If another driver caused the crash, their insurance or your own insurer will usually pay for the tow and storage. If not, you may need to cover the cost yourself. Let’s walk through how it works, what you should do, and how D&S Towing & Recovery can help.
When Someone Else Is At Fault
If you’re not at fault, the other driver’s liability insurance (or their insurer) often pays for the tow and storage.
- You call your insurer and tell them what happened.
- You give them the claim number (if available) and receipts for towing or storage.
- The towing firm sends the invoice to the insurer.
- This means you don’t have to pay up-front for the tow if you did everything by the book.
When You Might Pay
You may have to cover the cost if:
- You caused the accident.
- The other driver has no insurance.
- Your policy doesn’t include towing or storage.
- The vehicle is impounded by police or a court, and you must pay to get it back.
- In these cases, you pay first, submit receipts, and hope your insurer reimburses you (if your plan allows it).
“Insurance covered the tow, storage, repair… but we still faced the deductible since the driver was uninsured.”
What Counts as “Reasonable” Towing & Storage
In British Columbia, the insurer ICBC publishes rate schedules for towing and storage when you have an authorized claim.
For example:
- Light-duty tow: about $71-$83 base (first 6 km) for approved claims.
- Storage fees vary depending on lot, indoor vs outdoor, location, and vehicle type.
- If the towing or storage bill is way above normal, you can challenge it.
How to Minimize & Avoid High Storage Costs
- Call your insurer right away and open a claim.
- Ask the towing company to take your vehicle to a shop approved by your insurer or where you choose.
- Bring proof of fault (police report) if the other driver caused the crash.
- Keep all receipts; don’t let extra days of storage sneak up.
“Older dad got in an accident… tow driver said city will charge $50-60 a day, but then it balloons. Avoid those vultures.”
- At the scene, ask: who decided the tow? Which yard are they taking it to? What are the storage rates?
What to Do Right After the Crash
- Don’t move the vehicle unless safe to do so. Call for help.
- Take photos of damage, location, other driver’s info.
- Call D&S Towing & Recovery at (250) 682-7112 — we’re licensed, insured, and ready 24/7.
- Tell your insurer about the tow. Ask about storage coverage.
- If possible, specify where you want your vehicle sent (repair shop you trust).
- When you get the bill, make sure it’s itemized: tow cost, storage days, etc.
Why Use D&S Towing & Recovery in Kamloops
- We respond 24/7—anytime you’re stuck on a Kamloops road or highway.
- We coordinate with insurers and can help prevent long storage stays.
- We serve all sizes of vehicles, from sedans to heavy trucks.
- We work to move your vehicle swiftly and safely so you avoid extra storage costs.
Call us now and we’ll help you sort out the tow, pick-up, and drop-off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will ICBC pay for my towing and storage?
If you made a claim through ICBC and the accident is covered, yes — tow and storage are covered under an authorized claim.
What if I don’t have collision coverage?
Then you may be responsible for the costs unless the other driver is clearly at fault and their insurer accepts liability.
How long can storage go on before I’m charged lots?
Storage keeps adding up daily. The faster you act, the better.
Can a tow company hold my car hostage until I pay?
Yes—some unscrupulous firms do this. Always review the invoice, check your rights, and ask for help if you’re unsure.
Final Thoughts
After an accident, the last thing you want is a surprise forking out of your wallet for towing and storage. If you’re in Kamloops and need help, call D&S Towing & Recovery at (250) 682-7112. We’ll get your vehicle moved, help you log the claim, and aim to reduce your wait and fees. You’re not alone—we’ve got your back.