Mark Anderson | January 1, 2026 | Car Accidents
Car accidents are frustrating enough without adding towing damage to the mix. Unfortunately, vehicles can be scratched, dented, or otherwise harmed during the towing process. If your car is damaged while being towed in Fort Worth, Texas, you might wonder who is responsible and how to obtain compensation.
This article explains common causes of towing damage, who may be liable, and steps to take to protect your rights.
Common Causes of Towing Damage
Towing companies must follow safety procedures to avoid harm. However, accidents happen for various reasons:
- Improper hookup: If the tow operator attaches the tow truck incorrectly, the car can shift or fall, damaging the frame, bumper, or undercarriage.
- Wrong equipment: Using the wrong type of tow truck or equipment can put stress on the vehicle. For example, towing an all‑wheel‑drive car with a hook‑and‑chain method can damage the drivetrain.
- Negligent driving: Tow truck drivers may speed, brake suddenly, or fail to secure the load. Rough handling can cause vehicles to collide with other objects or jerk off the lift.
- Mechanical failure: Equipment failure, such as a faulty winch or worn straps, can cause the car to slip or drop.
- Loading or unloading errors: Damage can occur when a vehicle is being loaded onto or unloaded from a flatbed or wheel‑lift.
Understanding these causes helps you identify whether the towing company acted negligently.
Who Is Liable for Towing Damage?
Generally, towing companies have a duty of care to handle vehicles properly. If they cause damage through negligence, they may be liable. Liability depends on several factors:
- Towing company negligence: If the operator used the wrong equipment, failed to secure the vehicle, or drove recklessly, the company may be responsible for repairs.
- Existing damage: Towing companies may not be liable for pre‑existing damage. It’s important to document the vehicle’s condition before towing to differentiate new damage from old.
- Inevitable accidents: If damage occurs due to factors outside the tow operator’s control – such as another driver crashing into the tow truck – liability may be complex and involve multiple parties.
In Texas, towing companies must carry liability insurance. They cannot waive responsibility through contracts or verbal agreements. If a tow operator damages your car, the company’s insurance may cover the repairs.
Steps To Take After Towing Damage
If your car is damaged during towing, take these steps to protect your rights:
- Inspect your vehicle: Immediately check for scratches, dents, broken parts, or mechanical issues once the car is released.
- Take photographs: Document damage from multiple angles. Include pictures of the tow truck and equipment if possible.
- Notify the towing company: Inform the company about the damage and ask for their insurance information. Be polite but firm. Request a written incident report.
- Obtain driver information: Get the tow operator’s name, the company’s name, and any license numbers. Ask for receipts and paperwork related to the tow.
- Gather witnesses: If anyone saw the damage occur, collect their names and contact information. Witness statements can support your claim.
- Contact your insurance company: Report the damage to your insurer. They may cover repairs and seek reimbursement from the towing company’s insurer.
- Get a repair estimate: Have a qualified mechanic or body shop inspect the vehicle and provide a written estimate of repair costs.
Taking swift, thorough action helps protect your claim and increases the likelihood of receiving fair compensation.
Protecting Your Vehicle During Towing
Towing companies have a responsibility to handle vehicles carefully. When a car is damaged during towing in Fort Worth, TX, the company may be liable if negligence is involved. By understanding common causes of damage, documenting your vehicle’s condition, and following the steps outlined above, you can protect your rights and seek compensation for repairs.
If disputes arise, a personal injury attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-tow condition. Reach out to Anderson Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer serving Fort Worth, Dallas, or Austin
We proudly serve Tarrant County, Dallas County, and throughout Texas.
Anderson Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth Office
1310 W El Paso St, Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 294-1900
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About the Author
Mark A. Anderson is the founder of Anderson Injury Lawyers and a Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer—an honor held by only a small percentage of Texas attorneys. He earned his law degree from Baylor University School of Law and has spent more than 20 years helping injury victims across Dallas, Fort Worth and Austin. Mark handles cases involving car accidents, truck accidents, product liability, wrongful death, catastrophic injuries, and more. Click here to view some of the successful case results Mark has achieved for his clients.
Location: Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin, Texas
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