The trickier situation is Urban. Urban is competing with T&R and taking its customers. Part of Urban’s new business arises from investments from the former employer. However, the former employer did not really make investments to attain and retain Urban’s clients. Urban developed these relationships entirely on his own, just simply under the banner of T&R. How much T&R’s banner contributed to those relationships is a matter of debate. This situation would need more detail before a court could make a determination, and it may vary state-to-state. Generally speaking, tow companies should engage in practices that minimize these situations (note sidebar). Consult with an experienced lawyer before hiring and training employees. Good practices, in the management of employees and clients, can help avoid these situations.

North 74 • November 2021 | Towman.com