I live in California. In 2025, the “Skyline Fire” came within 2 miles of my home. I paid a specialized transport company $4,000 to emergency haul my four classic cars to safety. My house didn’t burn. When I submitted the towing bill to my insurer, they said, “Since there was no loss (fire damage), there is no claim.”
Key Takeaways
- “Preservation of Property” Clause: Most policies require you to protect property from imminent danger, but they don’t always pay for the cost of doing so unless specified.
- Wildfire Defense Services: High-end carriers (AIG/Chubb/PURE) have programs that will pick up your cars for free if you are in a threatened zone.
- Reimbursement Limits: Some policies cover “Emergency Removal” up to $500. A 4-car hauler costs way more than that.
- Timing: You must move them before the mandatory evacuation order. Once the road is closed, the trucks can’t get in.
The “Why” (The Trap): Expense vs. Loss
Standard policies indemnify you for “Direct Physical Loss.” Moving the cars prevents a loss, but the movement itself is an expense.
Unless the policy has an “Emergency Evacuation Expense” endorsement, you are technically saving the insurance company money out of your own pocket.
[IMAGE: Photo of an enclosed car hauler loading a Porsche 911 with smoke in the background]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I checked who pays for the tow truck when the fire is coming.
1. Hagerty
- Feature: “Coverage for Evacuation.”
- The Deal: They often cover a significant portion of the cost to move the vehicle if it is in an area under “imminent danger” (Civil Authority warning).
- Verdict: Excellent.
2. Chubb
- Feature: “Wildfire Defense.”
- The Deal: They don’t just pay; they send their network to do it. You have to enroll beforehand.
- Verdict: The VIP treatment.
3. State Farm / Allstate
- The Deal: Generally no coverage for the tow unless the car was actually damaged.
- Verdict: You pay the $4,000 to save your cars.
Comparison Table
| Carrier | Pays for Evacuation? | Limit |
| Standard Auto | No (Usually) | N/A |
| Hagerty | Yes | Check Limit (often reasonable costs) |
| Chubb / AIG | Yes (Service included) | High / Unlimited |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check the “Imminent Danger” Clause: Does your policy cover “Emergency Removal Expense”?
- Pre-Register: If you have Chubb or AIG, you must sign a “Right of Entry” form now, so their teams can enter your property when you aren’t there.
- Keep the Warning: Save the screenshot of the “Red Flag Warning” or “Evacuation Order” from the county. You need to prove the threat was real.
- Network: Have the number of a private transport company saved. During a fire, Uber Towing won’t work.
FAQ Section
Does this apply to hurricanes?
Yes. “named Storm” evacuation coverage exists. You usually have to move the cars before the storm warning becomes a “Watch.”
What if the transport truck crashes?
Your policy covers the car while in transit. The transporter’s insurance is primary, yours is secondary.
Can I drive them myself?
Yes, but insurance won’t pay you for your time or gas. They only reimburse professional vendors.