Start here
Quick, low-risk steps
- Call 911 if there are injuries, fire, or you're in a travel lane.
- Turn on hazard lights and stay in the vehicle if it's safe.
- Note your exact location, vehicle condition, and any damage.
- Contact a tow provider and ask for a full price breakdown.
- Confirm total cost, miles included, and equipment type before agreeing.
Homeowner paths
Choose the guide that matches the decision
Emergency Towing: What to Do When Every Second Counts
Understand when to call 911, how to stay safe roadside, and what to expect from emergency towing. Practical steps for crash, injury, and traffic situations.
Open guide →Decision guideWhat Goes Into a Tow Bill
Understand hookup, mileage, equipment, time, scene, and storage cost drivers so you can compare quotes and avoid surprises.
Open guide →Decision guideChoosing Between Flatbed and Wheel-Lift Towing for Your Vehicle
Understand flatbed and wheel-lift towing equipment, when each is used, and how to discuss options with your tow operator to protect your vehicle.
Open guide →Decision guideWhat to Do When Your Car Won't Start: Roadside Service Options
When your car won't start, learn safe roadside options including jump starts, fuel delivery, lockout help, and towing. Practical steps to get help without guessing.
Open guide →Decision guideAccident Towing Checklist: What to Do After a Crash
A practical checklist for what to do after a vehicle accident: safety, evidence, insurance, towing, and property steps. Stay calm and follow this guide.
Open guide →Decision guideResearching Indiana Private Property Towing Rules
How to find Indiana towing rules for private lots. Learn where to look, what to ask, and how to document a tow without guessing about rights or fees.
Open guide →Immediate Safety for Stranded Drivers
Your safety is the most important thing when your vehicle breaks down. If you're in a travel lane or an unsafe spot, call 911 right away. Turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you. If you can, move your vehicle to a safe place like a shoulder or parking lot, but only if it's safe to do so.
Stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on if you're near traffic. Standing outside puts you at risk. If you must exit, do so on the side away from traffic. Watch for uneven ground, ditches, or power lines. Never try to fix your car in a dangerous spot.
- Call 911 for injuries, fire, or if you're blocking traffic.
- Turn on hazard lights immediately.
- Stay in the vehicle if near moving traffic.
- Exit away from traffic if you must leave the car.
- Do not stand between vehicles or near the roadside.
Understanding Towing Costs and Quotes
Towing prices are not fixed and depend on several factors. The base or hookup charge covers the tow truck coming to you. Then there's a per-mile charge for the distance towed. Your vehicle's size and weight class matter—larger vehicles may need special equipment and cost more.
Always ask for a full breakdown before you agree to a tow. This should include the base charge, per-mile rate, any after-hours or weekend fees, and extra costs for special equipment like a flatbed or wheel-lift. Ask if there are charges for difficult access, like a ditch or garage. Get the total price in writing or confirmed by text if possible.
- Ask for the base or hookup charge.
- Confirm the per-mile rate and included miles.
- Check for extra fees: after-hours, weekends, holidays.
- Ask about special equipment costs (flatbed, wheel-lift).
- Get the total price before you authorize the tow.
Choosing the Right Tow Equipment
The type of tow truck matters for your vehicle's safety. A flatbed truck carries your car entirely on a platform, which is often safer for all-wheel-drive or luxury cars. A wheel-lift truck lifts two wheels off the ground and can be used for shorter distances or when a flatbed isn't available.
Tell the tow company about your vehicle's condition. If your keys are lost, the steering is locked, or wheels are damaged, they may need special tools. If your car is in a ditch or tight spot, recovery work may be needed. This can affect the price and equipment used.
- Flatbed towing: entire vehicle on a platform.
- Wheel-lift towing: two wheels lifted, other two roll.
- Mention if your car is all-wheel drive.
- Tell them about lost keys or steering issues.
- Ask if recovery from a ditch costs extra.
After the Tow: Storage and Next Steps
Once your vehicle is towed, it may go to a storage yard. Ask where it will be taken and if there are daily storage fees. Some companies charge storage starting immediately, while others give a grace period. Get the address and phone number of the storage facility.
Before you leave the scene, take photos of your car and the tow truck. Note the driver's name and company. If you're filing an insurance claim, your insurer may have preferred providers or specific steps. Check your policy for towing coverage, but don't assume it's included.
- Ask where your vehicle will be stored.
- Find out daily storage fees and when they start.
- Take photos of your vehicle before it's towed.
- Get the tow company's name and driver's details.
- Check your insurance policy for towing coverage.
Take this with you
Evidence and scope checklist
- Base or hookup charge
- Included and per-mile charge
- Vehicle and weight class
- Flatbed, wheel-lift, or special equipment
- Keys, wheels, and steering condition
- Garage, ditch, or recovery work
- After-hours or scene charges
- Destination and storage fees
- Estimated arrival communication
- Total authorization and cancellation policy
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
What should I do first if my car breaks down on an Indianapolis highway?
Turn on hazard lights and, if possible, move to the shoulder or a safe area. Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelt on. Call 911 if you're in a dangerous spot or blocking traffic.
How much does a tow cost in Indianapolis?
Costs vary based on distance, vehicle size, equipment, and time of day. Always ask for a full breakdown including base charge, per-mile rate, and any extra fees before you agree.
Can I choose where my car is towed?
Yes, you can usually choose the destination, but confirm with the tow company. Some may have limits on distance or preferred shops. Ask about any extra charges for longer distances.
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- Move Over — It's the LawNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Roadside responder safety; follow police and road-authority instructions.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.