When your vehicle needs to be towed, the reason why it needs towing plays a major role in determining the process, legal requirements, and overall cost. Accident towing and breakdown towing are often grouped together, but they are quite different services. Understanding these differences can help you know what to expect, avoid unnecessary stress, and ensure you’re using a licensed and reputable towing provider.

Below, we break down the key differences between accident towing and breakdown towing, including requirements, costs, and what you should look out for in each situation.

Accident Towing Requirements and Costs

Being involved in a motor vehicle accident is often unexpected and stressful. Whether it’s a minor collision or a more serious incident, the immediate priority is safety. Once everyone is safe and emergency services have been contacted if needed, the next step is arranging accident towing.

Accident towing is required when a vehicle is damaged as a result of a collision or incident and cannot be safely driven. This may include damage to steering, wheels, airbags, body panels, or the vehicle’s structural integrity.

Legal Requirements for Accident Towing

Accident towing is strictly regulated. Only licensed tow truck companies are legally permitted to tow vehicles from accident scenes. This is designed to protect vehicle owners from unqualified operators and unethical practices.

All accident tow trucks must display a valid TOW or HTT number plate, and drivers attending accident scenes must be properly accredited. In addition, any passengers in the tow truck (excluding customers) must also hold the required accreditation when attending an accident scene.

These regulations ensure that:

• Your vehicle is handled safely and professionally
• The towing process is transparent and lawful
• You are protected from inflated fees or unauthorised towing

Costs Associated With Accident Towing

Accident towing costs can vary depending on factors such as:

• Distance the vehicle needs to be towed
• Time of day or night
• Severity of the accident
• Additional services required (such as vehicle recovery or storage)

In many cases, if you are not at fault, accident towing costs are covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This can significantly reduce or completely remove out-of-pocket expenses for you.

When you call Performance Towing directly from the accident scene and you are not at fault, we can arrange a free loan car to help you stay mobile while your vehicle is being assessed or repaired. We also take care of the towing process with no upfront costs, as we bill your insurer directly. This allows you to focus on what matters most—your safety and peace of mind.

Breakdown Towing Requirements and Costs

Breakdown towing is different from accident towing and applies when your vehicle stops working due to mechanical failure rather than collision damage. Common reasons for breakdown towing include engine trouble, transmission issues, flat batteries, overheating, or electrical faults.

If your vehicle breaks down and you are not covered by roadside assistance, you can contact a reputable Perth tow truck operator to transport your vehicle to a mechanic, dealership, or another safe location.

Requirements for Breakdown Towing

Although breakdown towing is less regulated than accident towing, there are still important requirements. Tow trucks must be properly licensed, registered, and fitted with the correct number plates, including TOW or HTT plates where applicable.

Unlike accident towing, breakdown towing does not require scene accreditation for drivers and passengers, as it does not involve accident-site management. However, using a licensed operator is still essential to ensure your vehicle is towed safely and legally.

Costs Associated With Breakdown Towing

Breakdown towing costs are typically paid by the vehicle owner, unless covered by roadside assistance or a specific insurance policy. Costs may vary depending on:

• Distance of the tow
• Vehicle size and weight
• Time and location of the breakdown
• Whether specialised equipment is required

Because breakdown towing is not usually covered by insurance, it’s important to ask for a clear quote upfront and choose a reputable towing company with transparent pricing.

Key Differences Between Accident and Breakdown Towing

While both services involve transporting vehicles, the differences are significant:

• Accident towing is legally regulated and often insurance-covered
• Breakdown towing is more flexible but usually paid out-of-pocket
• Accident scenes require accredited drivers and licensed operators
• Breakdown towing focuses on convenience and mechanical transport

Understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions during stressful situations.

Professional Towing Matters

Whether you need accident towing or breakdown towing, choosing a licensed, professional towing company is crucial. A reputable operator ensures compliance with regulations, fair pricing, and proper care of your vehicle.

At Performance Towing, we aim to make vehicle towing as straightforward and stress-free as possible. If you’re involved in an accident, especially when you’re not at fault, we handle the towing process efficiently, arrange a loan car if needed, and bill insurers directly—so you don’t have to.

After all, dealing with vehicle trouble is difficult enough. Having the right towing support can make all the difference.

Why choose Performance Towing WA

When you need a tow or vehicle/machinery transport, you can count on our team to deliver fast, professional and stress-free service.

• Highly experienced, qualified operators who ensure your vehicle or machinery is handled safely and with care.
• Customer-first service, providing reliable, courteous support from your first call through to delivery.
• Comprehensive towing & transport capabilities, including breakdowns, accident recoveries, heavy-duty jobs, and transport for vehicles, caravans, RVs, machinery and equipment.
• 24/7 availability, we’re ready to help.
• Free, no-obligation quotes.
• Competitive pricing.

For a FREE quote, contact us today. Call 08 9900 9910 or complete an online quote request here.