Watch for dishonest tow drivers after an event
If you've been in a car accident, your focus should be on safety and getting help. But unfortunately, some tow truck operators may try to take advantage of the situation by pretending to represent your insurer.
These unauthorised operators can cause delays, charge inflated fees, or even create legal challenges.
How to recognise a tow truck scam
Here are key signs to watch for:
- Be cautious when using search engines. Some scammers create websites that appear connected to insurers when they’re not. Be certain of whether a website is really your insurer and not an unauthorised company – for example, check the URL.
- Beware of cash-only operators. Requests for cash payments may indicate the operator is avoiding formal processes.
- Be alert to unsolicited tow trucks. If one arrives without being called, it may be looking for an opportunity with a distressed drivers.
The risks of using an unauthorised tow provider
While an offer of help may seem convenient, choosing the wrong tow operator can have serious consequences. If you’re at all unsure, it’s best to reach out and confirm their details with your insurer.
You don’t have to accept their assistance, even if they pressure you – especially if your car is still safely drivable.
You don’t have to accept their assistance, even if they pressure you – especially if your car is still safely drivable. Doing so many lead to a few consequences.
Losing access to your vehicle for an unknown amount of time
Scam tow truck drivers operators may tow your car to an unknown location and hold it until you pay large fees. This can stall your claim and disrupt your daily life.
You may face unexpected or inflated costs
Money is the main reason these scam tow truck operators act in this way.
These operators often don’t share pricing details until later. You may then receive high invoices for towing, storage, and inflated repairs.
Legal disputes can be time-consuming
Disputing unauthorised charges can result in legal action or complaints to regulators like the Department of Transport or your relevant Consumer Protection Authority. These matters can be lengthy and stressful, and potentially expensive to boot.
What your insurance covers with Apia
If you hold an Apia Comprehensive Car Insurance policy, we’re here to support you after an incident.
If your car is unsafe to drive or needs storage while your claim gets underway, then we’ll cover the reasonable costs 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 with Apia Comprehensive Car Insurance
To stay protected and avoid being scammed, follow these steps:
- Contact Apia as soon as possible. We’ll arrange towing through our authorised network.
- Verify the provider – ensure the tow truck operator or repairer is authorised by Apia. If you lodge online or over the phone, the tow will be arranged using one of our authorised providers.
If something feels off, or you’re unsure—give us a call. We’re always here to help you get back on track.
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Australian Pensioners Insurance Agency Pty Ltd (Apia) ABN 14 099 650 996 AR 239591 is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the product issuer. Any advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situation or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it. Please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or Policy Document available at www.apia.com.au before you make any decision regarding this product. 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.
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