After a car accident, one of the first questions you might ask yourself is, “Can I drive my car, or do I need a towing service?” This decision is crucial for your safety and legal compliance. Let’s explore when you might need a towing service and what steps to take after an accident.
How Can You Tell If Your Car Needs Towing?
Your car needs towing if the engine won’t start, there’s loud or unusual noise, visible damage like a flat tyre or leaking fluids, overheating, warning lights indicating serious issues, or difficulty in controlling the vehicle such as steering or brake problems. In these cases, it’s safest to tow your car to a mechanic.
Below is a more comprehensive list:
| Issue | Why It Requires Towing |
| Smashed windows or windshield | Compromises structural integrity; exposes interior to elements |
| Broken side mirrors | Reduces visibility; illegal to drive without in most areas |
| Damaged suspension, steering, or braking systems | Affects vehicle control and handling |
| Oil leaks | Can cause engine seizure; environmental hazard |
| Significant body damage | May affect structural integrity or vehicle systems |
| Non-functioning headlights or taillights | Illegal to drive; reduces visibility |
| Damaged seats or seatbelts | Compromises occupant safety |
| Deployed airbags | Indicates severe impact; blocks driver’s view |
| Damaged boot that won’t open or close | May allow items to fall onto road; security risk |
| Fumes entering the vehicle | Indicates potential fire or exhaust system damage |
| Doors that won’t open or close properly | Compromises occupant safety; may open while driving |
| Any damage that makes the vehicle unsafe to drive | Catch-all for severe damage not otherwise specified |
If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to call a towing service rather than attempt to drive.
What Does It Mean for a Car to Be Roadworthy?
Understanding what makes a car roadworthy can help you decide if you need a towing service. A roadworthy vehicle:
- Is in suitable operating condition
- Meets accepted standards for safe driving
- Has all essential systems (brakes, steering, lights) functioning properly
- Doesn’t pose safety risks to the driver, passengers, or other road users
- Meets environmental standards (e.g., emissions)
If your car meets these criteria after an accident, you may be able to drive it without needing a towing service. However, if you’re unsure, it’s always safer to call for a tow.
When Should You Call a Towing Service?
If you’re still unsure about whether to call a towing service, ask yourself these questions:
- Can I operate all essential controls safely?
- Are all my lights working?
- Is there any fluid leaking from the car?
- Do I feel safe driving this vehicle?
If you answer “no” to any of these questions, it’s time to call a towing service. Remember, it’s illegal to drive an unroadworthy vehicle, so when in doubt, opt for a tow.
What Should You Know About Towing Services in Australia?
Towing services in Australia can vary significantly by state, which can be confusing if you’re in an unfamiliar area when an accident occurs. Let’s break down some key points to help you navigate this situation:
How Do Towing Regulations Differ Across States?
Each state in Australia has its own set of rules governing tow truck operations:
- New South Wales (NSW): The state has strict regulations under the Tow Truck Industry Act. Tow truck drivers must be licensed, and there are caps on towing and storage fees.
- Victoria: Accident towing is heavily regulated. Only authorised operators can attend accident scenes, and fees are set by the government.
- Queensland: The towing industry is regulated under the Tow Truck Act, with licensed operators and set maximum fees for accident towing.
- Western Australia: There’s less regulation here. Towing services are not licensed, and fees are not controlled by the government.
- South Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory, and Australian Capital Territory: These areas have varying levels of regulation, generally less strict than NSW, Victoria, or Queensland.
When Do You Need to Use an Authorised Towing Service?
In some states, you’re required to use authorized towing services for accident tows:
- In Victoria, only tow trucks authorised by VicRoads can attend accident scenes.
- NSW requires tow truck drivers to be licensed and certified.
- Queensland also mandates licenses for accident towing.
Always check if the tow truck operator is authorised before agreeing to their service.
What Rights Do You Have When Using a Towing Service?
Knowing your rights can protect you from potential overcharging or scams:
- Right to choose: In most cases, you have the right to choose which tow truck service you use (except in Victoria for accident tows).
- Right to information: Tow truck drivers should provide you with a clear quote and information about where your vehicle will be taken.
- Right to your possessions: You should be allowed to remove personal belongings from your vehicle before it’s towed.
- Right to complain: If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly, you can complain to your state’s consumer protection agency.
What Practical Tips Should You Remember When Dealing with Towing Services?
- Always get a written quote before agreeing to a tow.
