In recent years, towing and labor costs have steadily increased. While most towing companies operate fairly and honestly, the industry has experienced some predatory towing practices where companies overcharge, illegally confiscate, or prevent release of trucks or cargo, often resulting in financial issues for the trucking company.
Having a plan for how you’ll secure a tow following a vehicle breakdown or disablement can help prevent the likelihood of a headache later. Consider these best practices:
Identify and build relationships
Having preexisting relationships with reputable towing companies in your area could better position you to avoid unfair or inflated charges. Establishing agreements with a regional or national towing company can alleviate some of the stress of finding a reputable tow in a moment of need.
Be cautious of the first tow truck on the scene
Be on the lookout for tow trucks that respond quickly and unprompted. Scammers may create hazards that lead to a disablement where their services might be needed.
Notify the authorities
Notifying the police and other necessary emergency services during an accident should be routine. Local police will often know of reputable towing companies in the area for you to utilize if you do not have one in mind.
Avoid verbal agreements
Prior to consenting to a tow, get the quoted price in writing with all charges and fees clearly disclosed and itemized. This will help ensure you are not overcharged when it comes time to release your vehicle.
Incorporate disablement planning into your training
A disablement can be jarring, and a driver may not think clearly in a moment of panic. By training your drivers ahead of time and having protocols in place, you can be confident the tow will be handled appropriately. This can include coordinating tows through managers or designated employees or dispatchers.
Report suspicious activity or egregious business practices to local authorities
If you or your drivers fall victim to a predatory towing incident, report the event to local officials for support. By reporting bad actors, you help reduce and eliminate these types of operations from preying on other vulnerable motorists.
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