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Quick, low-risk steps
- Call 911 for injuries, fire, smoke, leaking fuel, or if the vehicle is in a travel lane.
- If safe, move the vehicle completely off the road and turn on hazard lights.
- Exit the vehicle on the side away from traffic and move behind a barrier or well away from the road.
- Follow police and road-authority instructions at the scene.
- Do not stand between vehicles or attempt roadside repairs in dangerous locations.
- When safe, contact a towing service and provide your exact location, vehicle condition, and any hazards.
When to Call 911 vs. Roadside Assistance
Emergency towing is needed when a vehicle poses an immediate danger to people or traffic. This includes crashes with injuries, vehicles blocking travel lanes, fires, or fuel leaks. In these cases, call 911 first. Police and fire departments will secure the scene and may arrange towing through their own rotation lists.
For non-emergency breakdowns, such as a flat tire on the shoulder of a quiet road or a dead battery in a parking lot, you can call a roadside assistance provider directly. However, if you feel unsafe at any time, do not hesitate to call 911. Your safety is the top priority.
- Call 911 if there are injuries, fire, smoke, or leaking fuel.
- Call 911 if the vehicle is in a travel lane and cannot be moved.
- Call 911 if standing outside would expose you to traffic.
- Use roadside assistance for non-emergency mechanical issues in safe locations.
- If unsure, err on the side of calling 911.
Staying Safe While Waiting for Help
If your vehicle is drivable and it is safe to do so, move it as far off the road as possible. Turn on your hazard lights immediately. If you have reflective triangles or flares, set them up only if you can do so without stepping into traffic.
Stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened if it is safe to remain there. If you must exit, do so on the side away from traffic and move to a safe location behind a guardrail or well away from the road. Never stand behind or directly in front of your vehicle, as it could be struck.
- Move the vehicle completely off the road if possible.
- Turn on hazard lights and use reflective warning devices if safe.
- Remain inside the vehicle with seatbelt fastened if it is safe.
- Exit away from traffic and move to a safe area.
- Do not attempt repairs on the roadside in dangerous conditions.
What to Expect from Emergency Towing Services
Emergency towing often involves a faster response but may come with higher costs due to the urgency and potential need for special equipment. The towing operator will assess the scene and determine the safest way to remove the vehicle. They may need to coordinate with law enforcement if the vehicle is involved in a crash or blocking a roadway.
Be prepared to provide your exact location, a description of the vehicle and its condition, and any hazards present. The towing company should give you an estimated arrival time and a clear breakdown of charges before they begin work. If you feel pressured or the situation seems unsafe, wait for police assistance.
- Expect possible higher costs for emergency response and special equipment.
- The operator will coordinate with police if needed.
- Provide exact location, vehicle description, and hazard details.
- Get an estimated arrival time and a clear cost breakdown upfront.
- Do not agree to services you are uncomfortable with; wait for police if needed.
After the Tow: Next Steps and Documentation
Once your vehicle is towed, you will need to decide where it goes. If it was involved in a crash, it may be taken to a police impound lot or a collision repair shop. Get the exact address of the destination and the towing company's contact information. Take photos of your vehicle before it is towed if possible, documenting any damage.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the incident. They can advise you on coverage for towing and storage fees. Keep all receipts and documentation from the towing company. If you believe the tow was unnecessary or the charges are excessive, you can file a complaint with local consumer protection agencies.
- Get the exact destination address and towing company contact info.
- Take photos of your vehicle before it is towed, if safe.
- Contact your insurance company to report the incident and check coverage.
- Keep all receipts and documentation.
- File a complaint with consumer protection if you suspect unfair charges.
Take this with you
Evidence and scope checklist
- Is the vehicle in a travel lane or unsafe roadside position?
- Are there injuries, fire, smoke, leaking fuel, or a crash?
- Would standing outside expose someone to traffic?
- Is the vehicle unstable, in a ditch, or near power lines?
- Did you call 911 for any of the above?
- Did you move to a safe location away from traffic?
- Did you get the towing company's name, contact, and destination address?
- Did you receive a clear cost breakdown before the tow?
- Did you document the vehicle condition with photos?
- Did you contact your insurance company?
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
Can I choose my own towing company in an emergency?
In many cases, if police are on the scene, they may use a rotation list of approved towing companies. You can request a specific company, but the police may override this for safety or efficiency. Check your local jurisdiction's rules.
Will my insurance cover emergency towing?
Coverage varies by policy. Some auto insurance policies include roadside assistance or towing coverage. Check your policy or contact your insurer to understand what is covered and any limits or deductibles.
What if I feel the towing charges are too high?
Ask for an itemized receipt and compare it to the initial quote. If you believe the charges are unfair, you can file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division or local law enforcement.
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- Move Over — It's the LawNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Roadside responder safety; follow police and road-authority instructions.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.