Towedover

Tow Truck Company Benefits from Illegal Activity

2012-01-26T07:47:00.000-08:00

This story adds new meaning to the term crime pays..:)

KRGV.com
Reported by: Joe Augustine

Drug and human traffickers aren't alone in cashing in on smuggling operations in the Valley.

The owner of a towing company says he counts on smugglers ditching or wrecking cars to support his bottom line. Breaking the law means big business for tow truck operators in the Valley.

Lorenzo Gonzalez owns Ventura’s Towing in Pharr. He says his best customers are local police. That's where the majority of his cash flow comes from.

“Police departments, I'd say about 67 percent,” says Gonzalez.

Gonzalez says the number of police calls goes up and down. His drivers can count on a steady stream of business from Valley smugglers.

“I've gone over to the river to tow pickup trucks that they leave in the river, the ones that carry drugs,” says Gonzalez.

Every month, Ventura’s drivers tow 15 to 20 cars used for hauling drugs or illegal immigrants.

Click Here To Read The Full Story

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Ford F-350 Stealth for Sale

2012-01-19T07:07:00.000-08:00

2008 Ford F350 Stealth

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Towing and Wrecker Part: Integrated Speed Mount

2012-01-16T06:01:00.000-08:00

Integrated Speed Mount

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Overview

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Towing Parts: Wide Handle Ratchet with Chain

2012-01-11T06:08:00.000-08:00

Wide Handle Ratchet with Chain and G8 Clevis Grab Hook
SKU: 9060

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https://parts.ectts.com/index.php/wide-handle-rachet-with-chain-and-g8-clevis-grab-hook.html

Police charge Liberty man with assaulting tow driver | recordonline.com

2012-01-03T07:26:00.000-08:00

Once Again this is a reminder of one of the many dangers of being a tow truck driver.

From Times Herald Record

By Victor Whitman

LIBERTY — A Liberty man was arrested Sunday and charged with assaulting a tow truck driver.

The driver, trying to pick up a car from a second towing company, was accosted by John Harasemovech, 32, on Sullivan Avenue, police said. The driver was treated for injuries at Catskill Regional Medical Center in Harris. Harasemovech was charged with assault. He was arraigned and released on $2,000 bail.

To read the original article CLICK HERE

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2011-12-21T06:54:00.000-08:00

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Another Positive Holiday Towing Story.....

2011-12-14T06:48:00.000-08:00

Tipsy Tow aims to stop DUIs over holidays

From HelenaIR.com

By ANGELA BRANDT Independent Record | Posted: Tuesday, December 13, 2011 11:20 pm
Local law enforcement and AAA MountainWest are working together to make sure residents who imbibe a bit too much this holiday season get home safely.

For the seventh year, Operation Tipsy Tow will offer a free ride home for revelers starting Friday and running through New Year’s Day.

“We’re not telling people they can’t drink, but if you’ve been drinking, don’t drive,” Helena Police Chief Troy McGee said during a news conference at the Capitol on Tuesday morning.

Impaired drivers can call AAA’s help line, (800) AAA–HELP (222-4357) and request an Operation Tipsy Tow service from Elite Towing.

To read the full article CLICK HERE

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Postive Stories About Towing...

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

Image by Getty Images via @daylifeToo often most of the towing news is nothing but bad news. NOT HERE! I saw an inspirational story about tow trucks hauling toys to less fortunate children. Basically a line of tow trucks comes out to transport toys for tots items so they can be accrued for the holiday season. This in itself is great but it is also nice to see tow trucks featured in a positive light which is too often not the case

To read more CLICK HERE

Towing Cable: Fiber Core Wire Rope

2011-11-29T06:02:00.000-08:00

Fiber Core Wire Rope - 100' x 5/8" w/ Swivel Hook
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Towing Strap: High Quality American Made

2011-11-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

Heavy Duty Strap With Snap Hooks

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Tow Truck and Towing Parts Price Specials

2011-11-16T07:23:00.000-08:00

Great selection of tow trucks / wreckers and towing parts

go to parts.ectts.com

Clipped from: parts.ectts.com (share this clip)

Towing Trucks and Equipment November December 2011

New Tulsa ordinance will allow towing of uninsured cars

2011-11-11T06:14:00.000-08:00

From TulsaWorld.com

Image via WikipediaBy P.J. LASSEK World Staff Writer
Published: Fall 2011

An initiative is under way to amend a city ordinance that would give Tulsa police the discretion to tow un-insured vehicles that are involved in collisions or traffic violations, Mayor Dewey Bartlett announced Wednesday.

"There's nothing more frustrating than a person who is involved as an innocent victim in an automobile accident to learn that the person responsible doesn't have insurance and it's especially irritating when they drive away," Bartlett said at a news conference.

The ordinance amendment is subject to City Council approval.

"The point of the ordinance is not to tow vehicles," Bartlett said. "That's not our business. But our business is to protect citizens who are abiding by the law and to hopefully get the people who do drive in the city to have proof of insurance."

Police Chief Chuck Jordan said it is "overwhelmingly mind-boggling" that 20 percent of motorists don't have vehicle insurance.

The Tulsa World reported Wednesday that another recent national study put the figure at 23.9 percent of Oklahoma drivers without insurance in 2009.

Jordan said the goal is "to get compliance," noting that officers will not stop vehicles specifically to check for proof of insurance.

To read the full article CLICK HERE
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http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs040/1101539072269/archive/1107431075564.html

Versatile Stealth Unit for Tow Trucks and Wreckers

2011-11-08T06:49:00.000-08:00

2008 Ford F-350 Stealth Wrecker

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Tow truck plows through business - Charleston, SC | News, Sports, Weather

2011-11-03T07:54:00.000-07:00

Really Interesting towing story. It is kind of ironic that a tow truck was in a wreck and might require towing. I guess it happens

Tow truck plows through business - Charleston, SC

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Pink tow truck catching some stares, raising awareness - WNEM TV 5

2011-10-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

Pink tow truck catching some stares, raising awareness

Posted: Oct 2011 1

By Jessica Maki, TV5 Reporter

BAY COUNTY, MI (WNEM) -

From the bright pink color, to the inspirational words written across it, this tow truck for Tim's Towing and Body Shop in Linwood is sure to catch some stares.

For Matthew Ballor, the truck is not just an attention-grabber, it also serves as a reminder of what his grandmother went through with breast cancer.

"My grandma, she had a fight with breast cancer a couple years ago. We just thought it's about time to do our thing and help raise awareness for breast cancer," says Ballor of Tim's Towing and Body Shop.

