Across the world, tow truck companies are an essential service for drivers. Often companies who operate this business are professional, trustworthy, and reliable as well. But with the increased demand for towing companies, the ratio of the scams has increased as well so, what about the rest of the companies? Being stranded on the side of the road, waiting for roadside assistance, and in need of falling prey to a scammer is the biggest nightmare. After an unexpected breakdown of a vehicle, you are alone with your vehicle and already don't have anyone around you to help you, then the top scammer company will make the situation worse and more frustrating for you.
It's the biggest miracle to find a reliable and professional towing company in need. But still, you have to be aware of the scams and frauds by towing companies. You are already in a helpless situation because of the sudden breakdown of the vehicle, they might take advantage of your situation. Now the question is how to avoid them or protect yourself from these scammers, right? In this blog post, we mention some scams of the towing companies before accepting or getting any help from a towing company, you should watch out for them.
Common Towing Scams
Have Bad Customer Reviews
Before hiring any towing company it's mandatory to check the reviews of their past customers. In today's technological world, the internet gives you the facility to research a particular towing company according to its customer reviews. In case the company has bad reviews then it's clear that they won’t provide quality services. Also, those companies who have bad reputations might pretend to be a partner with your insurance company, they will take information from you, later on, will use that information to scam you. Because if a company is reputable they will never ask for any kind of this information from you.
Might Cost Hidden Charges
If the company offers very low towing costs as compared to other companies, they might add other charges when the towing procedure is done. Because at the time of payment settlement, some towing companies did not disclose their payment plan. Like, if the company offers below $70, they could be spiking the price in other areas. They might charge extra when it's the night because their payments depend on several things, might add $3-$5 per kilometer according to weather conditions, the time of day, the type of vehicle, or road conditions. Not only this, they will also add some hidden charges for towing per kilometer, storage, spare parts, and more. Whereas, some towing companies also add the rent of dollies and special equipment used for the towing, to the customer's bill.
Beware Of Chase Drivers
Those types of drivers are known as “chasers” who are breaking municipal laws by coercing you to favor a shop if unsolicited. To get a commission fee, towing drivers sometimes suggest a local repair shop or storage garage to the customers, keeping in mind this is clearly illegal.
With this, you might face a big loss if your insurance company may not work with those shops because then you have to pay the amount out of pocket, in case you take any service from there. When you don't have any idea related to your car problem it might cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars even for a minor breakdown too.
Tips To Avoid Towing Scams
After getting information regarding the scams and frauds of a towing company, now another important thing is to share some tips to avoid these towing scams.
Speak To Your Insurance Company
Before enlisting any towing or roadside assistance service and asking for help from them, it's better to speak to a representative at your insurance company. They will not only inform you of your level of coverage but also depending on your situation provide reasonable rates. If you are carrying collision insurance it will cover your towing and repair costs. In attaining roadside assistance and ensuring that you work with a reputable towing company, the insurance company will also provide the next steps.
Check The License Number Of Truck
Municipal numbers are issued to tow trucks by some large municipalities, they also told them to display it. To identify the car towing company and confirm its legitimacy, you can also check these license numbers. For the future record, you can keep it safe as well.
Other Important Steps
- Collect all the paperwork and keep a printed invoice that includes any applicable fees and services.
- Before signing the towing documents, read them thoroughly.
- Ask for any hidden costs before taking service or transferring the payment.
- In case you don’t find the towing company to be legitimate, call the police.
- Avoid unsolicited services.
- Without your permission, don’t let the towing company take your vehicle.
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