Having a car breakdown is a situation you never want to find yourself in. You are encouraged to get towing service and roadside assistance right away. Finding a trustworthy company can be challenging because scam artists might want to take advantage of your situation. Every year, many people fall victim to emergency towing scams. Don’t let yourself be one of them!
To provide you with the least idea of these scams, here are some warning signs to watch out for when hiring someone for roadside assistance. Let this guide help you recognize a scam when you see one.
Unsolicited Towing Service
Think twice before you talk to an unmarked, unsolicited tow truck that suddenly shows up to offer you help. They are called scammer listeners who target stranded drivers. As coincidental or life-saving miracles it may seem, these “Johnny-on-the-spot” scammers will only cause you deeper trouble. They will take your vehicle and charge you with exorbitant fees for you to get it back. Never accept services for these companies and call a reputable towing company instead.
Incomplete or Inaccurate Quote
When involved in an accident or car breakdown, be wary of companies that offer extremely low rates. Chances are, they have hidden costs and charges. Always ask for the full price that includes fuel, mileage, and service fee. Most companies charge $60 to $100 for the base fee, then a per-mile fee at $3 to $5. Don’t forget to ask for a written quote before hiring them.
Missing Paperwork
Remember to get a printed invoice and complete paperwork before letting them tow your vehicle. This way, you will notice if there is anything suspicious. All the charges should be included in the invoice that will be given to you. Moreover, you should make sure that the name on the paperwork matches the tow truck’s signage. Respectfully decline the service if they fail to provide you with all the necessary documents.
Parking Lot Towing Scams
Another scam involves illegally towing your car parked on private property or a shopping center’s parking lot. They get tips from spotters who inform them if your parking ticket expires. Then, they will tow your vehicle and refuse to release them until you pay them unreasonably high fees.
When you’ve fallen victim to this scam, you will have to pay the storage fees, cost of towing, and other hidden charges.
Single-Destination Towing
Avoid working with a towing company that only tows to one location. These dishonest towing companies work with crooked body shops where you’ll be forced to pay more. If they refuse to take your car to your shop of choice, decline their service and look for a different towing company.
A reliable towing service will allow you to pick your preferred auto body shop. Never let scammers get their hands on your money and eventually ruin your day.
Tips to Fight Tow Truck Scams
- Contact your insurance company and ask for their preferred towing company and repair facility.
- Before you let them tow your vehicle, ask for a printed price list, detailed quote, and miscellaneous charges that may incur.
- Use credit cards and avoid companies that offer cash-only services. This way, you will have a record of your transaction with them.
- As much as possible, work with a towing company affiliated with an automotive roadside assistance group or association. This will reflect their reliability and reputation as a towing service.
Final Thoughts
We know that a car breakdown is stressful enough for you. Follow these tips so that you can avoid scams and fraud. Contact Allentown Towing Co for your towing and roadside assistance needs, and we will get you off the side of the road!