Will My AAA Reimburse Me for Storage and Tow Fees After Police Recover a Stolen Car?

When your car is stolen and the police recover it only to have a towing company impound it, the resultant fees and storage charges can be overwhelming. Many ask, Will my AAA reimburse me for these charges? The answer is complex, depending on your coverage and specific circumstances. Let's break down the process.

The Actual Situation

When your car is stolen, it’s a worst-case scenario. Fortunately, if the police recover the vehicle, it is a source of relief. However, adding to the financial burden is the charge from a private tow lot that impounded your car. A common concern is whether AAA, which typically covers accidents and vehicle issues, will reimburse you for storage and towing fees.

Understanding AAA Coverage

AAA mainly offers coverage for your vehicle under specific circumstances, such as breakdowns, dead batteries, and lockouts. While it is a valuable resource during emergencies, theft and subsequent towing by a private company are generally not covered.

The irony here is that the tow lot charges are similar to those associated with illegally parked vehicles, which remains your responsibility. If you had comprehensive coverage through another insurer, your insurance company would likely cover these towing and storage fees.

Contacting AAA

It’s crucial to initiate contact with AAA as quickly as possible. Discuss the situation and ask about the club's policies and procedures regarding tow companies and storage fees. Typically, AAA has contractual relationships with tow companies and may not be responsible if the tow company is not part of these agreements.

Involve Your Insurance Company

Reach out to your auto insurance company as well. Most insurance policies, especially those with comprehensive coverage, include provisions to cover towing and storage fees associated with a stolen car. If you do not have comprehensive coverage, you would be responsible for these out-of-pocket expenses.

Legal Action

In the event that the car thief is apprehended, you can file a civil claim for damages. Additionally, you can discuss the possibility of adding the towing and storage costs to any restitution ordered by the court.

Conclusion

While your AAA membership is invaluable for many automotive emergencies, it does not typically cover storage and towing fees when a car is stolen and then handled by a private tow company. It is essential to communicate with your insurance provider for the best course of action. Understanding and acting on the coverage details can significantly alleviate the financial burden of recovering a stolen vehicle.