Added on September 25, 2019  The News Wheel  Safety , scam , tow truck , tow truck driver

Tow Truck Drivers Charge Hefty Costs for Cars

If you get into an accident and need to have your car towed, you may be quick to trust the tow truck drivers that show up to help. However, as too many people have realized, not all tow truck drivers have your best interest at heart. There are a few towing companies in cities, like Chicago, that will keep your car hostage until you pay a large price.

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How towing companies can rack up your bill

If you get into an accident, it can be revealed over a scanner. Unfortunately, police are not the only ones who listen to scanners. Tow truck drivers also monitor scanners and could arrive at the sight of an accident after the police leave.

Rogue tow truck companies could then try to convince you to turn your car over to them. Once they have your car, either you or your insurance company could have to pay thousands of dollars to have your car returned.

This problem is rampant in cities where police officers don’t call tow trucks for people who get into crashes, like in Chicago. Meanwhile, police can call tow trucks in cities, like Philadelphia, New York City, and Los Angeles, diminishing the issue.

If you’re in need of a tow truck, be sure to call a reputable tow truck company yourself. If a tow truck driver shows up even though you didn’t call for one, you should be absolutely certain that AAA or your insurance company sent the driver. It’s also a good idea to call the police if a tow driver harasses you.

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While there are plenty of great towing companies available, it’s important to stay informed and be on the lookout for rogue tow truck drivers.

News Source: CBS Chicago