Tipping Etiquette: Should You Tip A Tow Truck Driver?

Posted on: 11 March 2015

The world of tipping etiquette is confusing at best. It can be difficult to know who to tip, why, and how much. While everyone knows that tipping a waiter is customary, other professions do not have a clear-cut expectation—and that can make it even more confusing.

Should You Tip a Tow Truck Driver?

Put simply: yes.

A tow truck driver is doing a service for you. They are driving several miles to pick up your car and take it to another location. Sometimes, the driver may also take you home or to another secure location. Although the driver is paid for this service, they still deserve a tip—because their services affect you directly.

How Much Should You Tip a Tow Truck Driver?

The tricky part of tipping a tow truck driver is determining how much to tip. If you has your insurance company, they will likely tell you any amount is fine—they may even tell you that you do not need to tip. However, it is always best to tip when someone is doing a service for you.

In the case of a tow truck driver, consider tipping at least five dollars. If the driver has to drive more than 25-miles, offer a larger tip up to 20 dollars. You may also want to increase your tip amount if the driver takes you home or offers extras free of charge.

Why You Should Tip a Tow Truck Driver

You may be wondering why you should tip a tow truck driver. If you are still not convinced these professionals deserve a tip, here are four great reasons to reconsider:

  1. The Service Affects You: The tow truck driver offers a service that directly affects you. They come, load up your car, and take it to a safe location. This helps keep your vehicle safe until you can get it fixed—and that is priceless.
  2. The Professional Goes Above and Beyond: If the driver offers to take you home or to another secure location for free, they deserve a tip. This is usually not included in towing services and is an extra service, so give a tip.
  3. To Show Gratitude: If you are thankful for the service, show it by giving a tip. Even if it is a small tip, it is a great way to say "thank you," and show your appreciation.
  4. Ensures Great Service: Tipping a professional ensures quality service each time you need a tow. Even if you don't plan on using a towing service again, it doesn't mean it won't happen. Tipping the professional will ensure that your next towing service will be quick, pleasant, and maybe even more affordable.

These are just four reasons you should consider tipping your towing service professional. Even if it seems silly, tipping etiquette exists for a reason: to show service professionals that you appreciate their hard work.

In the end, while it may not be required to tip a tow truck driver; it is a nice thing to do. So if you have a few extra dollars, tip the driver for your next towing service. Talk to experts like R & R Towing for more information.

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