You will usually hire a tow truck for two reasons – when you suffer an accident or experience a car breakdown. Both reasons will put you in the most vulnerable spot, making you the target of predatory towing services. Steer clear of towing scams by not falling for these traps:
Tow trucks that rescue you out of nowhere
Imagine your engine failing with your car unable to move an inch in the middle of the highway. Like an answered prayer, a tow truck suddenly appears to your rescue. The truck tows your car away, and the problem is solved. In the next few days, you get a bill for what seems like the most expensive repair shop, holding your car hostage until you pay unjustifiable thousands. Finally, you succumb to their demands because it’s the only way to get your car back. If you think the conundrum is over, wait until you see the new damage to your supposedly repaired car. Little did you know that this nightmare was merely dressed like a daydream. The tow truck arrived with perfect timing because they have paid spotters who report to them any breakdowns or accidents. Most do not know that these scams intentionally bring your car to repair shops that are willing to give referral commissions in exchange for inflating your bill. This story happens a lot. What you can do to outwit this scam is not allow tow trucks to help you unless you or your insurance provider called for them. This means you have the responsibility to coordinate with reputable towing Lake Worth companies to ensure that you will be assisted fair and square in dire times.
Surveilling tow trucks
Another common scamming practice is to patrol private lots and tow illegally parked cars. These towing companies usually go after vehicles that seem rich enough to afford impounding fees, but not too wealthy to sue them for damages. Some unscrupulous towing businesses go as far as monitoring low-income apartment complexes to spot violators actively. The real aim of this strategy is not to release the towed vehicle until hefty fees are paid. When you get victimized by this type of scam, it is typical for them to charge you an inflated price for storage, on top of the towing fee. The fees get even worse with the computation of weekend charges. To combat scams like this, you will need to direct your preferred tow servicing company to your trusted auto shop. You can also coordinate with your insurance provider for any recommended repair shops.
Cash only mode of payment
If you ever come across a body shop that only accepts cash payments, avoid them. By accepting only cash, they make the proceeds of illegal tows untraceable in their books, while disputable payments remain nonrefundable. Opting for check and credit card payments are the safer options.
Illegal towing is one of the most frustrating experiences a car owner will face. Instead of being passively left empty-handed, make sure you actively search for a towing company you can trust. To read more on topics like this, check out the blog category.
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