Nobody plans to need a tow. Knowing your options and your rights before it happens helps you avoid overpriced or predatory towing.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
What do towing services do?
Towing companies move vehicles that cannot be driven safely after a breakdown, collision or flat tire, using flatbed or wheel-lift trucks. Roadside assistance plans from auto clubs, insurers and manufacturers often include towing up to a certain distance, plus boosts, lockout help and fuel delivery.
Ontario introduced a towing and vehicle storage certification regime, with consumer protections such as itemised invoices and price disclosure; other provinces and many municipalities also license tow operators. Check the rules where you live.
Signs you need it
- Your vehicle will not start or has broken down on the road.
- You were in a collision and the vehicle is not safe to drive.
- A flat tire you cannot change safely on a highway.
- Your vehicle is stuck in snow or a ditch.
- Your vehicle needs to go to a specific repair shop.
How much does it cost in Canada?
| Service | Typical cost range (CAD, estimate) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hook-up fee | $75 to $150 | Base charge. |
| Per-kilometre charge | $3 to $6 per km | After included distance. |
| Winching or recovery | $100 to $300+ | Snow, ditch or difficult access. |
| Daily storage | $40 to $100 per day | At the towing yard. |
Ranges are estimates from typical Canadian towing rates; municipal regulated rates apply in some cities. Prices are estimates and vary by vehicle, city, shop and parts quality; always get a written quote.
How to choose a shop
If you have roadside assistance, call your provider first. After a collision, call your insurer before agreeing to a tow if possible, and be wary of tow trucks that arrive unsolicited at accident scenes. Ask for the price in writing and decide yourself where the car goes.
Questions to ask before you book
- What is the total price, including distance and any extras?
- Are you licensed or certified where required?
- Where will my vehicle be taken, and can I choose?
- What are your storage fees?
- Do you accept my roadside assistance plan?
Roadside assistance options
Auto clubs such as CAA offer memberships with towing up to set distances, boosts, lockout service and fuel delivery. Many insurers sell roadside assistance as an optional add-on, and new vehicles often include roadside assistance during the warranty period. Credit cards sometimes include limited coverage too. Compare towing distance, number of service calls per year and whether coverage follows the driver or the vehicle.
Winter emergencies
If you are stuck in a snowstorm, stay with your vehicle, keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, run the engine only occasionally for heat and make yourself visible. An emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight and snacks makes waiting much safer.
Prepare before you need a tow
Save your roadside assistance and insurer numbers in your phone, know whether your vehicle can be flat-towed or must go on a flatbed (most all-wheel-drive and many electric vehicles require a flatbed) and keep your ownership and insurance documents in the glove box.
Frequently asked questions
Who chooses where my car is towed after an accident?
Generally you do, unless police direct the vehicle to a specific location for safety or investigation. Tell the driver where you want the car to go.
Does car insurance cover towing?
Many policies cover towing after a covered collision, and some offer roadside assistance as an option. Check your policy.
How can I avoid towing scams?
Use your roadside plan or insurer, confirm the price before the tow, get an itemised invoice and do not sign blank authorisations.
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