If a tow operator says insurance will cover it, is that a guarantee?

No. It is a common line used to avoid quoting a price. Your insurer will only pay 'reasonable' costs, and you could be liable for the rest.

Why would my insurer refuse to pay the full tow bill?

Insurers refuse to pay for inflated rates, unjustified 'recovery' fees, or excessive storage charges that are above standard market prices.

What happens if my insurer disputes the bill?

The tow company will then pursue you for the full amount. Your car may be held in their storage yard, accumulating daily fees, until the bill is paid.

What should I always do before agreeing to an accident tow?

Always get a fixed, final price in writing. Do not accept vague assurances about insurance coverage.

Is it better to call my insurer or a tow company first after a crash?

It is always best to call your insurer first. They can advise you on their approved process. If you need immediate help, call a trusted provider like InstaTow that offers transparent pricing.

Why ‘Insurance Will Cover It’ Is One of the Most Dangerous Lies at the Roadside

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“Don’t worry mate, your insurance will cover it.”

This is one of the most effective and dangerous lies told at a crash scene in Western Australia. It is designed to make you drop your guard, stop asking questions about price, and hand over your keys. It is how a $300 tow turns into a $3,000 problem that lands squarely on your shoulders.

Here Is the Hard Truth: Your Insurer Will Not Pay an Unreasonable Bill

Insurance companies are not charities. They are legally and financially obligated to pay for “reasonable and necessary” towing costs associated with a claim. They are not obligated to pay for:

Inflated or non-standard towing rates.
Unjustified “recovery” or “salvage” fees.
Excessive daily storage charges.
Fraudulent administration or late payment fees.

Predatory tow operators know this. Their business model relies on it.

The Scam Unfolds in predictable Steps

The tow operator uses the “insurance will cover it” line to avoid giving you a price.
They tow your car to their own high-cost storage yard.
They send an outrageously inflated bill to your insurer.
Your insurer assesses the bill, sees it’s double or triple the market rate, and disputes it. They agree to pay only the “reasonable” portion.
The tow company rejects the partial payment and demands the full amount from you.

You are now caught. Your car is hostage in their yard, racking up more storage fees every day, and the tow company is sending you letters of demand.

‘Insurance Will Cover It’ Is a Strategy, Not a Reassurance

When a tow operator says this, they are not helping you. They are helping themselves. They are intentionally creating a dispute between you and your insurer, knowing you will be the one stuck in the middle with the most to lose.

A legitimate operator will give you a clear price and explain what is and isn’t likely to be covered. They want a smooth transaction, not a fight.

What You Say to Shut It Down

If you hear “insurance will cover it” as an answer to a question about price, stop the conversation.

Say this:

“I need the full price in writing, regardless of insurance. I will handle the claim myself.”

Their willingness to provide a clear, fixed quote tells you if they are legitimate. If they refuse, you refuse the tow.

The smartest move is to call your insurer or InstaTow first. We provide upfront pricing and work within established industry rates, ensuring there are no billing disputes later.

Don't let a comforting lie at the roadside become your financial nightmare.