When you’re involved in a car accident, your mind races with questions: Am I hurt? Is the other driver okay? How badly is my car damaged? And somewhere in that whirlwind of thoughts comes another important question — Who calls the tow truck?
In cities like Anaheim, CA , where traffic is constant and accidents are an unfortunate reality, knowing the process can save you time, stress, and potentially money.

In this article, we’ll break down exactly who is responsible for calling a tow truck after an accident, how towing laws work in California, and when to rely on Accidental Towing Experts in Anaheim to make the process smooth and stress-free.

1. Immediate Priorities After an Accident

Before discussing towing responsibilities, it’s important to remember that safety always comes first . Here’s what you should do before thinking about moving your car:

• Check for injuries to yourself, passengers, and others involved.
  
• Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
  
• Move to a safe location if possible — away from moving traffic.
  
• Turn on hazard lights and set up warning triangles or flares if available.
  

Only after ensuring safety should you begin addressing the issue of your vehicle’s removal.

2. Who Typically Calls the Tow Truck?

The person or authority who calls a tow truck after an accident depends on the severity of the crash, the extent of vehicle damage, and local laws . In most cases, the responsibility falls on one of the following:

a) The Vehicle Owner or Driver

If your vehicle is undrivable, you have the right to call your own towing service. Many drivers in Anaheim prefer to choose their own trusted towing provider, like Accidental Towing Experts in Anaheim , to ensure transparent pricing and professional handling.

b) Law Enforcement Officers

In cases where:

• The accident blocks traffic
  
• There is no safe place to move the vehicle
  
• There’s a hazard from fuel leaks or broken glass
  

Police officers may call a tow truck immediately. They typically work with a rotation list of approved towing companies.

c) Insurance Companies

If you have roadside assistance coverage through your insurer, you can contact them to dispatch a tow truck. This may save you out-of-pocket expenses.

3. Anaheim, CA Accident Towing Laws

California has strict regulations to protect drivers from predatory towing practices . In Anaheim , towing after an accident is regulated under the California Vehicle Code (CVC) :

• Owner Consent Required: Unless it’s an emergency, a tow truck driver cannot remove your vehicle without your permission.
  
• Rate Transparency: Towing companies must clearly display and provide written rates before towing.
  
• Police Authorization: If your vehicle is towed without your consent, law enforcement must be involved.
  

4. Factors That Influence Who Calls the Tow Truck

Several factors can determine whether you, the police, or your insurer make the call:

5. Benefits of Calling Your Own Towing Service

When you choose your own towing company in Anaheim, you gain:

• Control over costs — avoid surprise fees.
  
• Choice of destination — take your vehicle to a repair shop you trust.
  
• Professional care — local experts handle your car with care.
  
• Faster response times — direct booking means no waiting for third-party dispatch.
  

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid After an Accident

1. Not taking photos of the scene before towing.
   
2. Letting a tow truck take your car without asking for credentials.
   
3. Forgetting to collect personal belongings from the car.
   
4. Not confirming the tow destination before the truck leaves.
   

7. What Happens After Your Car is Towed?

Once your vehicle is on the tow truck:

• You’ll receive a tow receipt with the company’s details.
  
• The car will be taken to a repair shop, storage facility, or your home.
  
• Your insurance company will be informed (if applicable).
  

8. Why Choose Local Anaheim Towing Professionals

Using a local towing company like Accidental Towing Experts in Anaheim means:

• Quicker arrival times during busy traffic hours.
  
• Knowledge of local accident-prone areas.
  
• Compliance with California towing laws.
  

9. How to Be Prepared Before an Accident Happens

Preparation can make post-accident towing stress-free:

• Save a trusted towing company’s number in your phone.
  
• Know your insurance roadside assistance details.
  
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.
  

10. Final Thoughts

When you’re in an accident in Anaheim, CA , the responsibility for calling a tow truck depends on the situation. Sometimes you call, sometimes the police do, and sometimes your insurance handles it. The most important thing is to ensure your safety, legal compliance, and that your vehicle is handled by professionals .

If you want peace of mind, having Accidental Towing Experts in Anaheim on your contact list ensures you’ll have experienced help whenever you need it.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I refuse a tow truck after an accident?
Yes, unless police deem your vehicle a hazard, you have the right to refuse.

2. How much does towing cost in Anaheim, CA?
Costs range from $75 to $250, depending on distance and service type.

3. Will insurance cover accident towing?
If you have roadside assistance or collision coverage, it often will.

4. How long does it take for a tow truck to arrive?
Typically 15–45 minutes, depending on traffic and location.

5. Can the police tow my car without my permission?
Yes, if your car is blocking traffic or is unsafe.

6. What documents should I give the tow driver?
Proof of ownership, ID, and insurance if needed.

7. Should I go with the first tow truck that arrives?
Only if you trust them and they have proper identification.

8. Can I choose where my car is towed?
Yes, you can direct it to your home or preferred repair shop.

9. What if I’m not present when my car is towed?
It will likely be taken to a police-approved impound yard.

10. Are towing fees negotiable?
Sometimes, but they must follow California’s rate regulations.

The post Who Calls The Tow Truck In An Accident? appeared first on Mondragon Towing.