Quick Answer: You typically pay for snow ditch towing yourself unless you have roadside assistance coverage or comprehensive insurance. Costs range from $75-300 depending on location, equipment needed, and how stuck you are. Some insurance policies cover weather-related incidents.
What To Do
Stay in your vehicle if it’s safe and running. Turn on hazard lights immediately.
Call for help in this order:
- Your roadside assistance provider (AAA, insurance company, credit card company)
- Local towing company if no coverage
- 911 if you’re injured or in immediate danger
Take photos of your vehicle’s position, any damage, and road conditions before the tow truck arrives.
Ask about pricing upfront when calling a tow company. Get the base rate plus any additional fees explained.
Stay with your vehicle until help arrives unless it’s unsafe. Keep your phone charged.
Photo: Pexels
Who Pays for Snow Ditch Towing
You pay out of pocket if:
- No roadside assistance coverage
- Exceeded your annual coverage limit
- Policy excludes weather-related incidents
Insurance may cover it if:
- You have comprehensive coverage and the incident qualifies
- Your roadside assistance includes weather emergencies
- Another driver caused you to go off road
Roadside assistance typically covers:
- AAA membership towing (usually 3-4 calls per year)
- Credit card roadside benefits
- Auto insurance roadside add-ons
What It Might Cost
Basic pull-out: $75-150 for simple extraction with winch
Moderate situation: $150-250 for heavier equipment or longer distance
Complex recovery: $250-500+ for specialized equipment, multiple vehicles, or dangerous conditions
Additional fees:
- Mileage beyond included distance: $3-7 per mile
- After-hours service: 25-50% surcharge
- Waiting time: $50-100 per hour
Photo: Pexels
Stay Safe
- Never leave your vehicle in a blizzard or whiteout conditions
- Keep emergency supplies: blanket, water, flashlight, phone charger
- Don’t attempt to dig out if traffic is nearby
- Run engine periodically for heat but crack a window to prevent carbon monoxide buildup
- Make yourself visible with hazard lights, flares, or bright clothing
Need roadside help? Visit Tow With The Flow for real answers when your car breaks down.