In this situation, if you can get equipment to the scene yourself to load the logs on another truck or clean up the chips, you will save a considerable amount of money. We have had a few situations where our insureds were able to contact another logger close to the scene of the wreck, and they were able to help with the cleanup. The last issue we see that can cause a considerable expense on the towing and recovery bill is the storage cost. Some towing companies charge excessive storage fees for the unit until the towing bill is paid. We have seen charges as much as $500 a day. So, it is very important to work with your agent and carrier to try and get the vehicle out of storage as soon as possible to reduce the accumulation of storage fees.
There are certain situations where your insurance will cover towing and recovery, but there are times where it will not. First, suppose the other party is at fault. In that case, they should be responsible for your vehicle repairs and towing costs if you have physical damage on your policy. In some states, they are also required to cover cleanup costs. On a commercial policy, the thing to remember is that your liability coverage will not cover towing if you are at fault. In this instance, you would need to have physical damage coverage (comprehensive & collision) to cover the towing. How the physical damage coverage is written can determine how much the carrier will cover. Some policies written on a stated amount limit may have a limited towing expense. And some policies written on cost new limits (ACV) may not have a towing limit. Some policies will have coverage for cleanup, and some may not. It is crucial to read your policy or consult with your agent.
1ST PLACE - TECHNICAL WRITING Forestry Mutual is proud of one of our own, Brian Macanka, Loss Control Representative in North Carolina. Forest Resource Association (FRA) presented to Mr. Macanka their 2021 Regional Technical Writing Award (First Place). This award recognizes his exemplary technical writing skills in support of America's Forest Products Industry. His article, "Air Lift Landing Gear Retrofit," first ran in our Spring 2021 2nd Quarter Newsletter.
We at Forestry Mutual would like you all to help us congratulate Mr. Macanka for being recognized as an advocate and leader in our industry.
Lastly, if you find yourself with an excessive towing bill after an accident, work with your insurance company and try to get it reduced. Sometimes, a towing expert can give you an estimate on fair charges in which you could act quickly to offer to pay the towing company at a reduced rate. In certain situations, it may be necessary to hire an attorney to assist you in reducing the charges to a reasonable amount. ~FMIC Brian Macanka, Loss Control Representative, North Carolina. FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022
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