Quick answer: after a crash, ICBC may pay for towing as part of your claim, depending on your coverage and who was at fault. For a breakdown, ICBC doesn’t pay — you’d use BCAA, a roadside plan from your car maker or credit card, or pay for the tow yourself and claim it back.
Who pays for a tow in British Columbia comes down to one question: did the car stop because of a crash, or because it broke down? The answer decides which coverage applies.
Towing after a crash: ICBC
If your vehicle is damaged in a collision and you open an ICBC claim, towing and storage can be covered as part of that claim. Whether it is depends on your coverage and your share of fault:
- You have Collision coverage: towing to a repair shop or claim centre is usually handled through your claim.
- No Collision coverage and you’re fully at fault: you’re responsible for the towing and storage costs.
- No Collision coverage and you’re partly at fault: ICBC may reimburse the share you’re not responsible for.
- The other driver isn’t insured by ICBC: you may need to deal with the other driver’s insurer directly.
Storage adds up every day, so get your car to the shop or claim centre you choose quickly rather than leaving it in a storage yard. ICBC can tell you exactly what your policy covers — call them or check your claim online before you decide.
Towing after a breakdown: roadside plans
A dead battery, a failed transmission or a flat tire isn’t an insurance claim, so ICBC Basic doesn’t cover the tow. These are the usual options:
- BCAA membership. BCAA lists towing of up to 5 km per call on its Basic plan and up to 160 km on Plus. Premier includes one tow of up to 320 km or three tows of up to 160 km. Each plan allows up to four roadside calls a year. Check your plan, because the limits matter: a 5 km tow won’t get most Richmond drivers to their own mechanic.
- Manufacturer roadside assistance. Many new cars and EVs come with roadside help for the warranty period.
- Credit card or optional insurance add-ons. Some cards and policies include towing. Read the terms for distance limits.
- Pay directly. If you don’t have a plan, or it won’t cover the distance you need, you pay the towing company and keep the receipt.
How to claim a tow back
Many drivers find it faster to call a local company, pay at drop-off and claim the cost back. If you do that:
- Ask for the total price before the truck is dispatched.
- Get an itemized receipt showing the date, pickup and drop-off addresses, distance and GST.
- Send it to ICBC, BCAA or your plan provider with your claim or membership number.
At City Tow Truck, every job comes with an itemized, emailed receipt for exactly this reason. See how our towing rates work.
Common questions
Does ICBC pay for a tow if my car just won’t start?
No. A mechanical breakdown isn’t covered by ICBC Basic. Use a roadside plan or pay for the tow directly.
Can I choose where my car is towed after a crash?
Yes. You can choose your home, your mechanic, a body shop or an ICBC claim centre. Read more about accident towing.
Does BCAA tow EVs on a flatbed?
Ask BCAA when you call. City Tow Truck tows every vehicle on a flatbed, which is what most EV makers recommend. See EV & AWD towing.
This article is general information, not insurance advice. Coverage changes, so always confirm with ICBC or your plan provider.