Accident on the highway? What to do while towing coverage comes into play

Getting into an accident is something no driver wants - but let us be real, it happens. No matter how safe you are as a driver and how much you follow the traffic rules. The situation worsens when accidents occur on busy highways like NLEX, SLEX, and EDSA. These expressways are always packed and a common sight of risks.

It is therefore important to be aware and prepared. And one of the best ways to get towing coverage and know what to do until help arrives.

Let’s get to it without any delay…

Why preparedness matters for drivers

Driving isn’t just about knowing the traffic rules - it is about following them and being prepared for anything. In a country like ours, situations like sudden downpours, reckless driving, and unpredictability are pretty common.

Being prepared allows you to avoid stress, reduce risk, and handle the situation better.

Also Read: Difference between basic car insurance and add-ons: Insights for Filipino drivers

Highway accidents: Common causes

It is a good idea to understand why accidents happen - this will help you stay safe and respond more effectively.

Top reasons for highway accidents -

• Fatigue
• Distracted driving
• Poor visibility
• Overspeeding
• Sudden lane change
• Poor road conditions

Also Read: Don’t waste money on coverage you don’t need - Here’s when to cut back

Immediate steps after an accident

Step 1: Stay calm
First things first, don’t panic — assess the situation and take deep breaths. Your passengers' safety is more important than the vehicle.

Step 2: Check for injuries
Next, quickly check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Check for visible injuries or unconsciousness; if so, act immediately.

Step 3: Call emergency services
Dial for help; this includes calling local authorities and your provider.

Calling for help: Local authorities & tow services

When involved in an accident, it is essential to contact the local authorities, as they’ll provide assistance, ensure safety, and issue a report. Next, contact your insurance agent or provider ASAP, report the incident, and request towing service.

Let us discuss what asking for towing service looks like -

Contacting: Call your car insurance provider or towing service provider immediately. It is therefore important to save their number beforehand - it saves time & effort.

Coverage: You need to understand that not all towing services are the same. Depending on the scope, free towing up to a certain distance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and emergency repairs.

Also Read: 4 Smart reasons you should avoid making small car insurance claims

Tips to share location details

The only tip is to be specific. This can be done by mentioning the exact location of the accident site. If possible, use Google Maps to share a location.

Protect yourself by preparing for a claim

Until help arrives, act wisely and start preparing to file a claim. You can do so by exchanging information with other parties & witnesses and documenting the scene. Let us elaborate -

Exchange information	Gather the following details from the other party & witnesses  Name Contact number Insurance-related details Vehicle registration
Document the scene	Use your phone to - Take photos of the involved vehicles Capture license plates  Record damage and accident scene

What to do while waiting for a tow truck?

Until help arrives, you can wait inside the car. But while doing so, ensure the doors are locked, and the seatbelt is on. In case friends/family accompany you, it is essential to keep them safe and calm - this can be done via keeping them seated, reassuring them about help arrival, and avoiding any panic talk.

We would also recommend car owners to keep stress & anxiety in control. This can be done via slow breathing, staying focused, and avoiding arguments.

A few other recommendations -

• Avoid roadside risks: Standing outside the vehicle, close to traffic, can be dangerous. It is recommended to always stay far away from moving traffic and, if available, behind guardrails.
• Stay visible at night: keep your flashlight and car hazard lights on. Wear reflective clothing, if available.
• Keep valuables secure: When stuck on the highway with your damaged car, it is essential to keep your valuables like mobile phones, wallets, laptops, and other gadgets out of plain sight.
• Move to a safe location: If the vehicle is still drivable, move it to the side and avoid blocking traffic.

Also Read: Essential facts about total loss in car insurance: A simple guide for Filipino drivers

Emergency items to carry at all times in your car

It is important to keep the following items in your car at all times: an emergency kit, essential documents, and important contact details. Also, it is a good idea to equip yourself digitally with helpful apps and tools. Check out the table for details -

Emergency kits & tools	First-aid kit Flashlight Power tank Basic tools
Documents	Driver’s license OR/CR Insurance papers
Contact	Insurance agent 24/7 hotline number  Towing service provider
Digital tools	Google maps Waze

Also Read: Car Flooding 101: What to do and when insurance will cover the damage

Towing coverage: Basic understanding

Meaning: Most commonly available as an add-on to comprehensive insurance, this coverage provides towing to the nearest garage or within a specified radius.

Types of services: Broadly speaking, there are three types of towing available: flatbed, wheel-lift, and heavy-duty/ hood-and-chain.

Insurance vs. standalone coverage: Some insurance policies include towing service, and others require a separate subscription - either as roadside assistance or towing coverage add-on.

Cost & limitation: Check the following free towing distance limit, number of services per year, and extra charges.

Also Read: Your weekend road trip insurance checklist: 10 smart steps for a stress-free drive

Tips to prevent future highway accidents

Three practices can help you prevent ending up in an accident-like situation on the road. It includes - driving safely, maintaining the vehicle well, and adopting road awareness strategies.

Safe driving practices	Vehicle maintenance tips	Road awareness strategies
Obey speed limits Follow road signals & signage Avoid distractions like using mobile phones	Regularly check - Brake fluids Tyres pressure Lights	Stay aware of - Sudden stops  Road hazards Weather change

Also Read: Top 10 questions to ask before switching your insurer - A smart & essential guide

Bottom line

Getting involved in a road accident is not easy, especially on a highway. But being mentally prepared, like knowing what to do and what mistakes to avoid, makes a huge difference. This guide is especially curated for Filipino drivers who frequently travel via the country’s busy highways. Read it thoroughly, and it’ll empower you to stay safe, handle stressful situations, and protect yourself legally.

Remember, guys, proper preparation and the right knowledge are your best defence against situations like accidents, collisions, breakdowns, etc. Also, it gives you confidence to handle things better. All you need to do is -

• Drive safe
• Stay alert
• Always be ready for the unexpected

Also Read: 7 ways the Insurance Commission keeps car insurance fair for Filipinos