What is PREDATORY Towing?
In the unfortunate event that a tractor-trailer is damaged in a vehicle accident or roadside breakdown, it may be necessary to tow or recover the vehicle from the accident site. Beware of towing and recovery firms that are predatory. Unscrupulous companies are out there, trying to take advantage of motor carriers and drivers. They approach drivers on the roadside and offer their services. The result can be expensive. If the driver or trucking firm is not careful, predators may charge outrageous prices for their services — or worse.
According to research conducted by ATRI, the American Transportation Research Institute, the most common predatory practices experienced by motor carrier and insurance companies are:
How can I protect myself from predatory towing?
Call Great West’s claim reporting hotline (800.228.8040), as soon as you can. Great West can assist you in finding a towing service that is reputable and offers a fair and reasonable rate if your vehicle breaks down on the roadside or if an accident occurs where the tractor and the trailer can be towed away. Accidents where a tow-truck cannot be attached to the truck are also covered. Great West can help with this type of accident, which may require a recovery service. Here are some additional tips:
- Never sign a bill for towing with blank spaces in the rate. Do not allow the tower to fill in the rate at a later date.
- Never sign anything until the towing company has given you a reasonable estimate.
- Keep the towing company from taking away any cargo or equipment that is not damaged.
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Ask the authorities if you can call your own towing company if the tow was not consented to.
You can also call Great West to get recommendations.
Please note that these lists are not exhaustive.
CALL TO ACTION
- Develop a procedure for reporting accidents and train staff on the changes.
This article is a courtesy from Great West Casualty Company as part of their Value-Driven(r). Company program. Value-Driven Company aims to educate and inform its insureds in order to make better decisions, create a culture of safety and manage risks more effectively. Please contact your safety representative or click below to locate an agent to learn more about the additional resources Great West Casualty Company offers its insureds.
(c) Great West Casualty Company, 2024. The material in this book is owned by Great West Casualty Company, unless otherwise stated. It may not be reproduced for business purposes without the written consent of Great West Casualty Company. The insured should attribute the use as follows: Great West Casualty Company has granted permission to use this material.
This material is only intended to provide a general overview of the subject and is provided solely for informational purposes. Great West Casualty Company is not a legal advisor to its insureds nor does it offer advice on employment issues. The subject matter is not intended as legal or employment guidance for any issues that may arise during the operations of the insureds. Legal advice should be sought from the legal counsel of the insured. Great West Casualty Company will not be liable or responsible to any person or organization for any loss, action or inaction that is alleged to have been caused directly or indirect by the information contained herein.
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