Tow Truck Damaged My Car: Who Pays in Chicago: Roadside Tips

Quick takeaway: Tow truck damaged your car in Chicago? Learn who pays, what to do immediately, and how to file claims with insurance or towing companies.

Originally published on Tow With The Flow.

Quick Answer: The towing company is liable for damage they cause to your vehicle. In Chicago, tow truck operators must carry insurance and are responsible for damages during transport. Document everything immediately and file claims with both the towing company and your insurance.

What To Do

  1. Stop the tow immediately if you see damage happening. Don't let them continue.
  1. Take photos of all damage from multiple angles. Include the tow truck's license plate, company name, and driver information.
  1. Get the driver's information: name, license number, insurance company, and policy number. Chicago requires tow operators to carry minimum $100,000 liability coverage.
  1. Document everything in writing. Note the time, location, weather conditions, and exactly what happened.
  1. Call Chicago Police if the damage is significant or the tow company refuses to cooperate. File a report.
  1. Contact the towing company's insurance within 24 hours. Most Chicago tow companies use commercial carriers like Progressive or State Farm.
  1. Notify your insurance company even if you plan to file with the towing company first. They can provide backup coverage.
  1. Get repair estimates from at least two licensed mechanics. Use shops familiar with insurance claims.
  1. Keep all receipts for rental cars, additional towing, or storage fees caused by the damage.

!tow truck loading car Photo: Pexels

What It Might Cost

Chicago towing companies typically pay for:

  • All repair costs for damage they caused
  • Rental car while your vehicle is being repaired
  • Diminished value if your car's worth dropped due to damage
  • Additional towing to a repair shop

Your deductible may apply if you file through your own insurance first.

!roadside assistance highway Photo: Pexels

Stay Safe

  • Never sign anything admitting fault or limiting the towing company's liability
  • Don't accept cash settlements on the spot without getting estimates first
  • Keep damaged parts if the tow company requests them for inspection
  • File complaints with the Illinois Commerce Commission if the company won't cooperate
  • Consider hiring an attorney for damages over $5,000 or if the company denies obvious liability

Need roadside help? Visit Tow With The Flow for real answers when your car breaks down.

Need the full guide? Read the original article on Tow With The Flow.

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