Ballor and his co-workers decided the best way to raise awareness for breast cancer was to paint and design something lots of folks would see.

Anytime someone requests the pink truck or "Lady Luck" as she's been named, part of the funds will go towards the American Cancer Society.

To read the full article CLICK HERE

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Around the Towing World in Ten Seconds or Less:

2011-10-21T05:40:00.000-07:00

Here is a listing of towing and wrecker articles around the country. Never a lack of interesting stories HERE

Fiber Core Wire Rope - 100' x 5/8" w/ Swivel Hook
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Big Easy Door Tool for towers and wreckers

2011-10-21T05:34:00.000-07:00

BigEasy Door Tool
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The Need For A Better Towing Enforcement System

2011-10-18T06:12:00.000-07:00

This is a really good article link about the public contesting towing fees. It would appear that there are some unscrupulous towing companies that do abuse their position as a city contractor and illegally tow cars. There are also towing companies that are charging unauthorized fees. Both the illegal towing and the unauthorized fees are wrong. Its not good for the public or the scores of towing companies who do their job with integrity to be caught up in a situation this contentious. I think better marking of the tow zones and cameras watching the zones would solve a lot of problems

To read the full article CLICK HERE

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Image via Wikipedia

Cold shoulder: Drivers should avoid getting stuck on the side of the road

2011-10-13T09:19:00.000-07:00

By Associated Press, Published: 2011

From The Associated Press — If you spend any time behind the wheel, you know it takes one mistake, one flat tire or one erratic driver to ruin your whole day. But if something does go wrong, experts agree: Do not stop your car on the highway unless you must.Image via Wikipedia
Even for a flat tire.

“It’s hard to imagine and comprehend how fast those cars are going until you’re actually standing there hearing them,” says Lt. Scott Harrington, spokesman for the Kansas Highway Patrol in Topeka. Other drivers “are not paying attention to you . they don’t even move over.”

Highway patrol officers, tow-truck company owners, the American Automobile Association - all recommend driving a disabled vehicle off the highway whenever possible. And if it isn’t possible, pull as far as you can onto the right shoulder, into the grass if you can.

To read the full article CLICK HERE

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Thousands of bay area drivers find their cars have been towed

2011-10-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

From Abcactionnews.com
September 2011

By: Jackie Callaway

TAMPA - It happens to thousands of drivers all over the bay area. So far this year, more than 4,000 people in Hillsborough County returned to their parked vehicle to find it missing.

We are not talking about auto theft but towing.

Some companies are more aggressive than others in enforcing no-parking zones. Tow companies are regulated, but too often consumers who feel their wheels were removed in error don't know where to complain or who might be able to help them.

Image via WikipediaRachel Blunk is among those who claim the tow company made a mistake. "There were signs there that said 30-minute parking and it had not been 30 minutes," says Blunk. Her daughter stopped at a CVS, purchased an ice tea for which she says she has a receipt, then walked outside and sat on a bench to drink the tea. "She walked around to the side where her car was parked and the car had been towed," says Blunk.

Blunk's tow took place in Pinellas County, where tow operators don't have to obtain a license with the county, but they do have to abide by the local ordinance.

To read the full article CLICK HERE

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Limelight Wireless Tow Light

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Towing Parts: Dense Towing Cable

2011-10-03T05:21:00.000-07:00

Fiber Core Wire Rope - 100' x 5/8" w/ Swivel Hook
SKU: 6598

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Local towing company trains employees in hazardous waste cleanup | Nooga.com

2011-09-28T06:53:00.000-07:00

From Nooga.com
by Beverly A. Carroll Image via Wikipedia

David Hoover, an associate of Mosteller's Towing and Recovery Service, recalled an incident a few years ago when the contents of a private garbage tractor trailer spontaneously combusted.
"It was a 53-foot long trailer full of everybody's garbage," Hoover said. "It caught fire while they were transporting it on the interstate."

Hoover responded to the call along with the Chattanooga Fire Department, which doused the flames. Hoover operated the heavy equipment to clean up the wet, smoldering trash and remove the garbage truck.
It was a hazardous waste cleanup job that snarled traffic for hours and endangered everyone involved with the cleanup, Hoover recalled.

Today, when calls like that come, Hoover will be part of a team of people trained to specifically handle the scenario.

"I'm going to feel safer and everyone around me and the environment will be safer," said Hoover, describing a new partnership between Mosteller's and Hazco LLC, of Goodlettsville, Tenn.

Hazco owners Matt Church and Tyler Broadrick were in Chattanooga Saturday to train Mosteller employees on how to handle a hazardous materials cleanup job. Hazco brings the expertise, training and technology to combine with tow company owners Janie and Robert Wandell's equipment and manpower - make that "people power," with office worker Carla Catlett and tow truck driver Sarah Hamilton suiting up for the weekend training that involved wearing haz-mat suits.

"We are cross training everyone," Church said. "We want to be able to roll out on a call with a team of eight to 10 trained people within an hour."

To read the full article CLICK HERE

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Towers must display a sign or risk violence against them....

2011-09-26T05:31:00.000-07:00

I just read a story ( I put the link at the bottom) about a tow truck driver who got hit in the face with a cable box while hooking up a car. The article stated that the tow truck driver needed, by law, to have a sign that showed he was towing a car. This seems a little ridiculous...

Because of technicalities is it open season on traffic workers, towers, and other people that work in the public domain. Can the tow truck driver sue in civil court for any medical charges resulting from the cable box being thrown?

I think a dangerous pattern is being set that crime (yes cable box battery to someones face is a crime) is allowed if a technicality is violated. I think the lack of a display sign should have allowed the car driver being towed the right to sue the towing company and get his money back, it should not be a ticket to use force against a towing company operator.

http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/28867835/detail.html

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Jerr Dan rollback offers lower bed

Sturdy Jerr Dan Construction make this rollback heavy duty

This Jerr Dan rollback is equipped with a Peterbilt paccar engine

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Spacious flatbed on this jerr dan rollback

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Cameras in Chapel Hill aid tow companies - Orange County - NewsObserver.com

2011-09-19T05:44:00.000-07:00

Cameras in Chapel Hill aid tow companies

BY KATELYN FERRAL - Staff Writer

Newsobserver.com

CHAPEL HILL -- Chapel Hill may change its towing rules after an upward spike in complaints about predatory towing downtown.is a camera a tower or wreckers best friend?

Companies have been using surveillance cameras to catch illegal parkers on private business lots - a tactic towing companies call innovative, but others call predatory.

