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Do I Have to Pay Storage Fees During the Accident Investigation?

After a car accident, unexpected expenses can pile up quickly. Among these are towing and storage fees—charges that many drivers don’t anticipate. But who is responsible for these costs while your insurance company investigates the wreck? Let’s break it down.

Table of Contents

• What Are Storage and Towing Fees?
• Who Is Responsible for These Fees After a Car Accident?
• How Insurance Investigations Affect Fee Payments
• Can You Avoid or Reduce Storage and Towing Fees?
• Steps to Take After a Wreck to Protect Yourself Financially
• What If the Insurance Company Denies Responsibility?
• Legal Implications and Your Rights
• How Roberts & Roberts Can Help
• FAQs

What Are Storage and Towing Fees?

Towing fees cover the cost of transporting your vehicle from the accident scene to a storage yard or repair facility. Storage fees are daily charges for keeping your car in a tow yard. These fees can quickly escalate, often ranging from $20 to $100 per day, depending on the location and facility.

Who Is Responsible for These Fees After a Car Accident?

Responsibility depends on the circumstances of the accident:

• At-Fault Driver’s Insurance: If another driver caused the wreck, their insurance typically pays for towing and storage.
• Your Insurance: If liability is unclear, your own insurance may cover these costs temporarily under your policy.

The key is determining fault, which often delays payment.

How Insurance Investigations Affect Fee Payments

Insurance investigations aim to establish liability, but this process can take time. While the investigation unfolds, storage fees accumulate daily. Unfortunately, towing companies usually expect payment upfront, leaving you to negotiate reimbursement later.

Can You Avoid or Reduce Storage and Towing Fees?

Yes, there are ways to minimize these expenses:

• Move Your Vehicle: Transfer your car to a repair shop or another location as soon as possible to avoid high storage fees.
• Communicate Early: Contact your insurer immediately to expedite the claims process.

Steps to Take After a Wreck to Protect Yourself Financially

1. Contact your insurance company immediately.
2. Document everything, including photos of the wreck and invoices for towing/storage.
3. Review your policy to understand coverage for towing and storage fees.

What If the Insurance Company Denies Responsibility?

If your insurer or the at-fault party’s insurer refuses to pay, you may have to cover the fees temporarily. Keep records and seek reimbursement later. If disputes arise, consulting a lawyer can help protect your rights.

Legal Implications and Your Rights

Each state has laws governing towing and storage fees. For example, some states cap daily storage charges. Knowing your rights can help you dispute excessive fees or unfair practices.

How Roberts & Roberts Can Help

At Roberts & Roberts, we specialize in protecting accident victims from unexpected financial burdens. If you’re facing disputes over towing and storage fees, our team can help you navigate the legal and insurance challenges. Let us fight for your financial recovery.

FAQs

1. Can I refuse to pay towing or storage fees?

No, refusing to pay may result in legal action or loss of your vehicle. However, you can dispute unfair charges later.

2. How long will my car stay in storage during the investigation?

It depends on the investigation’s duration. Moving your vehicle can reduce fees.

3. What if the tow yard charges excessive fees?

Check your state’s laws for fee caps and dispute excessive charges with legal help if necessary.

4. Will my insurance reimburse me for fees I’ve already paid?

Yes, if your policy covers towing and storage, your insurer may reimburse you upon claim approval.

5. How can a personal injury lawyer help with towing and storage disputes?

A lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies, dispute excessive charges, and protect your rights under state law.