Quick Answer: You’re responsible for towing costs when your car breaks down on toll roads. Highway patrol may arrange removal, but you pay the bill. Costs range $150-400 for basic towing, more for long distances or heavy vehicles. Some toll authorities have emergency programs with set rates.
What To Do
Pull over safely to the right shoulder as far as possible. Turn on hazard lights.
Call 911 or highway patrol immediately. Many toll roads prohibit unauthorized towing services for safety.
Contact your insurance or roadside assistance while waiting. AAA, insurance roadside coverage, or credit card benefits may cover costs.
Stay in your vehicle unless it’s unsafe. Exit from the side away from traffic if you must get out.
Work with authorized towing only. Highway patrol will direct you to approved operators for that stretch of road.
Get written estimates before agreeing to service. Ask about storage fees if your car goes to an impound lot.
Document everything for insurance claims: photos, receipts, incident numbers from highway patrol.
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What It Might Cost
Basic towing runs $150-250 for short distances on most toll roads. Long bridges like the Bay Area spans or Chesapeake Bay Bridge charge $300-400 minimum. Heavy vehicles or specialized equipment pushes costs to $500-800.
Storage fees add $25-50 per day if your car goes to an impound facility. Some toll authorities have contracts with specific tow companies offering flat rates, which can be cheaper than emergency roadside pricing.
Your auto insurance may cover towing under comprehensive coverage. Roadside assistance through AAA, insurance, or credit cards typically covers $100-200 of towing costs.
Photo: Pexels
Stay Safe
• Never attempt repairs on active toll roads • Don’t accept help from unauthorized towing services • Keep emergency supplies in your car: water, phone charger, reflective triangles • Know your exact location: mile markers, exit numbers, bridge names • Have your insurance and registration easily accessible
Need roadside help? Visit Tow With The Flow for real answers when your car breaks down.