"It's a very negative experience for people," Town Manager Roger Stancil said

current town rules, passed in 2008, require tow companies to post clear, large signs about towing rules on the lot, submit a report to police 30 minutes after a car is towed and cap fees at $100.

There are no rules against using cameras on private lots.

To read the full article click here

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A city ends the use of towing for Predatory Government

2011-09-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

Maricopa police admit to towing for dollars, promise change

BY STEVEN MAYER, Californian staff writerImage via Wikipedia

MARICOPA -- The chief of police in this hardscrabble town has had a change of heart -- and policy.
But the change didn't come easy. It was accompanied by sleepless nights and a rise in blood pressure for Maricopa Police Chief Derek Merritt.

No more, he says, will cops in this city of 1,200 in western Kern County pull over motorists for hanging a necklace from their rear-view mirror, having a crack in their windshield or driving with a burned-out license plate bulb.

In the past two years, Maricopa police have stopped hundreds of motorists for these and other "equipment violations."

Merritt says, and he's not about to apologize for his officers enforcing it.

To read the full article CLICK HERE

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Wheel Straps for Towing
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E-Track Towing Straps
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Tie down systems for towing and wreckers
Strap Ratchets for towers and wreckers
V Straps for towing

The Lowest Price We Found on the Towmate Limelight $189

2011-09-07T06:50:00.000-07:00

Regular price: $225

Price for a very short time: $189

* 22" Lime Green durable PVC housing

* Recharges from 12V DC

* Lifetime warranty on electronics & LED's

* Up to 15 hours of use between charges

* 4 Pin transmitter provides approximately 1,000' range

* 90 lb. pull magnetic mount with non-scratch rubber boots included.

Offer is for a short time only...

For more information or to order click HERE

2011-08-31T06:46:00.000-07:00

Arbitrator rules Springfield owed $62,405 by former towing company

Published: Monday, July2011, 6:21

By Peter Goonan, The Republican
From Masslive.com

SPRINGFIELD – An arbitrator has ruled that the Springfield Towing Alliance, terminated by the city in 2008 and mired in a legal battle since that time, must pay the city $62,405 in outstanding fees.

City Solicitor Edward M. Pikula said the ruling from Arbitrator Mel L. Greenberg is binding on both sides, as well as a bank also owed money in the arbitration case.

The towing alliance under the corporate name CF Inc., consisting of multiple towing contractors, was initially hired by the city in 2006 for police-ordered towing and storage duties. In November of 2008, the city terminated the alliance after accusing the company of 17 significant contract violations including tardy and incomplete reports and failure to pay the city approximately $142,000 in fees.

To read the full story click HERE

Towing Product Feature : Gojak

left handed gojak for towers

right handed gojak for towers

Regular Price: $219.95

Special Price: $209.95

This is useful when pulling cars onto flatbed trucks. The Model 6200 also has a 5-degree offset pedal for extra foot-to-tire clearance. This unit is ONLY available in left and right hand options. Towing Companies Line up cars for tow hook ups. Flatbed trucks can be loaded and unloaded with ease. Great for saving space in storage lots. Perfect for front wheel or All Wheel drives. Great Tool for Repossesion Agents as well!

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Towing "Bat" Lady destined for Anger Management...

2011-08-29T07:17:00.000-07:00

It's anger management for Tiffany Nealous who used a baseball bat to dispute a towing charge

2011

By Barton Dieters of the Grand Rapids Press

BIG RAPIDS – If Tiffany Nealous can learn to manage her anger, she will avoid a nine-month sentence that resulted from a destructive temper tantrum.

The incident that was captured on video that ended up gaining the Grand Rapids woman national attention when it showed up on Tabloid TV show “Inside Edition"

Nealous became enraged because of a bill for towing her 1999 Grand Am from the scene of a 50-60 car pileup February 20 on US 131 near Morley.

It is not an outcome that sits well with business owner Charlie Weeks.

“I put 25 years into this business and in two minutes she smashes it up,” said Weeks who said he wanted at least a little jail-time for the bat woman. “She gets a slap on the wrist. Anger management, yeah, right.”

The 34-year-old used a baseball bat taken from the office wall of Weeks Auto Parts to pummel electronics, windows and other items.

to read the full article CLICK HERE

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Another Tow Truck Used to Steal Cars Story...

2011-08-25T06:29:00.000-07:00

Tow truck used to steal van

Surveillance shows tow truck with stolen vehicle

From Wavy TV-10

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - A tow truck was captured on surveillance video in Virginia Beach taking off with a stolen minivan.

According to police, the 1994 Dodge Caravan was stolen from the parking lot of 5025 Euclid Rd. on July 16

Several other vehicles have been stolen from the Witchduck and Princess Anne areas of the city. Police believe the thefts were possibly done by tow trucks.
Virginia Beach Police ask those with information to call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.
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Commentary:

Just one more thing to give towers, wrecker drivers, and tow trucks a bad name.
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Towing Story: Always take a picture

2011-08-23T07:37:00.000-07:00

I am a tad biased. I edited this article for the East Coast Truck and Trailer Newsletter and Praise GOD we got published in American Towman!

American Towman August Page 18 2011

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Towing Light Clearance Special: Federal Signal Beacon LIght

2011-08-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

LED Pulsator LED Beacon

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A polycarbonate base LED beacon.

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Flash covers the whole dome resulting in no shadows or dark spots.

10 strobe flash patterns. Its easy to change flash patterns by powering on or off with the Power Select feature.

Multi-voltage: 12-24 VDC with a max of 0.80 amps and an average of 0.35 amps.

Permanent mount in Amber with a 6.09 bolt circle and 3 mounting holes (#10 Screws). SAE J845 Class 2

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Pricing guaranteed for 5 days: while supplies last

When they say you are getting towed....they mean it

2011-08-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

Cheeburger Cheeburger Towing

From www.wdef.com

Submitted by Alisha Searl
July 2011

When cranking up the car for a family dinner, Brad Jones, says he did not know by the end of the night he would be without a car and without a lot of money.

Image via WikipediaKarenza Pentiah, Jones' Wife, adds, "We parked behind Cheeburger Cheeburger because we intended on buying my brother a burger there."

But before they placed his order there, they had dinner next door at Buffalo Wild Wings, where parking is only for employees.

Meanwhile, the man paid to monitor the lot for Cheeburger Cheeburger and two other connecting business called a tow truck, according to their records, six minutes after the Jones' parked.

Charlie Eich, owner of Cheeburger Cheeburger, says, "Essentially what happens is people continue to roll the dice. They show up, park, look around, take a chance, and they get towed.

