How To Avoid Tow Truck Scams
It can be easy for tow truck scammers to take advantage of motorists who suffer a car breakdown or damage in an accident since the industry does not have strict regulations. Awareness of the tricks used by these con artists can save drivers thousands of dollars and hours of frustration. Here’s what you should know about tow truck scams.
What Is a Tow Truck Scam?
Dishonest tow truck drivers monitor police radio signals and rush to the scenes of area accidents. Before the police can arrive and sort out vehicle removal arrangements, they offer to hook up the victim’s car and take it to a repair shop. If they succeed in obtaining a signature on a tow release form from the owner of the damaged vehicle, they are free to charge any rate they please.
If the police arrive first and arrange towing services, the towing companies are limited in the amount they can charge because the service is considered a “non-consent tow.” Non-consent tows are special law-enforcement tows requested in order to clear the roadway for other vehicles. Local laws put a cap on non-consent tow charges.
Towing con artists prey on the ignorance of distressed vehicle owners and usually appear friendly and helpful. In reality, if vehicle owners agree to let the driver transport the car to their own repair shop or storage yard, they could face charges in excess of several thousand dollars, since they most likely neglected to read the fine print when they signed the release form on the side of the road at the scene of the accident.
Guidelines to Prevent Dubious Charges
Knowing your rights as a driver is essential in protecting your assets from predatory tow truck scams. First of all, if you are in an accident or experience a car breakdown, only allow police officers to arrange for towing, unless you have received service from a company in the past that you know and trust. When the police arrange the tow, only sign paperwork that is given to you directly by the officer. Do not sign any additional agreements presented by the tow truck driver. If a tow truck driver pulls up next to your car and offers his or her services, do not accept unless you specifically called that company for assistance.
Before signing any towing release form, verify the name of the towing company and make sure it matches the name on the side of the truck. Only sign a towing agreement with an itemized list of fees and expenses, with the rates clearly stated. Put your initials next to each price, and obtain a copy in case you need verification later. Do not give out any unnecessary information, including the name and phone number of your insurance company, the policy number or your personal address. Don’t let drivers pressure you into allowing your car to be towed to their repair shop. Always have your car towed to the mechanic of your choosing.
Trust Stauffer’s Towing when you require straightforward, professional service in Utah. Always beware of tow truck scams and report suspicious activity.
