You've just been involved in an accident. It's a scary time, but if you, your vehicle's passengers, and the other vehicle's occupants are safe, then the day could have been much worse. Unfortunately, an accident is usually just the beginning of a long and potentially arduous process. If your vehicle has been disabled or if you suspect that it has suffered severe damage, then towing is the first step in that process. Since this can be such a stressful and confusing time, it is essential to know what to do so you can approach the situation calmly. These tips will help you to get both you and your vehicle to safety as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

Don't Take Chances

Many drivers would prefer to drive their own car home from the scene of an accident, but damage can often be challenging to spot. Using your car is fine if you were only involved in a minor fender-bender, and it is clear that there is no damage, but if in doubt, always err on the side of caution. There is still the potential for hidden damage that can be made worse by driving, and it can sometimes be tough to make insurance claims against damage caused as the result of post-accident usage.

Rely on Roadside Assistance

If you are in an area that is unfamiliar to you and you have a roadside assistance problem, then rely on them to find you a nearby towing company. Roadside assistance companies keep dedicated lists of trustworthy operators so that you know your car will be in safe hands. Calling up your assistance program is also often faster than directly calling a local towing company, as well.

Get Your Car Off the Road Fast

In most cities, the police will have to bring their own wrecker if your car is stuck on the side of the road for too long. Get your vehicle to the side of the road if you can. If you can't, call a tow truck as soon as possible. Police wreckers are often more expensive, and you may not have a choice about the towing location. Most police departments will be happy to allow you to arrange towing yourself if a truck is already on the way by the time they show up on the scene.

Tow Home If In Doubt

One of the most stressful parts of dealing with a tow after an accident is deciding where to bring your car. If you don't have a body shop or mechanic in mind, then have your vehicle towed to your house and arrange for a second tow later. Many shops charge storage fees, so bringing your car somewhere that you are unfamiliar with or that you don't trust can potentially cost you more money in the long-run. The peace of mind that comes from having your car somewhere safe will more than make up for the extra cost of a second tow. In many cases, your insurance company will cover a tow from your house to a repair shop.

For more information, contact a tow truck company.