Not only are car accidents scary, but the aftermath can also be confusing, expensive, and time-consuming. One such example is illustrated by towing and storage costs. Personal injury lawyers find that most people are shocked when a towing company will not release a vehicle until all fees have been paid. This rule even applies when the car accident was not your fault.

How Is My Vehicle Towed Away?

In a car accident, there are usually two people who can direct the towing of a vehicle: you or law enforcement. If you contacted the wrecking company, their office can provide the details as to where the vehicle is being stored. If the police contacted them, then you can contact the police department for details pertaining to your car. This information should be saved for future reference during any personal injury claims.

What Happens if You Can't Afford to Pay for Storage?

When someone cannot pay for towing and storage after a car accident, the wrecking company is not required to release the vehicle back to you. If the car's fees go unpaid for a long period of time, then the wrecker is permitted to sell it at auction. Keep in mind these fees could be recuperated under a personal injury claim. Unfortunately, 14% of all Missouri drivers are uninsured, and you may be forced to pay for these fees out of pocket up front even if the accident wasn’t your fault. When people purchase automobile insurance, there are often perks and benefits that are not apparent up front or which you may have forgotten over time, so contact your insurer to see if your policy covers storage fees in this instance.

What If the Other Driver Doesn't Have Insurance?

If you were hit by another driver and your vehicle was towed, then their insurance should cover the towing and storage fees associated with the accident. An uninsured motorist accident will likely result in your needing to file a personal injury claim with your own insurer. Since Missouri residents are required to carry uninsured motorist coverage, bodily harm will be covered by the policy but not expenses related to the vehicle itself.

Determining financial responsibility after a car accident can be difficult. When working through a personal injury claim, contact the office of Kennedy, Kennedy, Robbins & Yarbro, LC. With more than 70 years of combined experience, this firm has helped guide residents of the Butler County, MO, area when they need it most. They are also well-qualified to assist with family law, real estate, and criminal defense legal needs. To schedule a consultation, call their office at (573) 686-2459 or visit their website.