Hello folks, this is Dave, owner of Reliable Guys Towing Service in Saint Louis. I’ve lived in the St. Louis area my whole life and up to this point have spent over two decades in the towing and transportation business. In that time I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly in our industry, and today, I want to shed some light on a significant issue – aggressive and sometimes misleading tactics used by some tow truck drivers.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, these predatory practices are an issue nationwide, and I can tell you first-hand that the roads of Saint Louis are no exception.
Let’s learn more so you can protect yourself and loved ones on the roadways.
Understanding the Motivations
Some tow truck operators, often referred to as “chasers,” listen to police scanners and rush to accident scenes, hoping to cash in on someone else’s misfortune. They might pressure you at a vulnerable moment to get your car towed, then hit you with inflated charges.
The aggressive and misleading tactics used by theses tow truck operators and companies can be traced back to the profitable nature of the auto repair business, and relationships they have with other service providers:
- Lucrative Business: Towing a vehicle from a collision scene can be quite profitable. In fact, it can be worth $600 to $800. This lucrative aspect of the business sometimes leads to aggressive competition among tow truck drivers, some of whom may resort to unscrupulous tactics to get a piece of the pie.
- Misleading Practices: Some tow truck drivers have relationships with auto body or repair businesses. In some cases, they might even own these businesses themselves. They often use aggressive tactics to persuade accident victims to use these services. Some tow truck drivers may even receive kickbacks from auto body shops for bringing them business, which can range from $500 to $1000.
These practices are not only unethical but can also put a financial burden on car owners who are already dealing with the stress of a vehicle accident or breakdown. It’s important to be aware of these tactics and know how to protect yourself.
Spotting the Red Flags
Here are some warning signs:
- Unsolicited Arrival: If a tow truck shows up at an accident scene uninvited, be wary. In many states, including Missouri, it’s illegal for a tow truck to arrive at an accident scene unless called by the police or one of the parties involved.
- High-Pressure Tactics: If a tow truck operator is pressuring you to make a quick decision or refusing to fully answer your questions, these are red flags.
- Lack of Clear Pricing: A reputable towing company should be straightforward about their pricing. If they’re evasive about costs or if the rate seems too good to be true, proceed with caution.
Protecting Yourself
So, how can you protect yourself? Here are some tips:
- Know Your Rights: In Missouri, you have the right to choose your towing company at an accident scene. You’re not obligated to go with the first company that shows up.
- Do Your Research: Having the contact information for a trusted towing company, like Reliable Guys Towing Service, can save you stress in an emergency.
- Ask Questions: Ask about pricing upfront. At Reliable Guys Towing, we’re transparent about our costs to ensure no surprises later.
- Document Everything: Keep records of all interactions and transactions related to your tow.
Why Choose Reliable Guys Towing Service
At Reliable Guys Towing Service, we’ve built our reputation on integrity, transparency, and excellent service. We’ve been a part of the St. Louis community for over 20 years, and we care about our neighbors.
Whether it’s a standard transportation request, or an accident on the highway, we’re committed to providing reliable, professional towing services without any high-pressure tactics or hidden fees. We’re here to help you, not take advantage of you in a difficult situation. If you ever find yourself in need of a tow, you can reach us at (314) 325-1016.
In this industry, as in life, not all that glitters is gold. But with knowledge, vigilance, and a reliable partner like Reliable Guys Towing Service, you can avoid the pitfalls and ensure you’re getting fair, honest service.