More than 20 signs are tacked up, each explaining their zero tolerance policy, each trying to prevent cars getting towed.

To read the full article click Here
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Commentary:

With 20 signs posted and a 6 minute tolerance before towing your vehicle, I wouldn't risk parking their without a receipt from Cheeburger Cheeburger posted on my windshield with the date and time circled in big red sharpie. In fact forget that, I wouldn't even risk getting towed unless I had signed written consent by the owner that I was allowed to park there. Maybe one of the signs could read:

Its cheaper just to buy a cheeburger than to park here and go someplace else...

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Tougher DUI law requires towing of car

2011-08-09T12:18:00.000-07:00

Vehicles of those arrested will also be impounded for 12 hours

From: The Columbian.Com

By Justin Runquist Murrow News Service/The Columbian
2011

OLYMPIA— Starting today, drivers can expect to have their vehicles towed when police officers arrest them on suspicion of DUI.

A new state law requiring officers to tow and impound drunken drivers’ vehicles for 12 hours went into effect at midnight.

“This is about making sure that impaired drivers don’t return to their cars and drive again before they’ve sobered up,” State Patrol Chief John Batiste said in a statement issued by the WSP. “This isn’t about trying to punish someone for driving drunk. If they’re found guilty, that will become the court’s job.”

Legislators intended to make roads safer when they drafted the law establishing the mandatory 12-hour vehicle holding period earlier this year. WSP Sgt. JJ Gundermann said it will keep impaired drivers away from the wheel after they have been arrested.

To read the full article CLICK HERE

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Municipalities should move on establishing towing rules | islandpacket.com

2011-08-04T06:41:00.000-07:00

From Theislandpacket.com of The Beaufort Gazette

Municipalities should move on establishing towing rules

Published July 2011

Hilton Head Island and other Beaufort County municipalities should follow the county's lead on towing regulations.

In June, the county finalized reasonable rules for towing vehicles from private property without the owner's consent.

The county's ordinance sets limits on how much a tow operator charges and makes it easier and less punitively expensive for owners to get back their vehicles after they've been towed.

The push for towing regulations came from a deadly confrontation in December between a tow-truck driver and a man whose vehicle had been immobilized because it was parked on a street in Edgefield, a community that doesn't allow on-street parking because of its narrow roads.

Hilton Head officials are preparing to take up the issue, perhaps as soon as next month. Like the county, town officials should involve tow operators in the process of drafting an ordinance.

The rules should take into account operating costs for tow truck operators, but it should not allow them to exploit a captive market. When a vehicle is gone, the owner must pay up -- no matter how unreasonable the fee -- or he won't get back his vehicle.

We like the county's lower charges if an owner shows up before the vehicle is hooked up to a tow truck ($75) or before the vehicle is hauled away ($100).

And we like its prohibition against immobilizing a vehicle. Booting a vehicle does nothing to keep private streets and parking lots free of illegally parked vehicles.

To read the full article click HERE

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A New Towing Reality Show

2011-08-02T07:17:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Lopez Premieres Towing Reality Show Amongst Infidelity Rumors

J. Lo's new TV show, South Beach Tow, is premiering amongst all the drama of her split from Marc Anthony.Lopez serves as executive producer of the reality series, airing tonight at 10pm ET on truTV.

South Beach Tow gives viewers an inside look at Tremont Towing, a family business in Miami, Florida. With cars and crazy drivers taking over the city, major drama will likely brew between this family. Sound interesting to you?
to read the full article click HERE

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Has Chicago Become A Towing War Zone.....

2011-07-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

From www.nbcchicago.com

Chicago: Tops in Hostile Tows, Survey Finds

New survey of auto insurance professionals puts Windy City at top of list when it comes to skyrocketing, inconsistent towing charges and fees

July 2011
By Lisa Parker

Add this to Chicago’s long list of accomplishments: first, when it comes to the most hostile towing market.

That's according to a new survey of auto insurance professionals, which puts the Windy City at the top of the list when it comes to skyrocketing and inconsistent towing charges and fees connected to vehicle towing and storage.

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Chicago’s home state gets a dubious distinction in this survey, too: as the state most in need of legislative remedies on towing issues.

"Chicago topped the list as the city with the most hostile towing market," said Deirdre Manna, the Vice President of Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, which commissioned the survey of more than 300 companies.

The PCI survey found that consumers nationwide pay through the nose when it comes to unfair and excessive towing fees- to the tune of about 300 million dollars. In Chicago, they say, those abuses run amok.

Source: http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/illinois-tow-125846713.html#ixzz1Sf36VZfh

To read the full article Click HERE

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A bill of rights against the towing industry...

2011-07-26T05:36:00.000-07:00

From www.theindychannel.com

Towing Ordinance Could Lead To License Revocations
Mayor Pleased With Law Council Passed

NDIANAPOLIS -- A new towing ordinance passed by the City-County Council on Monday night could carry stiff penalties for towing companies that don't follow the rules.

Councilors passed the ordinance by a 25-2 vote, months after a 6News report detailing towing practices many considered to be predatory in Broad Ripple, one of Indianapolis' cultural districts.

The ordinance is basically a bill of rights for motorists, setting standards for what towing companies can and can't do, 6News' Jack Rinehart reported.

To read the full article Click Here

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Towing company accused of fraud.....

2011-07-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

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Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon says a local towing company is taking advantage of unsuspecting tourists.

from WKRG.com website

Orange Beach, Alabama

Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon says a local towing company is price gouging drivers who get towed from private parking lots. Kennon says Orange Beach Towing is charging drivers more than 200 dollars to retrieve their vehicles.

Known as "trespass towing"...the owner of a private parking lot...usually a hotel, condo or resort complex...has a car towed without the owner's consent. The charge to the owner of the car? 200 bucks. That's double what a tow would cost if your car breaks down or if you're involved in a wreck and Kennon says that's not right.

"If you tow without the owner's consent, there's got to be some type of flat rate without holding the car hostage," says Kennon. "They're essentially holding the car hostage and charging drivers whatever they want."

To read the full story click HERE

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2011-07-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

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Tower Banned in New York?......

2011-07-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

Printed in YourNabe.Com

By Joe Anuta
Thursday, July 14, 2011

A towing company criticized for using the streets of Maspeth as a private junkyard was temporarily bounced from a city program, and documents from the city Department of Buildings indicate that it should not even be operating a wrecking business at all..

