What Happens If a Tow Truck Damages Your Car?

Colburn Law

Posted by Greg Colburn in Car Accidents on February 26, 2025

Greg Colburn

personal injury lawyer

Towing your car after an accident or breakdown is stressful enough—add damage during the process, and things can quickly become overwhelming. Whether your vehicle was scratched, dented, dropped, or mishandled, you may be wondering what happens if a tow truck damages your car and what rights you have. It’s not always clear who’s responsible or how to get the damage covered. You may face unexpected repair bills, missed work, and frustration dealing with insurance or towing companies.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most common types of towing-related damage, how to document what happened, how insurance may apply, and what steps to take if the towing company is at fault. If you’re dealing with towing-related property damage in Seattle or anywhere in Washington, Colburn Law—Accident and Injury Lawyers is here to help.

What Happens If Your Car Is Damaged While Getting Towed?

Damage during towing isn’t uncommon—and in many cases, the towing company can be held responsible. While reputable operators follow safety guidelines, mistakes still happen, often due to improper handling or failure to secure the vehicle correctly. When you notice damage, document it thoroughly and identify who may be legally at fault.

According to Seattle’s Municipal Code SMC 6.214.290, customers can file a complaint or request a hearing if a towing company causes property damage. This law protects consumers and holds towing companies accountable for their actions. 

A Step-by-Step Guide on What to Do If a Tow Truck Damages Your Car

Taking prompt and thorough action can make or break your case when dealing with tow truck damage. If you notice any damage, follow these steps straight away:

Keep a note of the damages. 

Take clear photographs or videos of your vehicle, paying special attention to the damaged areas. Take both wide-angle and close-up photographs to show the full extent of the damage.

Request a towing report or delivery receipt 

Ask the towing company for documentation that shows how your vehicle was handled throughout the process. Most companies keep detailed records, which may help clarify what happened and who may be responsible.

File a complaint 

If damage occurred on public property and the towing was police-authorized, you may file a complaint with Seattle’s Municipal Court via their designated process.

Contact your insurance company. 

Notify your insurance of the damage for the next steps in the claims process.

Seek legal assistance

When the situation escalates, a trusted accident and injury lawyer can evaluate your case, guide you through your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.

Understanding Your Insurance Policy

Insurance coverage can play a key role when your car is damaged during towing. What’s covered—and how much support you receive—will depend on:

• Comprehensive auto insurance policies often provide coverage for damages that occur during towing.
• It is possible that liability coverage will not immediately refund your charges; nonetheless, it can make the towing business or driver liable for the financial implications for which they are responsible.

Before making any claims, review the specifics of your insurance policy to understand the potential impact on your premiums and the costs associated with deductibles. 

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Colburn Law is here to help. Call 206-919-3215 to schedule your free consultation. Get the justice and compensation you deserve—serving Seattle and all of Washington!

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Determining the Tow Driver’s Liability

Could the tow truck driver be held accountable for the damage? It depends on the circumstances. If the driver was negligent or failed to adhere to established safety protocols during the tow, they may be held accountable for damaged property. An example of negligence could be using equipment that is not appropriate for the type of vehicle, driving recklessly and causing an accident, or inadequately securing the car—actions that can easily lead to preventable damage and serious liability.

Tow truck drivers must always adhere to industry safety regulations; failure to do so might result in a liability lawsuit.

Tow Companies May Be Held Liable

It is not just the driver but also the towing firm that is liable for any harm that happens during the towing process. When towing services are in operation, these companies must ensure that their staff operates with safety protocols and receive proper training. In addition, ensuring the security and efficient functioning of their towing equipment will require maintenance. 

If the damage to your car has been caused by ordinary operational negligence, inadequate staff training, or improperly maintained machinery, you may have a claim for compensation against the firm. In some instances, this may include covering further damages in addition to replacement or repair costs, depending on the seriousness of their mistake.

The Towing Company Refuses to Take Responsibility for the Damage They Caused

What happens when the towing firm denies responsibility? Some towing companies may deny responsibility to avoid covering the cost of repairs. In this case, here is what you ought to consider:

• Send a formal demand letter requesting the company to pay for the repairs.
• Include proof, like witness accounts, tow agreements, and pictures, to support your claim.
• In the Municipal Court system, you can request a hearing or file a complaint with Seattle’s review body.

You may need to court if these steps don’t help solve the problem.

Building a Strong Case Against the Tow Company

If a towing company damages your car, you must show that their negligence directly caused the damage. Start by taking clear photos of your vehicle both before and after the tow to document its condition. Eyewitness accounts can also help prove mishandling or improper towing techniques.

Keep a copy of the official towing receipt or any paperwork the company provides—it may contain valuable details. Suppose you receive repair estimates or a mechanic’s opinion linking the damage to the towing process; that can serve as strong evidence. Also, save any emails or messages from the towing company—especially if they admit fault or suggest they may be responsible.

A Seattle personal injury lawyer can help you collect this evidence, assess your options, and fight to recover full compensation. With legal support, you can hold the towing company accountable and recover your deserved financial recovery.

Get in Touch with a WA Car Accident Lawyer

Legal guidance from a trusted attorney can be essential when dealing with damage caused by a tow truck. At Colburn Law—Accident and Injury Lawyers, we hold negligent parties accountable and work to secure the compensation our clients deserve.

Based in Issaquah, our dedicated team is ready to help you understand your rights and navigate the claims process with confidence. We’re here to answer your questions, explain your options, and support you every step of the way. To schedule a free consultation, call 206-823-4953 or visit our office at 22500 SE 64th Place #200, Issaquah, WA.

Contact a Seattle WA Personal Injury Lawyer

Send Message Call Us: 206-919-3215

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