* Your insurance policy: Your collision or comprehensive insurance policy likely covers towing expenses up to a certain limit. Check your policy documents. If the tow was necessary due to the accident that totaled your car, and the cost is within your policy's limits, you shouldn't have to pay. The insurance company will usually pay the towing company directly.
* Who called the tow truck: If you called the tow truck yourself, and your insurance doesn't cover it (or doesn't cover the full amount), you'll likely be responsible for the remaining cost.
* The at-fault party's insurance: If someone else caused the accident that totaled your car, their insurance company might cover the towing costs. This is dependent on their policy and the specifics of the accident.
* Police involvement: If the police were involved and ordered the tow, the situation might be different. However, your insurance would still likely be the primary recourse for payment.
In short, you should *not* have to pay if your insurance policy covers towing and the accident was the cause of the total loss. Contact your insurance company *immediately* after the accident to report the incident and arrange for towing. This will protect you from potentially unnecessary expenses. Provide them with all the information, including the towing company's invoice.