American Collision, at 60-05 Flushing Ave., is no longer allowed to tow cars from accident sites on behalf of the NYPD as part of a city program, according to the city Department of Consumer Affairs, which suspended the towing company’s privileges until a hearing is conducted July 14.

The business has drawn heavy criticism for leaving banged-up autos parked along nearby residential streets, which neighbors said takes up parking spots and makes the neighborhood look bad.

“When a company has been doing what American Collision has been doing for so many years, abusing the neighborhood and turning our streets into a junkyard, they don’t deserve to be part of any city program that is funded by taxpayers,” said Bob Holden, civic leader and vocal critic of the company. DCA’s suspension came from two complaints that the company overcharged for their services, and an inspection revealed that the business did not have log books required to participate in the program on hand.

To read the full article click HERE

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2011-06-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

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2011-05-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

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Dump Mexican trucking proposal: Lawmakers

2011-05-23T08:38:00.000-07:00

A group of 44 lawmakers delivered a signed letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood yesterday demanding that the Obama Administration abandon plans to restart a controversial cross-border trucking program for Mexican motor carriers.

“The cross-border trucking program clearly puts foreign interests above our own,” said U.S. Rep. Hunter (R-CA), in a press release. “It’s bad for the American economy. It’s bad for American truckers and the entire commercial trucking industry. And it’s bad for border security. Simply put, the cross-border trucking program is a straight handout to Mexico at the expense of American jobs, taxpayer dollars and security.”

Hunter and Daniel Lipinski (D-IL) were joined by 42 other lawmakers, both Republicans and Democrats, in signing the letter. The politicians cited a number of concerns, including safety, enforcement issues, and the possibility of increased drug smuggling.

“The earlier demonstration project showed serious gaps in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) ability to properly manage the program when they failed to assure that every Mexican truck was properly inspected at the border,” the letter states. “This is critical from a safety perspective to ensure that the vehicle is being operated by a licensed driver and has completed a safety inspection. With the limited number of Mexican trucks that participated in this demonstration there is concern with the FMCSA’s ability to properly monitor a future demonstration project.”

The letter questions the use of Highway Trust Funds to pay for electronic onboard recorders (EOBRs) for Mexican trucks.

To read the full article click HERE

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2011-05-20T09:23:00.000-07:00

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Related articles

UPDATE Commenary on: Backlash to FREE EOBR's for Mexican Truckers

2011-05-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

Commentary Update

More and more Congressman and Senators are realizing the galactic stupidity in this proposal. While I don't think it will affect towing all that much its still our tax money! I personally think this issue could be one of the death nails in the Democrats coffin in 2012...we will see

From Transport Topics
3/23/2011

Sen. Mark Pryor (D-Ark.) sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood outlining his opposition to the U.S. proposal to buy electronic onboard recorders for Mexican trucks that will travel within the United States.

“I do not believe this concept is fair for U.S. carriers who are not eligible for such payments,” Pryor wrote in a letter dated Thursday.

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A Department of Transportation official said earlier this month that DOT will pay for EOBRs for Mexican trucks entering the United States under an agreement with Mexico. The program is meant to ensure drivers’ compliance with hours-of-service regulations while in the U.S.

To read the full article click HERE

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Towing and Wrecker news around the country!

2011-04-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

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Just One More Thing to Give Towers a Bad Name..

2011-04-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

By Michael Saks

Editor of Towedover

I saw this article and was shocked at what this city is doing. The City of Elgin, Illinois makes consumers who are arrested pay a $175 towing fee on top of an “administrative fee” of $500. While the administration fee is for felonies, I think there are some major things wrong with doing this.

1- Using punishment fines disguised as “Fees” violates the civil rights of the accused. They are being fined an amount that will cause financial pain. This is the judges job, not the city.

2- Its not fair to the tower, that a standard tow fee is now part of a bigger “punishment process.” In the mind of the consumer the tower and city are working together and they are being fined $675. This could hurt the business of the tow companies being used if the public views them as corrupt. The tow truck company is a business while the city is not. They have to have a good public image so they can get public business for break downs, lockouts, car starts and the like. This could threaten that

I think the government of Elgin, Illinois needs to rethink the constitutionality of this policy before they get hauled into court and are forced to pay a monstrous “administration fee” when they lose a defamation case.

Image by James Jordan via Flickr

Original article

http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20110417/news/704179935/

Jobless Claims Decline for Week | Transport Topics Online | Trucking, Freight Transportation and Logistics News

2011-04-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

From Transport Topics
4/7/2011

Initial jobless claims fell by 10,000 last week, the Labor Department reported Thursday.

New claims fell to 382,000 for the week ended Saturday, below economists’ forecasts of a drop to 385,000 from the originally reported 388,000 in the prior week, Bloomberg reported.

It was the lowest level since Feb. 26.

To read the full article click HERE

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Shots Fired Over Towing Dispute

2011-04-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

From WOWT.com

Posted: Apr 1, 2011
Reporter: Roger Hamer

Two tow truck drivers found themselves threatened at gunpoint Friday morning. After shots were fired, police made two arrests. Police say they were legally removing three cars that were parked illegally in an apartment complex lot near 38th and Farnam when three men came out and confronted them around 3:30 a.m., angry that a friend's car was being towed.

One man claimed to not have the money to cover a tow fee and threatened the drivers. When the tow truck drivers tried to leave one of the men fired at least eight shots into the cab, shattering the window.

As police arrived at the scene, officers saw one of the suspects throw a gun as he was running away. The officers recovered the gun and arrested 24-year-old Kenneth Hatch for making terroristic threats and possession of a stolen firearm.

Officers were given permission to search the apartment that the men had come from and located another handgun that had also been reported stolen as well as marijuana.

Twenty-two-year-old Kyle Hauder was booked for possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and for an unrelated misdemeanor warrant. Police said he's the boyfriend of the owner whose car was being towed.

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Kim Hobscheidt of Auto 1 Towing later surveyed the damage to its tow truck. “We've got the five here. We've got the three up here in the windshield.” There were bullet holes everywhere. “From what I understand, eight. Yes, very scary.”

“We have a contract with that complex and the reason that we are there doing this is there are only so many spots.”

To read the full article CLICK HERE

Pressure grows for revising policies on towing unlicensed drivers' cars - Los Angeles Times

2011-03-28T06:24:00.000-07:00

Towing unlicensed drivers' cars

Los Angeles is just the latest city to alter policies on impounding cars in response to complaints from immigrant rights advocates, who are now pressing the state and L.A. County to do the same.

