insurance.
What Full Coverage Actually Means
Many drivers think full coverage means everything is covered but that’s not exactly true.
Full coverage is a term people use for a combination of coverages, usually including:
- Liability insurance – covers damage you cause to others.
- Collision coverage – pays for damage to your car from an accident.
- Comprehensive coverage – covers non-collision issues like theft, vandalism, or storms.
But here’s the catch: Towing and roadside assistance are not automatically included in full coverage. They’re usually optional add-ons you have to buy separately.
So, Does Full Coverage Include Towing
Not by default.
Most full coverage policies don’t cover towing unless you’ve added roadside assistance or towing coverage to your policy.
If you’re unsure, check your insurance documents for terms like:
- Emergency Roadside Assistance
- Towing and Labor Coverage
- Roadside Rescue Service
These add-ons typically cost only a few extra dollars per month but can save you hundreds if your car ever breaks down.
Example: Real-World Scenario
Let’s say your car stops working because of a dead battery. You call a tow truck, and it costs $120 to take your car to the nearest shop.
If you don’t have roadside assistance, that $120 comes straight out of your pocket.
But if you do have it, your insurance will usually reimburse or directly pay for the towing up to your policy limit.
What Roadside Assistance Usually Covers
Here’s what most towing or roadside plans include:
| Service | Usually Covered |
| Towing (limited miles) | Yes |
| Jump-start for dead battery | Yes |
| Flat tire change | Yes |
| Lockout service | Yes |
| Fuel delivery | Yes |
| Winching (stuck in mud/snow) | Sometimes |
Each insurer’s limits are different. For example, one company may cover towing up to 15 miles, while another might go up to 100 miles.
Is It Worth Adding Towing Coverage
Absolutely especially if:
- You drive long distances often.
- Your car is older or more likely to break down.
- You don’t have another roadside plan (like AAA).
The cost of adding towing coverage is usually $5–$15 per month, way cheaper than paying $100+ for a single tow.
What to Do If You Need a Tow
- Call your insurer’s roadside number (it’s usually on your insurance card).
- Request assistance and give your location.
- Keep receipts if you pay upfront some companies reimburse after submission.
- Stay safe while waiting; pull over to the shoulder or safe area.
Pro Tip: Check Before You Need It
Don’t wait until your car breaks down to find out you’re not covered.
Log into your insurance account or call your agent and ask:
Do I have roadside or towing coverage included in my policy
If not, add it. It’s one of those small extras that can save you big stress later.
Summary
So, does full coverage car insurance cover towing
Not unless you’ve added roadside assistance or towing coverage.
Full coverage protects your car from accidents and damage but towing is a separate benefit you can easily include for a small cost. Trust me, it’s worth every penny the day you need it.