- Ensure you know where your car is being taken.
- Don’t sign blank or incomplete documents.
- Take photos of your car before it’s towed to document its condition.
- If possible, research local towing companies in advance and save their numbers in your phone.
How Can You Prepare for Potential Towing Situations?
- Familiarise yourself with your area’s towing regulations.
- Keep emergency contact numbers, including those of reputable towing services, in your vehicle.
- Understand your insurance policy – some offer roadside assistance that includes towing.
- Consider joining a motorist organisation that offers towing services as part of their membership.
Remember, in the stressful aftermath of an accident, knowing your rights and the local regulations can save you time, money, and additional headaches. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to contact your insurance provider or a legal professional for advice.
Understanding Car Towing Prices in Australia:
If you’ve ever found yourself in need of a tow truck, you might have wondered about the costs involved. Towing prices in Australia can vary significantly based on several factors, including your location, the distance of the tow, and the type of vehicle you’re driving. Let’s break down these costs to give you a clearer picture of what you might expect to pay.
How Do Towing Prices Vary Across Major Australian Cities?
Towing costs can differ substantially from one city to another. Here’s a general overview of what you might expect to pay in some of Australia’s major cities:
- Sydney: The harbour city tends to have higher towing costs, ranging from $150 to $400. This is often due to higher operating costs and traffic congestion.
- Melbourne: Towing in Melbourne is generally more affordable, with prices typically between $90 and $250.
- Brisbane: The Queensland capital sees towing prices usually fall between $100 and $350.
- Canberra: Our nation’s capital often has the most affordable towing, with prices ranging from $90 to $150.
- Perth: Expect to pay between $120 and $275 for a tow in the Western Australian capital.
- Adelaide: Towing costs in the City of Churches typically range from $100 to $250.
Remember, these are average ranges, and actual prices may vary depending on specific circumstances.
How Does Towing Distance Affect the Price?
The distance your vehicle needs to be towed is one of the most significant factors in determining the cost. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Short distances (under 10km): You might pay between $40 and $130.
- Medium distances (10km to 50km): Expect costs from $130 to $300.
- Longer distances (50km to 100km): Prices typically range from $175 to $400.
- Very long distances (over 100km): You’re looking at $400 or more.
Keep in mind that these prices can fluctuate based on factors like time of day, day of the week, and current fuel prices.
Does the Type of Vehicle Affect Towing Costs?
Yes, the size and weight of your vehicle play a significant role in determining towing costs. Here’s a general guide:
- Standard cars: Expect to pay around $95 plus $3.50 per kilometre.
- Motorcycles: Usually cheaper at about $80 plus $1 per kilometre.
- Heavy vehicles: These can cost 20% to 25% more than standard car towing rates.
What Other Factors Can Influence Towing Prices?
Several other factors can impact the final cost of your tow:
- Time of day: After-hours or holiday towing often comes with a premium.
- Accessibility: If your vehicle is in a difficult-to-reach location, this could increase the cost.
- Urgency: Emergency towing services may charge more for immediate response.
- Vehicle condition: If your car requires special handling due to damage, this could affect the price.
How Can You Manage Towing Costs?
While you can’t always avoid needing a tow, there are ways to manage the costs:
- Know your insurance coverage: Some policies include roadside assistance with towing.
- Join a roadside assistance program: These often offer towing as part of their services.
- Get multiple quotes: If time allows, call a few towing companies to compare prices.
- Understand the quote: Make sure you know what’s included to avoid surprise charges.
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Ensure you’re dealing with a reputable towing company to avoid potential issues down the road.
How Can Right2Drive Help After an Accident?
If you’re not at fault in the accident, Right2Drive may be able to assist you. Here’s how we can help:
- Arrange towing services: In most states, we can help you arrange a towing service. In Victoria, we provide guidance on how to arrange one yourself.
- Provide transportation: We can book an Uber to pick you up from the accident scene at no cost to you.
- Offer a replacement vehicle: Depending on your eligibility, we may be able to provide a like-for-like accident replacement vehicle, with costs covered by the at-fault party or their insurer.
- Deliver to the accident scene: If staff are available, we may be able to deliver an accident loan car directly to you at the scene.
Remember, your safety is paramount. If you’re ever in doubt about your car’s condition after an accident, it’s always better to call for a towing service rather than risk driving an unsafe vehicle.
Need help after an accident? Call Right2Drive on 1300 100 121 to find out how we can assist you with towing services and more.