March 13, 2011By Paloma Esquivel, Los Angeles Times

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Los Angeles police last week joined a growing list of law enforcement agencies across the state in changing policies for impounding vehicles of unlicensed drivers, a shift prompted by complaints that illegal immigrants were being unfairly targeted at DUI checkpoints.

To read the full article click HERE

Towing electric cars may pose problems

2011-03-08T07:53:00.000-08:00

By Auto123.com,

Tuesday, March 08, 2011

Canadians will soon be able to purchase electric vehicles yet many have already voiced their concerns about the availability of charging stations as well as the longevity and replacement cost

But what about towing? There is actually a very specific technique required to tow a stranded EV.

Most of these cars come with front-wheel drive. Logically, lifting the front axle should prevent any form of damage to the components, particularly the powertrain. However, towing companies don't use all the same equipment and techniques, and that's exactly the point that needs clarification.

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To read the full article click HERE

Interesting tip on towing electric cars versus gasoline

2011-03-02T11:25:00.000-08:00

Image via WikipediaFabulous creations that electric cars are, they're still machines designed by mere mortals and as a result, they may occasionally go wrong.

As they're operated by mere mortals too, you may find one time that you're unable to reach your destination on a charge thanks to a miscalculation, or you've parked somewhere you probably shouldn't have. In such scenarios, you'll need to have your car towed to somewhere more appropriate.

Only sometimes, you shouldn't have it towed.

Some electric cars, unlike their gasoline or diesel counterparts, don't have a neutral position in the transmission. They can go forwards or backwards, but when they're not doing either the motor is still connected to the wheels - it just doesn't have any power driving it.

To read the full article click HERE

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Towing corruption investigation expands

2011-02-28T07:54:00.000-08:00

Image via WikipediaCity suspends tow operator

February 26, 2011

By Peter Hermann and Julie Scharper

The Baltimore Sun

A federal corruption probe that has already led to more than 30 Baltimore police officers suspended or charged with receiving kickbacks in an alleged towing scheme has expanded to include at least one former officer from a state law enforcement agency.

Meanwhile, the criminal investigation is prompting renewed scrutiny of the city's lucrative towing industry, which led to quick action Friday when police suspended the license of one of the 10 companies with exclusive rights to the $4 million-a-year business.

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That move came after a Baltimore Sun reporter told officials that Aaron's Towing on Kirk Avenue had been barred by the state from doing business for the past two years, which had gone unnoticed by city officials.

To read the full article click HERE

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2011-02-24T06:38:00.000-08:00

From wzzm13.comBIG RAPIDS, Mich. (WZZM) --
Feb 22, 2011

A Grand Rapids woman will appear in Mecosta County District Court Wednesday on charges she caused heavy damage to an auto shop office because she was upset over the towing charge for her car.

Grand Rapids Police arrested Tiffany Nealous, 34, on Tuesday. She was released into the custody of the Mecosta County Sheriff's Department late Tuesday.

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Deputies say Nealous was involved in the 60-vehicle pile-up on U.S. 131 between Morley and Big Rapids on Sunday. Nealous' red Pontiac Grand Am was damaged in the accident, and towed to Weeks Auto Repair in Aetna Township.

To read the full story click HERE

House Reintroduces Safe & Efficient Transportation Act

2011-02-22T06:33:00.000-08:00

From TruckingInfo.com
2/21/11Image via Wikipedia

At the urging of The Coalition for Transportation Productivity, the Safe & Efficient Transportation Act has been reintroduced in the House of Representatives by Reps. Mike Michaud (D-Maine) and Jean Schmidt (R-Ohio)as H.R. 763.

SETA would, if passed, increase the federal weight limits on Interstate Highways. The bill's reintroduction comes as Congress considers the first Highway Reauthorization package in more than six years.

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The U.S. federal weight limit has been set at 80,000 pounds since 1982 - forcing shippers that meet this limit with space left in their trailers to use more trucks and fuel than necessary. The goal of SETA is to make truck transportation safer and more sustainable by giving states the ability to adjust federal weight limits on interstates within their borders.

Under SETA, each state would have the option to set interstate weight limits of up to 97,000 pounds -- giving shippers the ability to utilize more truck space. The higher weight limit would only apply to trucks equipped with six axles instead of the typical five. Without making the truck any larger, the additional axle maintains safety specifications, including stopping capability and current weight per tire.

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"SETA provides a critical opportunity for Congress to enact a Highway Reauthorization proposal that modernizes American truck shipping standards in order to protect motorists and the environment, and give U.S. manufacturers and producers a competitive edge," said CTP Executive Director John Runyan. "Many shippers hit the 30-year-old federal weight limit with significant space left in their rigs and must use more truckloads, fuel and vehicle miles than necessary to get products to market. â€¦ Six-axle trucks can safely handle more weight, so American companies can utilize more rig space, minimize the trucks they need to meet demand and reduce their dependency on foreign oil."

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According to CTP, the current 80,000-lb weight limit places U.S. industry at a competitive disadvantage when compared to producers in Canada, Mexico and the European Union.

to read the full article click HERE

Tow truck drivers fight against proposed new rules - WBTV 3 News, Weather, Sports, and Traffic for Charlotte, NC-

2011-02-15T06:15:00.000-08:00

From WBTV.com

Image via WikipediaPosted February 15, 2011

By Tom Roussey -

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - Monday night a number of Charlotte tow truck drivers told the city council its plans to fight so-called "predatory towing" are a bad idea -- and would actually be dangerous.

Tow truck drivers say the two parts of the proposed new rules that are dangerous are a requirement for them to be available to give cars back 24 hours a day, plus a requirement they wait and check with police to see if a car's stolen before towing it.

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The drivers say right now they shut down overnight, and they don't want to deal with folks who may come in in the wee hours of the morning.

"We have people that come to the lot very irate," said a woman with one towing company. "They're cussing, they're screaming, and it's a dangerous situation for not only the consumer, but the drivers as well."

Drivers are also upset about a part of the proposed rules that would force them to wait and check with police to make sure a car is not stolen before towing it. They say irate drivers may also threaten them while they're waiting.

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To read the full story click HERE

Corpus Christi raises fees tow trucks can charge

2011-02-11T07:09:00.000-08:00

* By Rick Spruill
* Corpus Christi Caller Times
* Posted February 10, 2011 at 4:13 p.m., updated February 10, 2011

CORPUS CHRISTI — The city is raising the fees auto wreckers can charge while lowering the amount of time they are given to respond to calls from police officers.

The City Council approved a new ordinance Tuesday governing non-consent towing, including autos in accidents or those being impounded.

