Does It Cost Money to Call a Tow Truck in South Florida?
Key Takeaways
Yes, calling a tow truck usually costs money unless you have coverage.
Charges vary by distance, time, type of vehicle, and type of service.
Roadside assistance through insurance, credit cards, or memberships can offset or eliminate costs.
Fort Lauderdale Towing offers fast, affordable service across South Florida with no hidden fees.
Always confirm pricing before accepting service to avoid surprise charges.
Whether you're stuck on I-95 in Fort Lauderdale, dealing with a flat tire in Sunrise, or facing an engine issue along Alligator Alley, calling a tow truck is a common solution to vehicle trouble. But many South Florida drivers ask the same essential question: Does it cost money to call a tow truck?
The answer isn't a simple yes or no. It depends on your circumstances, what kind of coverage you have, the towing company you contact, and the specific type of service you need. In this guide, we'll break down the factors that determine towing costs, provide real-world scenarios, and offer guidance for Fort Lauderdale homeowners and drivers.
When You Typically Pay for a Tow Truck
Generally, yes—calling a tow truck does cost money. However, how much and when you pay can vary depending on the following:
1. Distance and Location
Most tow companies charge based on the mileage towed. A standard base rate typically ranges from $75 to $125, with an additional $2 to $5 per mile. Expect higher rates if you're in a remote area or if traffic is particularly heavy.
2. Type of Vehicle
Heavy-duty vehicles (like RVs or work trucks) require specialized equipment, which often leads to higher charges than standard cars or motorcycles.
3. Time of Day
Late-night and holiday towing services can carry an extra surcharge.
4. Type of Tow Truck Required
Flatbed or rollback tow trucks cost more than wheel-lift tows. If your vehicle is severely damaged or requires special handling, the price increases.
5. Additional Services
Services such as:
Fuel delivery
Jump starts
Lockout assistance
Tire changes
These may incur a service fee if not included in your membership or policy.
Insurance and Roadside Assistance Coverage
Many drivers have access to roadside assistance without even realizing it. Here’s how different coverage options can help offset towing costs.
1. Auto Insurance
Some car insurance plans include towing coverage, either by default or as an optional add-on. Contact your insurer to ask if your policy includes reimbursement or direct dispatch for tows.
2. Roadside Assistance Plans
Organizations like AAA, Allstate Motor Club, or your vehicle's manufacturer (e.g., Ford Roadside Assistance) often provide towing at no cost up to a certain mileage.
3. Credit Card Perks
Certain credit cards (like Chase Sapphire or American Express) may include towing assistance as part of travel or purchase protections. Always check the fine print.
4. App-Based Services
Apps like HONK, Urgent.ly, and Blink Roadside connect you with local tow companies. These apps often show prices upfront, helping you avoid surprise costs.
Common Misconceptions About Tow Truck Costs
Myth: Calling a Tow Truck Is Free
In most cases, you’ll pay something unless you have a roadside assistance plan that explicitly covers it.
Myth: You Only Pay If They Tow the Vehicle
Many companies charge a dispatch fee just to send a truck to your location, even if towing isn't needed.
Myth: Insurance Always Covers It
Some basic insurance plans do not include towing coverage. Check before assuming.
Real Scenarios in Fort Lauderdale
Scenario 1: Flat Tire on Sunrise Blvd
Jane had a flat tire but no spare. She called a Fort Lauderdale towing company directly. They arrived within 25 minutes, changed the tire, and charged $85 for the service call.
Scenario 2: Battery Dead in Coral Springs
Marcus's battery died at Coral Square Mall. His auto insurance included roadside assistance. The insurer sent a technician who jump-started his car at no charge.
Scenario 3: Car Accident on I-595
Sara got into a fender-bender on I-595. The Fort Lauderdale police called a local tow truck. Since it was an accident, she had to pay $150 up front and later filed for reimbursement from her insurance.
How to Save Money on Towing in South Florida
1. Know Your Coverage
Call your insurance provider to verify if towing is included. If not, consider adding it.
2. Compare Before You Call
Use apps or websites to compare local Fort Lauderdale tow truck rates. Searching "cheap towing Fort Lauderdale" can help find better options.
3. Consider a Membership
Joining a program like AAA or AARP may be cheaper than paying out-of-pocket every time you need help.
4. Be Aware of Scams
Avoid $50 tow ads that sound too good to be true. Some may include hidden fees or inflated mileage charges.
5. Ask for a Quote First
Before confirming a dispatch, ask:
What's the base fee?
How much per mile?
Any surcharges?
How Fort Lauderdale Towing Works
At Fort Lauderdale Towing, we believe in clear, upfront pricing and fast response times. Here's what you can expect when you call us:
Transparent quotes with no hidden fees
Dispatch within 30 minutes or less
Services including jump starts, fuel delivery, lockouts, tire changes, and full towing
Availability across Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Lauderhill, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, and Broward County
Our experienced team uses modern flatbeds, wheel-lift trucks, and rollback equipment to ensure the safe transport of your vehicle—no matter the situation.
Cities We Serve in South Florida
Fort Lauderdale
Sunrise
Pompano Beach
Hollywood
Pembroke Pines
Plantation
Tamarac
Lauderdale Lakes
Dania Beach
Deerfield Beach
From I-95 to the Florida Turnpike and beyond, we’re ready to help.