Be informed about tow drivers after an event

If you’ve had a car accident, it’s normal to feel shaken. But this is also when some tow truck drivers might try to take advantage of the situation. They may pretend to work for your insurer—even when they don’t.

These dishonest operators can cause big problems. They might delay your claim, charge extra fees, or even create legal issues.

How to spot a tow truck scam 

Here are some signs to watch for:

• Be careful when searching online for help. Some scammers make their websites look like they belong to real insurers, or make their business appear in search results for known insurers. Always check you're on the correct website – for example, check the URL.
• Don’t trust anyone asking for cash right away. This can be a sign they’re not doing things properly.
• Be cautious if a tow truck shows up without you asking. Some drivers travel in the hopes of finding an opportunity to convice people to using their service.

Why it’s risky to use an unauthorised tow truck

A tow truck that arrives out of nowhere might seem helpful — but if they’re not approved by your insurer, it can cause trouble. If you’re at all unsure, it’s best to reach out and confirm their details with your insurer.

You might not know where your car is

Scam tow trucks might take your car somewhere unknown and won’t give it back until you pay high fees. This can slow down your insurance claim and make your situation worse.

You could be hit with extra costs

These operators might not tell you the cost upfront. Later, they send big bills that include high towing, storage or repair fees.

You could end up in a legal dispute

Fighting a scam bill can take time, money and energy. It could even go to court. You may also want to consider contacting your state’s consumer protection or complaints body.

What’s covered with Suncorp Car Insurance

If you have a Suncorp Comprehensive Car Insurance policy, we’re here to help you after an accident.

IIf your car is unsafe to drive, we’ll cover the reasonable cost of:

• One tow to get your car from the scene of the incident to our nearest repairer or another location nominated by us, or
• storing your car.

What to do if you need a tow after a covered event when you’re insured withSuncorp Comprehensive Car Insurance

To stay safe and avoid scams, follow these steps:

• Make a claim with Suncorp Insurance as soon as possible. We’ll organise the tow for you.
• Verify the provider – ensure the tow truck operator or repairer is authorised by Suncorp Insurance. If you lodge online or over the phone, the tow will be arranged using one of our authorised providers.

By staying aware and following these steps, you can protect yourself from unauthorised tow operators and ensure your claim runs smoothly. If you’re ever unsure, just give us a call—we’re here to help.

Make a claim

Read more:

• Car hire scams and what to look out for
• What to do when someone hits your parked car
• Do dash cams affect your car insurance?

Insurance is issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 trading as Suncorp Insurance. Consider the Product Disclosure Statement before making a decision about this insurance. This advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situations or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it. The Target Market Determination is also available.

The information is intended to be of general nature only. Subject to any rights you may have under any law, we do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss or damage, including loss of business or profits or any other indirect loss, incurred as a result of reliance upon the information. Please make your own enquiries.