City police officers rotate through a list of about 16 wrecking companies for all non-consent towing services.

Image by retiredtowman via Flickr

The ordinance, a cooperative effort of the Corpus Christi Police Department and several local towing companies, would allow wreckers to begin charging $110 for hauling off cars and small trucks, a $20 increase.

In exchange, city-approved wreckers would be required to show up within 30 minutes of being contacted by an officer, regardless of conditions, and employees would be subject to tighter drug and background checks.

The 30-minute window could to be tough to meet, said Joe Dees, owner of Statewide Wrecker Service.

To read the full article click HERE

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Small Businesses’ Confidence Hits Three-Year High | Transport Topics Online | Trucking, Freight Transportation and Logistics News

2011-02-10T08:18:00.000-08:00

From Transport Topics
February 8, 2011

A survey released Tuesday showed that confidence among small businesses hit a three-year high, Bloomberg reported.

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The National Federation of Independent Business optimism index rose to 94.1 in January, the highest since the recession began in December 2007 as the outlook for sales and profits improved, the group said Tuesday.

The reading was lower than the average 100.7 during the last expansion that started in November 2001, Bloomberg reported.

Small businesses are defined as independent enterprises that employ up to 500 people.
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Nearly 1 Year Later, Pittsburgh Still 'Wild West' For Towing Pirates - Pittsburgh News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh

2011-02-03T06:29:00.000-08:00

From WTAE.com
February 2,2011

Image via WikipediaTeam 4's Jim Parsons reported on Wednesday that nothing has happened nine months after Pittsburgh city council approved a new law to crack down on rogue towing companies.The most important feature of the new ordinance that got final approval in April requires tow truck companies to get a license from the city.Parsons asked Mayor Luke Ravenstahl's administration how many licenses it has given out so far. The answer? None.Last week in Oakland, Parsons spotted a man on a cell phone who is a lookout for a towing company. The man was watching a parking lot, waiting to see if any of the car owners who parked there went anywhere other than the store that owns the lot.Men like him were supposed to have a special license by now, but a Team 4 investigation finds the new law regulating towers still isn't being enforced.

Pittsburgh resident Dale Labby wishes it was after his experience with a different towing company."They charged me $550," said Labby, who was on Brookline Boulevard last month, waiting to make a turn, when his car got rear-ended by another vehicle. Suddenly, he said, tow trucks were on the scene."They showed up fast, real fast, before the city police and before the fire trucks and everything," Labby said.Somebody -- he doesn't know who -- asked for his car keys as paramedics loaded him into an ambulance, Labby said. A day later, when he was released from the hospital, he found out the bill for his tow was $550."That's outrageous. I don't want to see nobody else get ripped off," Labby said.

To read the full article click here
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Cops put Staten Island tow-truckers on the hook

2011-01-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

From SIlive.com
By John M. Annese
1/26/11

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A driver for a tow truck company considered to be one of the more aggressive on Staten Island came to grief when he put the wrong car on his hook: It belongs to a cop.

Image by andrew mace— via FlickrThe driver and a confederate ended up in handcuffs on charges they have been towing illegally from a private lot in St. George.Image via Wikipedia

About 3:15 p.m. yesterday, Erik Pastori, 36, of Brooklyn, a driver for County Recovery Corp., hooked up two cars — a 2002 Lexus sedan and a 2002 BMW sedan — parked in the lot outside 160 Richmond Terr., the home of a former Country Donuts in St. George.

It turned out the Lexus belongs to Rudy Anzalone, a police officer at the North Shore’s 120th Precinct, and when police came out and saw the car towed, they arrested both Pastori and Ellis Cordero, 34, also of Brooklyn, who was sitting in the tow truck’s passenger seat.

According to police, Pastori and County Recovery had no business towing any cars from the lot.
Cordero — whom authorities identify as an employee of PSJ Management — presented a signed authorization form for the vehicle to be towed.

But police said the property’s owner, identified in court papers as Eduardo Ortiz, gave no permission to tow vehicles from the property, "and did not sign any written authorizations for the towing of said vehicles as required by the Department of Consumer Affairs."

To read the full story click HERE

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Towing company owners go the extra mile in service - Business - MercedSun-Star.com

2011-01-17T07:44:00.000-08:00

From the Mercedsun-Star.Com

By CAROL REITER

Will Hailey started out at age 16 driving a tow truck for his uncle in Arkansas. He loved the work, and after a nine-year stint in the Army, he decided to go into business for himself.

Hailey offers some perks for his customers that are unique in the business. And the insurance companies are so pleased with Hailey's work that his family business recently won an award.

"This is the type of business that has to be in your blood," Hailey said. "You have to enjoy helping people."
Hailey and his wife, Mistidawn, are the owners of Advanced Roadside towing company in Atwater. The company won an American Towman ACE award for achievement in service performance. Recipients were nominated by the nation's major motor clubs and dispatch centers.

The award put the Haileys in the top 1 percent of towing companies in the nation for satisfaction. "We don't treat our customers like they're customers," Hailey said. "We treat them like a brother or sister."

To read the full article CLICK HERE
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When they say dont park here....they mean it!

2011-01-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

Excerpted From WWLP.com
Parking bans mean tow trucks are busy
More than 150 cars towed in Springfield alone
Image via Wikipedia* By Sy Becker

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Some 150 drivers learned the hard way Wednesday morning that the Springfield parking ban is not to be taken lightly.

A spokesman for C.J's towing service told 22News, "150 cars were ticketed and towed before dawn". Their work isn't over yet. After a brief respite, they were back on the road later in the morning.

Police and Public works departments in many Western Massachusetts communities take their parking bans very seriously. If your car is parked on a public way and you're impeding the plowing operation, expect your car to be towed.

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Sentencing set for Friday in tow-and-sue scam case

2011-01-06T06:53:00.000-08:00

Jan 5, 2011
By Staff Report - Gilroy Dispatch

A San Benito father-son tandem that pleaded no contest to using their towing and collections business to scam hundreds of motorists for almost a decade will be sentenced Friday, according to the Santa Clara County Superior Court.

Sentencing for Vincent Cardinalli, 67, and his son, Paul Greer, 33, is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the Hall of Justice in San Jose.

A Gilroy Dispatch request to photograph the sentencing hearing was denied by Santa Clara County Judge Gilbert T. Brown.

In June, Cardinalli pleaded no contest to 99 felony charges and one misdemeanor charge - including counts of forgery, perjury and embezzlement - stemming from a tow-and-sue scam piloted by Cardinalli and members of his family, according to the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office.

In May, Greer pleaded no contest to 59 felony charges, including 26 counts of attempted grand theft, 14 counts of perjury, 13 counts of subornation of perjury, three counts of embezzlement and one count each of conspiracy to obstruct justice, presentation of false evidence and burglary, according to prosecutors.

To read the full article click HERE

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CCPD: No insurance? You get towed | Corpus Christi, TX | KZTV10.com |

2010-12-31T06:49:00.000-08:00

From KZVT.com
posted December 30,2010

CORPUS CHRISTI -- Corpus Christi police say it's a crime that goes unpunished all too often: driving without insurance.

And the numbers are staggering: 25 percent of drivers in Nueces County are not insured. Over 4,000 citations have been issued in the last 6 months. 1,000 plus accidents in 2009 involved a driver with no insurance.

"Beginning January 1, if you do not have insurance, we're going to tow the vehicle," said CCPD Chief Troy Riggs.
Image via Wikipedia
Corpus Christi police haven't had much choice up until now---their impound lot has been full. Chief Riggs says with monthly auctions of cars that aren't picked up, it'll make room for cars towed for not having insurance.

To read the full story click HERE

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Authorities: Tow-truck driver shoots, kills man after dispute over booted minivan | islandpacket.com

2010-12-27T08:17:00.000-08:00

Oates not arrested, says he shot Bluffton man in self defense

By ALLISON STICE
astice@islandpacket.com
From The Island Packet
Published Saturday, December 25, 2010

A Bluffton man was shot and killed Christmas Eve by a controversial tow company operator, who put a boot on his minivan as he was visiting with relatives, according to Sheriff P.J. Tanner.

Carlos Olivera, 34, was shot multiple times at about 8:30 p.m. Friday in front of his brother's home at 408 Live Oak Walk in the Edgefield neighborhood, Tanner said.

The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office is investigating, but Preston Oates, a principal of Pro Tow, has not been arrested, Tanner said.Image via Wikipedia

The sheriff said Olivera was shot several times but would not give further details. Results of an autopsy Christmas Day at Medical University in Charleston are pending, Deputy Coroner David Ott said.

Both men were armed, Tanner said, adding his department is reviewing witness statements and evidence, including two confiscated weapons, to determine what led up to Olivera's death.

Oates -- who says he acted in self-defense -- was detained by deputies and released later that evening, Tanner said.

To read the full article click HERE
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D.O.T. proposed cell phone ban

2010-12-22T07:11:00.000-08:00

From Transport Topics
Updated: 12/21/2010 1:00:00 PM
DOT Opens Comment Period on Proposal to Ban Truckers’ Hand-Held Phones

FMCSA Will Accept Comments Through Feb. 22

Image via Wikipedia

The Department of Transportation has published its proposed rule restricting truck drivers from using hand-held cellphones while operating and opened a two-month public comment period on the proposal.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration published the proposed rule in Tuesday’s Federal Register. Public comments will be accepted for 63 days, until Feb. 22.

FMCSA first unveiled its plan Friday, which would set fines for truck drivers as high as $2,750 per violation, while carriers’ could face fines of up to $11,000 for drivers’ using hand-held phones while driving a commercial motor vehicle.

To read the full article go to
http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=25794
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Yikes the price of diesel is going up again...

2010-12-21T08:10:00.000-08:00

I saw this article about the continued increase of diesel prices.

Diesel prices keep going up, up and away
From Trucker News
by Barbara Kampbell

On-highway diesel prices have risen 52.2 cents a gallon since this time last year.

12/20/2010

WASHINGTON — "Up, Up and Away" is a 1967 song written by Jimmy Webb and recorded by The 5th Dimension. The lyrics talk about taking a trip in a beautiful balloon.

Something else is going up, up and away these days and there's nothing beautiful about it — diesel prices.
Image via Wikipedia
The average weekly retail on-highway diesel prices jumped another 1.7 cents to $3.248 for the week ending Dec. 20, according to the Energy Information Administration of the Department of Energy.

That means a staggering increase of 52.2 cents since the same time last year.

To read the rest of the article click here
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90% of all fleets unranked by CSA

2010-12-17T07:26:00.000-08:00

Barely 12 percent of active motor carriers are ranked in any of the five safety categories within the new Safety Measurement System the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration made public for the first time on Dec. 12, according to an analysis by Commercial Carrier Journal.

To read the full article at Overdrive Magazine.com click HERE

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Operation Tipsy Tow

2010-12-14T09:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a great article on towers and law enforcement teaming up to prevent holiday accidents:

Operation Tipsy Tow offers free ride

by Angela Brandt

Starting Friday, those who have a bit too much to drink during the holiday season will have a safe ride home thanks to Operation Tipsy Tow.

The program will be available in Helena, Bozeman, Missoula and Billings. Those in Helena needing a ride can call Elite Towing at 443-6068. The ride is free and confidential.
Image via Wikipedia
“You can celebrate all night and have a great time, but it takes a moment to ruin someone’s life,” Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton said.

Last year, 97 people died in alcohol or drug related crashes on Montana roads, according to the Montana Department of Transportation.

for the full story click here

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2010-12-13T08:42:00.001-08:00

Intermodal Traffic Gains 13.8% for Week

from Transport Topics
12-13-10

Intermodal traffic rose 13.8% last week from a year ago, the Association of American Railroads said.
Image via Wikipedia
Traffic for the week ended Saturday totaled 235,835 trailers and containers, led by a 15.3% gain in containers to 197,526 units. Trailers rose 6.5% to 38,309 units.

U.S. railroads originated 303,570 carloads for the week following Thanksgiving — up 6.8% from a year ago, AAR said in its weekly report.

Railroad volume is considered an important economic indicator. Intermodal traffic, which tends to be higher-valued merchandise than bulk commodities, uses trains for the long haul and trucks for the shorter distance at either end of the trip.

2010-12-13T08:23:00.000-08:00

From Transport Topics
December 13, 2010

Consumer Confidence Hits Six-Month High

Consumer confidence rose to a six-month high this month, according to the preliminary monthly Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan consumer sentiment index released Friday.

The index rose to a reading of 74.2, from 71.6 in November. Economists had forecast a reading of 72.5, Bloomberg reported.

The final index will be released later in the month. An improvement in confidence may increase consumer spending, which accounts for 70% of the economy.

Consumer Confidence Hits Six-Month High | Transport Topics Online | Trucking, Freight Transportation and Logistics News

Image by Getty Images via @daylife

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BY STEVEN MAYER, Californian staff writerImage via Wikipedia

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