How to Claim Towing Costs on Car Insurance in the Gold Coast: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Getting into an accident or dealing with a sudden mechanical breakdown is stressful. The last thing you want to worry about is tow truck bills. Fortunately, if you have the right car insurance policy, your towing fees are often fully covered. Here is our step-by-step guide to claiming towing costs on the Gold Coast.

1. Check Your Insurance Coverage Level

Your eligibility to claim towing costs depends heavily on your insurance policy type:

• Comprehensive Insurance: Usually covers towing costs immediately following an accident. Many policies also offer roadside assistance add-ons for breakdown towing.
• Third-Party Property: Generally does not cover towing for your own vehicle, unless you were not at fault in the accident and can claim against the other driver.
• Roadside Assistance Memberships: Separate memberships (like RACQ) often provide towing up to a set distance (e.g., 20km) in breakdown situations.

2. Document the Incident

Always take photos of the accident scene, the damage to all vehicles involved, and the location. Gather details from other drivers (names, license numbers, phone numbers, and insurer details). This makes it easier to lodge the claim later.

3. Obtain an Itemized Tow Invoice or Tow Authority

Before the tow truck driver loads your vehicle, they will ask you to sign a towing authority book. Make sure you request a copy of this form and a receipt/tax invoice. This invoice must show the pickup location, drop-off destination, and breakdown of fees.

4. Choose a Preferred Towing Provider

In Queensland, you have the right to choose your towing company. Gold Coast Towing provides direct insurance billing, meaning we can send the invoice straight to insurers like Suncorp, Allianz, NRMA, QBE, and RACQ, saving you out-of-pocket expenses.