How to File an Insurance Claim for Towing in Manitoba

Your car is broken down on the side of Bishop Grandin Boulevard. The tow truck is on the way. As you wait, a practical question surfaces: will my insurance cover this?

The answer depends on your specific policy — and many Manitoba drivers don't find out until they're standing at the roadside. This guide walks through what coverage applies in Manitoba, what to document on the spot, and how to file a claim successfully afterward.

What Insurance Coverage Applies to Towing in Manitoba?

Manitoba's vehicle insurance system is unique in Canada because basic coverage is provided through MPI (Manitoba Public Insurance) via Autopac, with optional private top-up coverage available. For towing, the key policies to understand are:

MPI Emergency Road Service (ERS)

MPI offers Emergency Road Service as an optional add-on to your Autopac policy. ERS covers towing when your vehicle has broken down due to a mechanical failure, battery failure, flat tire, or fuel emergency. Coverage includes towing to the nearest qualified repair facility. This is not included in basic Autopac — it must be selected and purchased separately.

Collision and Comprehensive Coverage

If your vehicle was involved in an accident and needs to be towed from the scene, that tow is generally covered as part of your collision claim — subject to your deductible. The same applies if your vehicle was towed after theft recovery or a weather-related incident covered under comprehensive.

Private Roadside Assistance Plans

CAA membership, credit card roadside programs, and private insurer riders often cover towing independently of MPI. CAA Manitoba, for example, covers towing to the nearest garage up to a specified distance based on your membership tier. Check the card in your wallet — many Canadians forget they have roadside assistance through a credit card benefit.

What to Document at the Scene

Whether you're filing a claim with MPI, a private insurer, or a roadside assistance program, documentation is everything. Here's what to capture before the tow truck driver loads your vehicle:

• Photographs of your vehicle's position and condition from all four sides
• A photo of any visible damage or the reason for breakdown (flat tire, steam from engine, etc.)
• Exact location — street address, intersection, or GPS coordinates from your phone
• Time and date of the breakdown
• Tow company name, driver's name, truck number, and licence plate
• Destination where the vehicle is being taken
• Written itemized receipt from the tow driver before they leave

Steps to File a Towing Insurance Claim

Step 1: Confirm your coverage before you call

If time permits, check your MPI policy documents, credit card benefits, or CAA membership to understand what is covered and up to what amount. Knowing this upfront also helps you decide whether to proceed with a tow or explore alternatives.

Step 2: Call your insurer or roadside program's dispatch number

Many insurance programs — including MPI's ERS — require you to call their dispatch directly to authorize a tow. Calling your own tow company and seeking reimbursement afterward is allowed, but pre-authorization often results in simpler claims processing. Note the claim number you receive when you call.

Step 3: Get the tow completed and collect documentation

Once the tow is complete, ensure you have the itemized receipt. Some drivers also receive a job summary or work order number — keep this as well.

Step 4: Submit your claim

For MPI claims, file through MyMPI online or call 204-985-7000. For private insurers, contact your broker. For CAA or credit card claims, call the number on the back of your membership card. Most reimbursement claims are processed within 5–10 business days if documentation is complete.

Direct Billing vs. Reimbursement

Direct billing means the towing company invoices your insurer or roadside program directly — you pay nothing out of pocket at the scene. Reimbursement means you pay upfront and submit documentation to get your money back.

Direct billing availability depends on the relationship between the towing company and your specific insurer. Jets Towing can provide full documentation to support reimbursement claims with any insurer. When you call us at (431) 791-1122, let us know you'll be filing a claim — we'll ensure your receipt and documentation are complete and accurate.

Common Towing Claim Mistakes to Avoid

• Not having ERS on your MPI policy: Basic Autopac does not cover towing. Add ERS before you need it.
• Calling a tow company before calling your insurer's dispatch: Unauthorized tows may not be reimbursed in full.
• Losing the receipt: This is the single most common reason claims are denied. Photograph the receipt immediately.
• Not noting the vehicle's condition before the tow: If damage is discovered later, you need pre-tow photos to establish it wasn't caused during transport.
• Assuming all towing costs are covered: Most policies cover towing to the nearest qualified repair facility, not to a shop across the city or to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions