American Towman Magazine - January 2026

TOWMAN OF THE

YEAR

STEVEN LOUIS CALITRI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF January 27, 1952 December 4, 2025

JANUARY 2026

Contents

Volume 50 Issue 1

Cover Feature 28

January

TOWMAN OF THE YEAR

by Henri “Doc” Calitri

Steven Louis Calitri, Editor-in-Chief of American Towman Magazine, passed away on December 4, 2025 at the age of 73. He is remembered for his dedication to the towing industry by promoting the professionalism of towmen, and honoring their grit and heroism.

Features

20

Dig In— Stabilizing Spades

by Randall C. Resch

42

WreckMaster Donnie Cruse Recovery Award

by Steve Temple

52

Thinking Bigger— Territory Tactics That Work

by George Metos

4 • January 2026 | Towman.com

2026 Departments 6 8 10 11 12 20 34 38 48 52 56 58 60 62 69

The Walkaround News Share Road Tools Zoom In Hands-On Tech Towman Techniques Ad Index Supplier Scoop Towman Safety Tow Boss Towing Legalities Towman’s Market My Baby The Lowdown Adventures of A.T.

First on the scene since 1977

The Walkaround Honoring Steven Louis Calitri Towman of the Year and Eternal Champion of the Road It did not require much deliberation to choose this year’s Towman of the Year. Steve Calitri though, humbly would never have selected himself to grace the cover of the magazine he nurtured for 43 years.

Dennie Ortiz In fact, a few months ago, Steve and I had agreed upon a Publisher worthy individual on which to bestow this year’s honor. However after Steve’s sudden passing on December 4, our team, along with the prompting of several industry leaders and tow bosses, decided that he was to be the one. And rightfully so.

Steve dedicated a good part of his life to elevating the towing industry, recognizing early on that towmen and women are the true unsung heroes of the road. For decades, he worked tirelessly to ensure that your vital, and often dangerous work, received the respect and appreciation it so deeply deserves.

He poured his heart into raising the profession’s standards so that the towing community would be truly seen and valued for all it gives.

In the Towman of the Year article, Steve’s brother Henri “Doc” Calitri, paints a vivid picture of the many remarkable programs, unique events, and unparalleled tributes Steve created to celebrate, recognize, and honor the towing community. From conceiving the Towman Hero Medal to honor towers who risked their lives to save another, to envisioning the Towman Monument, the first-ever statue dedicated to the Towman, and even the vision of an Exposition where the industry could come together not only for business, but to celebrate achievements, share experiences, and learn together, were all born from Steve’s vision.

I was very fortunate to have worked alongside Steve for nearly 28 years and witness his creative process; the first spark of an idea, the planning, the implementation, and finally the success of the many events and programs. A mentor and close friend, Steve showed me how to appreciate all aspects of the towing world, from the business side to the human side.

Most recently, he was excited about his latest project, a large-scale tribute to the 274 Towman Medal recipients awarded for heroism over the course of the last 36 years. This “Wall of Heroes” was set to be unveiled at the 2025 Exposition in Baltimore, but it did not happen, and perhaps it was delayed for a reason. Not knowing this would be his final act, he still gave his all to this endeavor, once more seeking a meaningful way to pay tribute to the exceptionalism of the towing professional.

Now, in Baltimore in 2026, this remarkable tribute will be unveiled not only to celebrate the brotherhood of all towmen, but also to honor Steve Calitri himself, and the legacy of recognition he so lovingly created for the industry he cherished.

For all he gave this industry, and for the tributes that will continue for generations to honor the unsung heroes of the road, I salute a truly great man, Steven L. Calitri.

As we move into this year, it is with deep sorrow, yet great purpose, that we carry forward Steve’s legacy, lifting the towing industry to the heights it has rightfully earned.

American Towman wishes everyone a happy and healthy New Year and always, stay safe out there!

A Solemn Farewell With this issue dedicated to the passing of Steven Louis Calitri, our Editor-in-Chief and founder of American Towman Media and Expositions, please read the moving tribute penned by his brother Henri “Doc” Calitri. Steven impressed me with his unwavering devotion to towing professionals, honoring them in so many ways. He found meaning in this heartfelt endeavor, paying tribute and dignifying their hard work and sacrifices. Drawing attention to the virtues of unsung heroes Steve Temple is not often seen these days, making Steven’s contributions all Editor the more significant.

I feel privileged to play a small part in American Towman’s ceremonies such as The Order of Towman, March of the Heroes, and WreckMaster Awards, held during the AT Expo in Baltimore. These experiences and Steven’s example have motivated me to speak directly with as many tow operators and owners as possible; to hear their life stories so I can share them in the pages of American Towman magazine. I am deeply grateful to Steve Louis Calitri for his inspiration and leadership.

6 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Dennie Ortiz Steven C. Calitri Steve Temple Randall Resch Terry Abejuela David Kolman Mark Lacek Brian Riker George Nitti Henri “Doc” Calitri Paul Stephens

Publisher & President Chief Executive Officer Editor Operations Editor Field Editor, West Chassis Editor Repo Run Editor Contributing Editor Contributing Editor Contributing Editor Contributing Editor

Editorial Board Tommy Anderson Bill Johnson Kurt Wilson Tasha Mora Ron Meyers

Dallas, Texas South Hadley, Mass.

Creve Coeur, Ill. Austin, TX. Cambridge, OH.

American Towman Staff President AT Expo Corp.

Art Director Advertising Sales Mgr. Senior Account Exec.

Regional Advertising Sales iMarketing Manager Finance Manager Conferences & Events Sr. Mgr. Events Manager Publisher’s Assistant Registration & Subscription Mgr. ATTV Producer Customer Service

Henri “Doc” Calitri Anne Ruzsilla Dennie Ortiz Ellen Rosengart Peggy Calabrese Ryan Oser Lisa Ciraldo Ilce Negri Bryna Stankiewicz Stephanie Marchese Andrea Richardson Emily Oz Henri Calitri

American Towman Media Headquarters 2 Overlook Drive, Suite 5, Warwick, NY 10990 800-732-3869 or 845-986-4546

E-Mail: President Editor Subscriptions

dortiz@towman.com stemple@towman.com subscriptions@towman.com

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Copyright ©2026 American Towman Magazine is published 12 times a year by American Towman Media, Inc.

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 7

News Share National “Move Over” Resolution Passes

A bipartisan resolution promoting the national observance of “Move Over Law Day” has passed the U.S. Senate, aiming to increase awareness of state “Slow Down, Move Over” laws and reduce roadside deaths and injuries.

The measure was led by Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.).

The resolution was inspired by the death of Connecticut tow truck operator Corey Iodice, who was struck and killed in 2020 while assisting a stranded motorist.

It recognizes the risks faced by tow truck operators, law enforcement, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and highway workers who serve on the nation’s roads.

Supporters said the resolution is intended to reinforce public education and save lives by urging drivers to reduce speed and change lanes when approaching roadside workers. The measure has been endorsed by national and state safety, transportation, and law enforcement organizations.

Source: blumenthal.senate.gov

New Milwaukee Ordinance Leads to 17 Cars Towed

Milwaukee’s new crackdown on reckless driving is showing results, with police towing 17 vehicles in the first two weeks of a city ordinance that allows officers to impound cars after a single offense. The measure, enacted less than a month ago, replaces a previous law that limited towing to repeat offenders with unpaid fines. Under that old rule, Milwaukee police managed to tow just 11 cars in two years, a number surpassed in only 16 days under the new policy.

Before November 5, most reckless drivers were cited and allowed to continue on their way. Now, they must surrender their keys and pay nearly $500 to retrieve their vehicle, including a $313 citation, a $150 tow fee, and daily storage costs. The rules apply even if the driver doesn’t own the car, although victims of stolen vehicles can reclaim them without charge.

Source: tmj4.com

8 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Towman Honored

for Preventing a Suicide

A Kentucky tower is being recognized as a hero after intervening to stop a suicide attempt on Tyrone Bridge in Versailles, Kentucky. Towman Stefano Slone was awarded the Versailles Police Chief’s Commendation for his actions on the morning of Nov. 26, when he encountered a young man threatening to jump from the bridge.

Slone, who works for Carey’s Towing & Recovery, was towing a vehicle from a crash and had taken an alternate route. As he approached the bridge, he noticed stopped vehicles and pulled over, believing there had been another accident. Instead, Slone found a man in distress standing near the edge of the bridge. According to Slone, a couple of bystanders were trying to convince the man to get away from the edge. Slone said he walked toward the man and got within arm’s length before being warned not to come any closer. After hearing the man say during a phone call, “No, you won’t ever see me again,” Slone acted, tackling him to the ground.

With help from a bystander, he held the man until police and emergency medical personnel arrived. “He kept saying ‘let me go, let me go, let me do

Kentucky towman Stefano Slone of Carey’s Towing & Recovery is being hailed as a hero. what I need to do,’” Slone said. “I told him, ‘not today, not in this county, and not on my watch, I said it’s not worth it.”

Versailles Police Chief Rob Young said the man, whom officers believe to be a veteran, was suffering from a mental health crisis.

“When you see something like this and somebody actually taking action to help another human being that’s suffering, it really feels good to know that there’s still good out there,” Young said. “And that’s why it was so important to recognize Mr. Slone for his actions that day.”

Source: wkyt.com

Towman Charlie Miller to Run for Texas Senate

Charlie Miller, a longtime tower to regulate us, we need to follow the and small business owner from Willis, KISS method—keep it simple ‘stupid’.”

Texas, has announced A self-described his candidacy for Texas “small government State Senate District 4, guy,” Miller said he’ll an open seat covering fight for fair oversight Montgomery and parts of the towing industry of Harris, Galveston, and simpler, more Chambers, and practical rule-making.

Jefferson counties.

He also hopes to reform “I want to help property taxes to give small businesses, and veterans, retirees, and of course, the towing families caring for community—that’s disabled members where my heart’s at,” financial relief. said Miller, who has Source: Charlie Miller, owner of a Texas worked in towing for charliefortexas.com towing company, is running for nearly 25 years. “When State Senate District 4. the government wants

News Share

Chattanooga

Implements Higher Tow Rates

Chattanooga drivers will now face higher towing costs after accidents or illegal parking, as new maximum rates have officially taken effect. The updated fees apply when the Chattanooga Police Department requests a tow, affecting passenger vehicles, pickup trucks, small trailers, and other lightduty vehicles.

Daytime tows are now capped at $239, while nights, weekends and holidays rise to $266. Additional charges begin on Day 1, including daily storage at $35, a $75 administrative fee for locating and notifying the owner or lienholder, a gate fee of $50 to $150 depending on release time, and applicable taxes. According to Shackleford Towing & Recovery owner Mark Shackleford, these costs fall on the vehicle owner or lienholder—not the city.

The increase follows two missed years of inflation-based adjustments,

Shackleford Towing & Recovery responds to a downtown Chattanooga crash. and comes nearly a year later than scheduled due to delays in the approval process. Shackleford said tow companies needed the update, noting that a third of the vehicles he tows each month are never reclaimed. Rising equipment, insurance, labor, and truck costs also strain operators.

Source: timesfreepress.com

Canadian Tow Company Gains National Exposure A small Canadian towing company was in the national spotlight after one of its trucks appeared in a recent episode of CBC’s long-running drama Heartland. Red Rescue Towing, based in the southern Alberta town of High River, was contacted months ago by the production team, who asked to feature one of the company’s vehicles in a scene for Season 19.

Co-owner Kenneth Greenan said the offer surprised him, but he agreed immediately. “They contacted us and asked if we’d be interested in being in there, and they asked if they could keep my logo. I said, ‘Absolutely,’” Greenan said.

Producers ultimately had Greenan drive the truck himself. With his towing experience, he said the crew felt more comfortable letting him handle the vehicle during filming. The

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Red Rescue tow truck appeared in a TV drama. scene required 11 takes as he looped around the block while the production team reset.

Greenan called the experience exceptional. “The crew made you feel like part of their family,” he said.

The brief cameo, about nine and a half minutes into Episode 7, has since sparked local attention and sent curious viewers searching for the High River company online.

Source: highriveronline.com

Canadian Towmen Gather to Honor Downed Tower About 200 tow truck drivers formed a solemn procession to honor Kaveh Bigdeli, who was struck and killed while assisting a stranded motorist along Highway 401 east of London, Ontario on December 3, 2025. The driver involved failed to remain on scene, authorities said.

Towing companies from across Ontario, including the Greater Toronto Area, Niagara Falls, Sarnia, Huntsville, and Parry Sound, joined the convoy.

According to the Professional Towing Association of Ontario, Bigdeli was an employee of Majesty Towing.

“It’s a rite of respect and something that happens on a regular basis in our industry,” said association president Gary Vandenheuvel. “Every one of us has had a close call, so when something like this happens, it really hits close to home.”

Source: lfpress.com

Auto Loan Delinquencies Keep Climbing Auto loan delinquencies are rising to their highest level since the Great Recession, signaling growing strain on American households. New data from Fitch Ratings shows that subprime borrowers at least 60 days past due reached 6.65% in October 2025—the highest rate since tracking began in 1994 and above the peaks of 2008. Early-stage delinquencies are rising across all credit tiers, suggesting even stable earners are feeling the pressure.

Several forces are driving the surge.

New vehicle prices now average more than $50,000, while used cars hover around $28,000. To manage these costs, many buyers rely on 72- and 84-month loans, often carrying negative equity from previous vehicles. High interest rates— averaging above 9% for new cars—are pushing monthly payments beyond what many budgets can absorb. With wages lagging behind rising living costs, auto loans are becoming harder to maintain.

Repossession activity is rising sharply as well, with analysts projecting up to 3 million vehicles repossessed by year’s end.

Source: vocal.media

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 9

Road Tools You Raise Me Up Command Light has added a telescoping pole light to its lineup of light towers, battery lights, and traffic advisors.

These all-new telescoping LEDs measure 43 or 63 inches and mount to any rig for 63 or 100 inches of on-scene lighting respectively, when fully extended. These new work lights eliminate the harsh glare of typical sidemounted LEDs thanks to elevated, directional lighting.

Users can choose the brightness level, with the choice of either AC or DC LED, for up to 40,884 lumens of light (depending on the LED). This telescoping light pole can be spec’ed with Akron, FireTech, FRC or Whelen fixtures. The Command Light’s anodized black pole has a sleek, modern look, and features an optional bottom cradle and elevated warning sensor. Command Light has been known for 25 years as a trusted lighting brand in the fire and roadside response industry. This new pole light lineup broadens the company’s ability to keep crews safe while facilitating their recovery efforts.

commandlight.com

Synthetic Sling TowToolz is known for heavy-duty rigging solutions, offering a wide range of products and systems to meet the equipment needs of tow operators. These include everything from hooks and shackles to air bags and spreader bars. In addition, TowToolz’s original eye-to-eye synthetic recovery ropes are an alternative to chains, designed to fit through aluminum rims without the risk of scratching or damaging them. Made from Honeywell Spectra fiber, the Spectra SuperSling is an ideal recovery rope for rigging and recoveries. Available in sizes varying from 3/8 to two inches in diameter, SuperSling is lightweight, flexible and has a higher WLL than traditional steel rigging equipment.

towtoolz.com

Driveshaft Bolt Breaker Bar A one-of-a-kind tool, this new SafeAll Driveline Tool is engineered specifically for the safe and efficient removal of drive shaft bolts on heavyduty commercial trucks. Featuring dual shallow sockets (sized at 1/2” and 12mm), precision-formed bends, and enhanced leverage, it’s built to effectively reach areas that standard tools simply can’t, making quick work of rusted or hard-to-access bolt heads. This innovative tool addresses common limitations of standard sockets or wrenches in confined and corroded working environments. Its precision-formed bends are designed to cradle the driveshaft, allowing for direct and unobstructed access to bolt heads without interfering with surrounding components. The overall shaft length provides enhanced leverage, enabling a towman to break loose rusted or over-torqued fasteners with ease. It also fits easier between the truck’s frame rails without interference. Constructed from highstrength steel (CR-V) for durability in harsh shop and field environments, the SafeAll Driveline Tool also features a knurled grip section for improved handling and slip resistance.

zips.com 10 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Zoom In

Miller Gets Down—Way Down

For carrier operators who handle lowslung exotic cars or industrial equipment with short underbody clearances, Miller Industries has a new option recently introduced at the American Towman Expo in Baltimore: the VLA (Very Low Angle) carrier. Engineered for easier vehicle loading and transport, this rollback features a 23-foot bed on a 162-inch chassis CA (Cab to Axle), and delivers a remarkably low six-degree load angle. It’s ideal for handling lowclearance vehicles without the need for extra ramps or cribbing. It’s also intended for transporting rental equipment,

such as floor sweepers or commercial vacuums, which require special handling for loading and transport.

Built for versatility and strength, the VLA carrier is available with a 10,000 lbs. rated aluminum bed. Instead of using a traditional hydraulic cylinder, this carrier’s twin-motor rack-and-pinion system allows the bed to travel 21 feet rearward on the subframe, and roll nearly flat to the ground for smooth, safe loading.

In addition, the optional Slidewinder winch can be moved sideways for an optimum pulling angle on the vehicle or equipment being loaded. Some exotic

cars come with a tow-eye in the bumper, but not always located in the center. The Slidewinder can be moved to put the winch cable right in line with the pull point so there’s no torquing from sideto-side.

Other options include a galvanized subframe, steel or aluminum tool compartments, wireless remote, and Miller’s Auto-Grip II, a wheel lift system that allows the retainer arms to hydraulically rotate from fully closed to an open approach position, and then rotate again, tightly gripping the vehicle tires.

millerind.com

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 11

Hands-On Tech

Fuel Service Avoiding “Fuelish” Practices

By Terry Abejuela This SURECAN has some features that are useful in the towing and recovery industry. The spout is attached at the bottom of the can so the tow operator does not have to tilt the can. The fuel flow is controlled by a trigger so fuel will flow and stop when the operator wants it to.

F

or tow truck operators, an out-offuel call may seem like a routine job, but there is never anything routine about working roadside with traffic rumbling by, sometimes weaving only inches from the workspace. Since fuel delivery is one of the most common requests for roadside assistance providers, tow truck operators must be properly trained to provide this service safely, efficiently, and professionally.

Field Editor Terry Abejuela has 40-plus years of light-duty towing and recovery experience. He is also a light-duty Level 1 instructor for the California Tow Truck Association.

amount of time spent on the traffic side of the disabled vehicle. Unfortunately for tow truck operators, nearly 78% of vehicles sold in the U.S. have the fuel filler located on the driver’s side. If the disabled vehicle is situated on the right shoulder of the road, an operator will be forced spend some time on the traffic side.

A best practice advises having the customer open the fuel filler door in advance. Also, consider providing just enough fuel to get the vehicle off the ASSESSMENT WHEN ARRIVING freeway or further away from the traffic Vehicles that run out of fuel often stop lane if possible. in unsafe locations such as Always follow all roadside intersections, in the middle safety precautions, such as: of a roadway, or on the • Identify an escape route shoulder of a freeway or in advance. other heavily traveled • Keep an eye on traffic. road. Upon arrival at the • Never turn away from scene, the tow operator traffic. must immediately conduct • Wear all appropriate PPE an assessment of the scene, such as an ANSI Class 3 and identify potential compliant garments, gloves, hazards.

Is the safety-toe work disabled vehicle shoes or boots, and too close to the traffic safety glasses. lane, or on the blind This locking gas cap key is a simple tool • Position the tow side of a curve or hill? that can be used to unlock a locking gas cap or service truck to Is motorist visibility when the customer has lost the key. provide a protective impaired by darkness, barrier for the fog, or inclement weather? workspace. But do not block an open Whenever possible, minimize the traffic lane. If this setup is required,

12 • January 2026 | Towman.com

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 13

request assistance from law enforcement.

• Utilize traffic safety devices such as warning lights, flares, or cones if legal and appropriate.

• Ask the motorist and any passengers to remain in the vehicle with their seatbelts fastened unless the vehicle is in an unsafe area.

Customers are often anxious, embarrassed, or just plain scared when they break down. Tow operators who are calm and professional can build trust and assure the customer they are in good hands.

CAREFUL CONTAINMENT

Most tow trucks are equipped with at least one five-gallon fuel container, but it’s better to have at least two five-gallon containers.

One red container for gasoline, and one yellow container for diesel fuel.

Also recommended is one smaller red container of the two- or threegallon size for a quick fuel service on a busy roadway.

Red fuel containers should be clearly labeled “Gasoline” and yellow fuel containers labeled “Diesel”.

These fuel containers are usually equipped with a spout for pouring the fuel. Some states may have more stringent requirements, such as specific types of fuel containers and 14 • January 2026 | Towman.com

filler door release. Some models of Mercedes, Kia, Land Rover, Porsche, Rolls Royce, and Volvo have a manual fuel door override system.

Most manual fuel-door release levers are located in the trunk or cargo area, or can be on either the driver or passenger side.

When pulling the manual override lever, there may be a delay of up to 15 seconds before the fuel door opens. This is a safety feature that uses a computerized fuel tank pressure monitoring system that allows for the fuel tank to depressurize. Too much fuel pressure in the tank can result in injury when the cap is removed.

CAPLESS FUEL FILLER

Vehicles with capless fuel fillers will include a special funnel designed to fit properly when a standard fuel can or spout doesn’t.

spouts that can be sold or purchased in the state.

Tow trucks should also be equipped with a separate funnel, as some fuel fillers are located in such a way that the standard fuel container spout may not reach. Take necessary precautions to avoid fuel spillage on the customer’s vehicle or on the ground. Absorbent pads work great for protecting the customer’s vehicle from spillage.

Fuel-soiled pads must be properly contained and disposed of per local environmental requirements.

ELECTRIC FUEL DOOR RELEASE OVERRIDE

Many newer vehicles are equipped with an electric fuel

Some vehicles are equipped with a capless fuel filler neck. This is designed to prevent the check engine light from coming on when the cap is not installed, overtightened, or under-tightened. The closure flap that seals the fuel filler neck is much stronger than other types of closure flaps. The fuel filler neck is the same diameter as the fuel nozzle at the fueling stations. When a fuel nozzle at the fueling station is inserted into the filler neck, it makes contact with tabs on the perimeter of the fuel filler neck, releasing the closure flap to allow the nozzle to insert. When a fuel container spout or funnel is the wrong diameter, it won’t engage the tabs, preventing the closure flap from opening.

MORE FUEL SERVICE TIPS

-Missing Key: There is a very simple tool to unlock a locking gas cap when the customer has lost the key. It is easy to use and will open a significant number of locking gas caps. This tool also unlocks many toolbox locks traditionally used on tow trucks.

-No Prime Time: Don’t prime carburetors with either gasoline or

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 15

Maximizing a Tow Truck’s Fuel Capacity A wide variety of options are available for increasing the fuel capacity of a tow truck or roadside service vehicle. Transfer tanks or “ready tanks” can be mounted in the bed of a pickup or near the spare tire mount. This setup would eliminate the need for storing and lugging around a separate container of fuel.

In addition to proper handling of no-fuel service calls, tow operators need be mindful of their own fuel reserves as well, especially when working in a remote area that’s a long distance from any pump stations.

One way to ensure there’s plenty of fuel onboard is to install an underbody, midship replacement tank that substantially increases capacity. Several companies offer fuel tanks that can add as much as an extra 60 gallons, depending on the make and model of the tow truck or roadside service vehicle.

Additional benefits include improved chassis stability due to the weight of the extra fuel, along with being able to reduce operating expenses by filling up on fuel that’s available at a lower price.

Fuel Tank Advertiser Titan Fuel Tanks .... pg.39

16 • January 2026 | Towman.com

starter fluids. Doing so is dangerous and some tow operators have been injured while attempting this risky procedure. Priming is rarely needed with newer vehicles.

-When to Tow Instead: Diesel vehicles that have run out of fuel may require manufacturer-approved priming procedures, but these may be too complicated or unfeasible on the roadside. If the vehicle does not start after adding fuel to the tank, then a tow is recommended.

FUEL STORAGE

Some towing companies prefer to keep the fuel containers empty until needed, and the tow operator responding to a fuel service call will stop to fill them on the way to the stranded motorist. Typically though, towing companies prefer to store fuel in the fuel containers on the truck to eliminate the need to stop for fuel.

However, both gasoline and diesel fuel, if stored for a long time, will eventually become contaminated to the point that it may cause damage to a vehicle’s fuel system.

Tow companies that store gasoline in the fuel container on the truck are using it often enough that this isn’t an issue. Gasoline is usually still good for up to six months, but diesel fuel may be contaminated as quickly as one month.

Many tow operators believe that both fuels have good longevity, but when providing any fuel to a customer, it is worth the extra effort to prevent potential damages. An easy way to ensure the customer receives fresh, uncontaminated fuel is to pour the container’s fuel into the truck’s tank once a month, and refill the fuel container with fresh fuel.

When refilling fuel containers, remove them from the truck and place them on the ground to avoid a static electricity charge that could

potentially cause a spark and ignite fuel vapors. Only fill fuel containers to about 95% (leaving 5% for air) of their capacity to allow for thermal expansion. This is crucial given that gasoline expands significantly with heat, and this empty space prevents dangerous pressure buildup, swelling, or spills that could cause fires or environmental hazards. Always include this air gap, and secure the cap tightly after filling to lock in vapors and prevent accidents, especially when transporting or storing.

Make sure when storing fuel in the fuel container on the tow truck that the containers are securely fastened to the bed to prevent tipping over, and the container and cap are locked to prevent theft.

HELPFUL CUSTOMER RELATIONS

Be prepared to provide useful information to your customer, such as directions to the nearest fuel station.

Keep an updated list of fuel stations in the area with hours of service and fuel types available there, since not all stations offer diesel.

To minimize legal and financial risks, verify that the tow company’s insurance policy includes coverage for fuel transport and delivery, as well as any spills or fuel-related incidents.

Always follow local, state, and federal laws regulating the transport and delivery of fuel. Provide training for hazardous materials handling and roadside assistance procedures on an on-going basis.

Out-of-fuel calls are among the most common roadside assistance requests and may appear routine compared with towing or recovery calls. However, tow operators must be properly equipped and prepared to handle these calls safely, efficiently, and in a professional manner.

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 17

18 • January 2026 | Towman.com

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 19

Towman Techniques history of various designs, towman techniques, and best practices necessary to keep winching wreckers in place.

GARAGEMEN CAME FIRST

In the industry’s early years, tow operators, known as “garagemen”, typically were mechanics first and foremost, who operated from auto repair shops, or from a vintage petrol station.

As part of a repair facility’s operations, some garage owners supported mechanical repairs by deploying early models of winch trucks. Out of necessity, Ernest Holmes built his first wrecker on a 1913 Cadillac to tow and recover wrecked cars and farm equipment. Holmes went to the drawing board and designed a mechanical lifting device mounted on a heavy vehicle’s frame. This rig was capable of rescuing or recovering wrecked jalopies that veered off the edges of rural roads. The Holmes wrecker included an early version of downriggers to stabilize the truck during recovery operations.

“CALKING” YOU SAY? Spades digging-in ensures mechanical advantage when winching, along with overall wrecker stability.

Dig Deep Spades and Scotch Blocks for Stable Winching

By Randall C. Resch

Operations Editor Randall C. Resch is a retired California police officer and veteran tow business owner, manager, consultant and trainer. He writes for TowIndustryWeek.com and American Towman, is a member of the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and recipient of the Dave Jones Leadership Award. Email Randy at rreschran@gmail.com.

A

wrecker ’s winching performance depends on how securely it’s anchored to the surface beneath it. For wreckers outfitted with spades, stabilizers, or downriggers, these devices minimize the risk of sliding rearwards during heavy winching or snatch-block pulls.

In AT’s November 2024 issue, Brian Riker penned an informative article, Stay on Your Feet, explaining how outriggers stabilize tow vehicles during recovery tasks. However, this particular article takes a different slant, including some industry

20 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Over the years, the term “garagemen” evolved into the modern title of “tow truck operator”. Combined with skills passed down through the ages, groundbreaking devices emerged to drive progress in the towing industry.

On February 17, 1950, under Patent Number, US144703A, inventor William F. (Bill) Niedenthal, of Brookville, Indiana, submitted plans for a device to the U.S. Patent Office, entitled, “Calking Mechanism” (yes, that’s the correct spelling). His design for Holding Mobile Winch Units described a longish rail with an adjustable spike that poked into the ground’s surface.

When a heavy, rearward pull commenced, the truck’s weight bore down on the spike, preventing the winching truck from shifting. Different than Ernest Holmes’ downrigger on his first wrecker, Bill Niedenthal’s invention was accepted for patenting on April 28, 1953.

For garagemen, horse handlers, and military personnel, the early

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 21

Welding D-Rings to downrigger superstructures allows operators to attach snatch blocks, chain loops, and winch line hooks when a low-side pull is necessary during recovery.

term “calking” was a mechanical process utilized “to prevent slipping” as noted in Niedenthal’s patent application. Bill described his mechanical device as “…a ‘mechanical calking’ or ‘tire chock mechanism’, designed primarily for holding mobile winch trucks in place as winching operations are performed.” This calking unit was connected to the winching unit’s frame by a hinge.

HOW IT WORKS

The calking unit’s specific design allowed it to automatically release when the winching vehicle was moved forward, or opposite to the position the calking unit held. The unit would prevent the mobile winching unit from slipping backwards on ice or snow, or under the casualty vehicle’s weight.

As industry inventions progressed, solid metal triangles

evolved as foldable or static placement devices under tow truck tires to stabilize recovery vehicles.

These metal triangles, called “scotch blocks”, were attached to traditional anchor points on a wrecker’s rear dock (not to be confused with “chock blocks” for tires).

Niedenthal’s original unit was attached by welding a manual hand-crank, similar in appearance to modern-day boat trailer cranks, solidly welded to a wrecker’s rear dock. For the Calking Unit to work, the device was lowered and raised into holding positions by garagemen conducting winching procedures.

On the downside, if the Calking Unit was lowered to position and forgotten, the unit could punch through thin pavement surfaces, severely damaging the unit. Oddly enough, the same holds true to modern-day downriggers and spades. Don’t forget to raise ‘em!

STABILIZERS FOR RECOVERY

As pointed out by Brian Riker, “the secret to a successful recovery begins with building a solid platform.” To gain full mechanical advantage, the winching vehicle must retain its position by staying in place when critical winching is initiated. Should the truck begin to slide, mechanical advantage is immediately lost, along with the realistic possibility of overturning the tow truck or winch vehicle.

Another benefit of maintaining a stable footprint involves welding D-Rings to downrigger superstructures, which allows operators to attach snatch blocks, chain loops, and winch line hooks when low-side pull is necessary during recovery.

ARRESTING THE SLIDE A carrier’s wheel-lift provides little advantage in arresting a rearward slide unless outfitted with digging spades.

22 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Tow operators who have spent any time in the trenches know the

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 23

Scotch blocks are fitted with spiked edges and attached by chain to a wrecker’s rear dock. The tow truck’s weight presses down on these platforms to tighten the chains as the wrecker squats and bites.

Safety stickers display hazards on tow trucks outfitted with stabilizers and spades. Note D-rings and loops for the optional cable hook and snatch block attachment.

importance of tow trucks outfitted with spades and downriggers. The best tools in early operator arsenals were heavy, ramped platforms, called scotch blocks. These platforms were outfitted with saw-toothed, spiked edges that were attached by chain to the banjo eyes of a wrecker’s rear dock.

When positioned behind both sides of a wrecker’s dually tires, the truck’s weight presses down on these platforms to tighten chains. When critical winching was initiated, the truck and ground platform became one, causing winch trucks to bite and squat. In ideal conditions, scotch blocks prevented wreckers from a rearward slide. A set can be made by welders and fabricators, or 24 • January 2026 | Towman.com

purchased from towing equipment suppliers, typically priced between $300 and $400.

In a garageman’s attempt to stop early wreckers from sliding, trucks were often tied to solid objects, such as nearby trees or other fixed objects.

Tow operators who relied on tying-off often bent truck frames, or damaged, stretched and broke driveline components. Tying-off was thought to prevent sliding, but inflicted serious damages and the practice was eventually discontinued.

CARRIER WINCHING

To naysayer’s who claim carriers aren’t for recovery, think again. Talented carrier operators who are experienced in recovery techniques can conduct successful winching operations using specialty equipment designed for carriers. In today’s market, spade attachments are designed specifically for carriers having wheel-lifts.

Rearward stability is gained when a carrier’s flatbed extends, and is then lowered as the deck’s tailboard seats firmly atop ground surfaces. A tow operator can check platform stability by jumping upand-down on the carrier’s tailboard, watching for forward movement in the truck’s mirrors. When the

tailboard is properly set, the mirrors don’t move. When a carrier deck isn’t set, the truck’s mirrors are clear-cut indicators of a still floating deck.

By planting the deck, the carrier remains as a solid unit, where its deck, tailboard and tires meld onto a stable platform. A word of caution: Lower the tailboard to the pavement and STOP! Never over-raise the “headache rack” to avoid hyper extending, with the deck breaking underside welds or cracking the hinge pin at the tilt locations. If deck corners don’t contact the ground equally, position short lumber lengths under the deck’s uneven side to prevent deck corners from floating or twisting.

Spade attachments with stabilizer teeth can be added to a carrier’s lower wheel-lift structure. When combined with setting the deck, they build a platform most likely to arrest rearward slide. If that’s not enough, add a pair of hard metal scotch blocks to bolster staying power.

AVOID THAT FEELING

RUNDOWN

A tow operator’s arrival assessment should position the winching truck in-line to the casualty.

Once a carrier or wrecker is firmly planted in position, there should

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 25

be little or no movement. However, there’s no guarantee that a heavy pull won’t cause a truck to lose its footing and slide rearward.

For added safety, operators should

place one foot on the tow truck’s rim to feel for any movement during critical winch and recovery scenarios.

Experienced operators know that slight movement is typical to recovery.

They also know when to stop winching when too much movement undermines effective winching.

When a tow truck slides rearward, an operator’s feet and pant legs should stay safely away from being snagged by the truck’s tires, or running over the operator’s feet.

Should the recovery truck lurch from its position, operators must shove away from the sliding truck and let it settle. This is a lifesaving technique that every tower should apply during an extreme recovery.

ASK THE EXPERTS

The internet is full of influencers sharing questionable recovery methods to an attentive audience.

While some influencers post their own form of recovery as a “best practice”, tried-and-true recovery techniques can be found in the U.S. Army Recovery Manual – FM 2022, with field techniques that keep CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

26 • January 2026 | Towman.com

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 27

TOWMAN Celebrating the Life of

Steven Louis Calitri Editor-in-Chief and Founder of American Towman Media and Expositions

By Henri “Doc” Calitri

I

t was November 1999, and the crowd was rapidly filing into the 10,000-square-foot ballroom for the 10th annual Festival Night, the highlight of celebrations during the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore. This dinner gala is where towmen and women are honored with the celebrated Towman Medal for the “Simple Act of Bravery” in performing heroic deeds in the carrying out of their daily jobs. An evening which is now synonymous with the celebration of a towman’s unimagined exploits.

Steve was well-known for enjoying a good cigar.

28 • January 2026 | Towman.com

But on this night, there was an air of expectancy, an exciting buzz among the people in attendance as they wondered what big announcement was going to be made this evening. After the main course was served, the publisher of American Towman magazine and founder of what had now become the industry’s largest trade show and conference, began his speech by recapping a heroic account of a towman who rescued a woman and her baby from an almost totally submerged From Steve’s imagination to bronze reality, the American Towman monument stands in eternal gratitude to honor the selfless tow heroes on the front lines.

car in raging waters. He extolled the virtues of every towing operator who would risk his life to save others.

The captivated audience listened attentively to the story; all eyes focused on the speaker. Then at a very precise moment, he announced, “Ladies and gentlemen, please turn around, in honor of all towmen and women in this country, I offer to you the American Towman.”

The spotlight blazed as the red drape was pulled away revealing a

OF THE YEAR towering bronze monument, nearly 10 feet high, of the heroic towman pulling the woman to safety. For a heartbeat, silence hung in the air, then the crowd of 800 leapt to their feet and the sound of applause was deafening.

It was a moment in time for the speaker. He felt a swelling of pride for the reception his bold idea, conceived just a few months earlier in the offices of American Towman magazine, had come to life and been felt by everyone in the room. It could be said that at that moment, the experience was life changing for all in attendance, including Steve Calitri.

It was a memorable night made possible by the many donations from industry towmen and suppliers.

A brief history on how we got to this point.

In 1980, my younger brother Steve and I created The Brothers Network, a fledgling publishing company

with a small trucking fleet magazine.

Two years later, with a loan from

Steve cherished his family above all else and enjoyed storytime with his two young sons.

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our father, we purchased a towing industry magazine, the American Towman. Neither of us had ever driven a truck, much less a tow truck, but there was something in the pages of the publication that captivated us.

Like many siblings, brotherly relationships can be strained at times and after we went our separate ways in 1987 (only for me to return in 2000), Steve assumed sole ownership of the company. Two years later, he recognized a void in the towing industry, the lack of a premier trade show on the East Coast. Steve called me one day – we were still

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 29

Busy floors, bold innovations: The modern-day American Towman Expo in full swing.

brothers after all – and asked my opinion. “I am thinking of doing a tow show,” he said, “What do you think?” As the older brother, I thought of a less-than-successful truckingtowing combined show we tried in 1984 in Philadelphia. It brought back somber memories. “Steve, don’t do it.

Keep concentrating on building the magazine. Stay focused on that.”

I suppose somewhat typical of our relationship at the time, he did not listen to his older brother’s advice and thus was born the American Towman Exposition.

But the American Towman Exposition would not be just another trade show. Calling on his talent to create, he added his own brand of fun to the show experience. The show aisles would not only be populated with tow business owners, whom Steve dubbed, “Tow Bosses,” but they would be entertained by stiltwalkers, jugglers, clowns and yes, even an organ grinder complete with a monkey on his shoulder.

Smiles and laughter, as well as the business of selling tow trucks would be the mainstay of the show. His gift to entertain earned him the nickname “P.T. Barnum of Towing,” in industry circles.

Recognizing that towmen and women are a rare breed, Steve sought meaningful ways to honor them.

And while the Towman Monument stands as a lasting tribute, he pursued other avenues to ensure their work received the recognition it deserved.

First came the Towman Medal, not Steve Calitri launches the ACE legacy, recognizing the cream-of-the-crop for their dedicated service. long after followed a 30 • January 2026 | Towman.com

collaboration with motor clubs to honor the cream of the crop of their service providers by nominating them for another award Steve conceived— the ACE Awards. To this day, hosted

by Ellen Rosengart, who has assisted Steve in building this event for the past 35 years, the ACE Awards remains one of the most respected and sought-after honors presented by American Towman.

In the years following the millennium, Steve set out to pay homage to the vital relationships that towmen have with their local police and fire chiefs in cultivating strong teamwork and community relations.

This gave rise to the Order of Towman, a continuing salute to the hundreds of honorees that have received the “Cross of the Order” award.

When the industry’s premier trainer in recovery skills, WreckMaster’s Donnie Cruse and his family were tragically killed in the early 2000’s, Steve set in motion the Donnie Cruse Recovery Awards Luncheon. This event is held annually during the American Towman Exposition and honors Donnie’s numerous accomplishments, as well as citing the Top Ten WreckMasters, WreckMaster of the Year, and the Donnie Cruse Recovery Awards

Recognizing that

towmen and women are a rare breed, Steve sought meaningful ways to honor them

for those towing companies who performed challenging recoveries with great skill. Steve worked with Donnie’s son Justin, inheritor of the company, so that the awards luncheon reflected the essence of the WreckMaster reputation.

Steve also brought education to many thousands of towmen through the editorial pages in the magazine and the American Towman Academy at the shows. His latest endeavor, the American Towman Online webinar series, was developed to further elevate and empower towing professionals by delivering practical training and insight in today’s most modern format.

In all fairness, it should be noted that not every creative brainstorm of Steve’s resulted in success. Just like Thomas Edison, who had several failures to his credit like the automatic vote recorder which politicians rejected in favor of manual voting, or the electric pen which was designed to make duplicating easier.

In the early 1990s, Steve introduced Smart Driver, a pamphlet that towers would use as a handout to promote their services to a motorist they had just assisted. Steve also believed that a National Road Service Directory listing towing services would be made available at truck stops across the country for truckers who were having problems and required service. He thought it would generate additional business for the towman. Much like a movie editor, these two ideas ended up on the cutting room floor.

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Proud recipients of the American Towman medal, towing’s highest honor for bravery and heroism.

The words of the old axiom come to mind. It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.

The same holds true in business. If you try something and don’t succeed, you will learn from that experience so that when you do succeed, you will appreciate it that much more.

Steve easily let go of what did not work and focused on what many would see as an insurmountable challenge, that of winning. Through perseverance, the wins soon followed.

Many other achievements sprang from Steve’s boundless creativity, each designed to honor an industry he had come to love and admire.

The Towman Mural, a 100-foot-long 10-foot-high hand-painted canvas of

various towing and recovery scenes that adorns every American Towman show in Baltimore, Las Vegas, and San Antonio debuted in 2001; the Towman Ballads he penned with singer and close friend Mike Corbin, musical tributes to the plight of today’s towman; the Towman Bill of Rights which Steve created with former towman and friend Frank Rice of Tampa to help write to give credence to the level of excellence expected of every towman and woman; and, the Towman 500 where Steve rewarded the five hundred oldest towing operations across America.

Always driven by creativity and his commitment to promoting the professionalism of a tow

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A throwback to 1989 where it all began - the first American Towman Expo.

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 31

operator, Steve created a comic strip, “Adventures of the American Towman” which appears in every issue of the magazine. For 20 years, readers have followed the exploits of A.T. Armada, a positive heroic portrayal of the everyday towman. He collaborated with industry veteran John Borowski from Massachusetts in the creation of the main characters.

Recognition of his contributions to the towing industry came to Steve when he received one of the industry’s highest honors with his induction into the International Towing Hall of Fame in 2003.

Perhaps most memorable is one of Steve’s crowning achievements, a project that took every ounce of commitment and dedication to assure its success. The Spirit Ride, begun in June of 2017, and repeated in 2018, was a procession of tow truck operators leading a symbolic casket across the country’s roadways and highways, eventually covering thousands of miles. It began in the small town of Haverhill, MA, continued through the eastern seaboard, pivoted across the South and the Midwest, and wound along the Great Plains of the Southwest all the way to the Pacific Northwest and down the coast to San Diego, CA.

The entire team at American Towman is humbly honored to salute a visionary, a man with an untold

creative brilliance and single-minded perseverance.

The journey then looped back again and finally completed its voyage at the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore in late November.

Each stop in a community along the way was made possible by the cooperation, planning, and execution of the trip by Tow Bosses who signed onto the project.

Without them, Spirit Ride would not have been possible. The industry also responded with donations from many companies and individuals that partially funded the event.

What had started out as a simple idea of a trip across the country of some sort—similar to an Olympic torch relay—was originally brought to Steve’s attention by Chip Kaufman, former president of B/A

One of Steve’s greatest triumphs. The Spirit Ride casket traverses the nation with the plea to Slow Down, Move Over.

32 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Products in Columbia, MD, who wanted to promote the “Slow Down, Move Over” laws to the towmen around the country.

But true to his nature, Steve saw a bigger picture. The towmen already knew of the laws, because they were the ones being injured and killed along the sides of the road answering calls. “No,” he said, “the message must get out to the motoring public.

They are the ones who are ultimately causing the industry’s casualties.”

Steve called upon towmen everywhere to help. He needed something dramatic to illustrate the plight. After several staff meetings, he unveiled the symbol, a single casket larger than normal, that would be decorated in red, white and blue—red for the blood sacrifice of the maimed, white for the spirit of those fallen, and blue for the loss to the family. Artist depictions of first responders in action were created by Bronx, NY wrecker artist Cecil Burrowes, who was wellknown for his tow truck graphics.

The call went out and the industry answered. Towmen who were competitors, and very often did not even like each other, came together for a common cause. The Spirit ceremony Steve authored was both somber and celebratory. Over 350 towns and cities were host to thousands of towmen.

National and local coverage on TV, newspapers, radio and internet, not to mention social media, exposed the plight of the warriors who work the nation’s roads.

The highlight of the media coverage was a front-page article in The Wall Street Journal on how Steve, thinking outside the box, elevated the image of the everyday towman by creating the numerous awards programs, musical tributes in the form of “ballads to the towman”, the A.T. Adventures comic strip, and an industry-leading magazine and trade shows.

The logistics were daunting, yet Steve and the American Towman staff

tackled every issue, planned every stop, and recruited drivers from across this land. Whenever a procession arrived at the next stop, it was led by Mike Corbin and his wife Ilce. The couple drove the Spirit RV every step of the way, greeting and meeting the people who were the real success of this mammoth undertaking. Police and fire departments everywhere joined the processions.

While the industry responded with contributions to offset the project’s cost, it was not known until now that Steve contributed his own money, easily over a hundred thousand dollars, to guarantee the Spirit Ride would endure. It is not something he wanted anyone to know because as he said, “this is not about me, it is about the message to this country to ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ to save lives.”

How many times in our lives do we ask ourselves, what were we put on this earth for? Steve probably asked that question of himself many times.

Born on January 27, 1952, he grew up in Bergen County, NJ, the fourth in line of five boys and a girl to Henry and Princine Calitri. He graduated from high school and first attended Valparaiso University in Indiana. Not entirely happy there, he migrated west to San Francisco and enrolled in the University of San Francisco. While completing a B.A. in psychology, he stayed in the city, working various odd jobs during his final semesters.

Some of these jobs included working as a customer service phone operator for a collection company, janitorial work for a commercial cleaner, and he even learned ballroom dancing which led him to teach at a Fred Astaire Dancing Studio. Married by this time and with a young family, Steve was charged with the upbringing of his two sons Henri and Steven, all the while searching for his identity. He also drove a taxi for a while to make ends meet. At one point, he even ran for mayor of San Francisco when the mayor at that time was assassinated, Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

and it seemed everyone wanted the job. Steve included.

To fund his campaign, Steve reached out to family members for donations. At that time, our brother Michael and I were working in Mike’s printing business in Connecticut. The only contribution we could make was printing a thousand campaign posters and shipping them to Steve.

A phone call from an irate Steve followed a few days later. You see, the only paper we could muster up was a lime green reflective paper, similar in color to safety gear worn by towmen on the road today. Normally, campaign literature and signs are in a red, white, and blue graphic style to highlight the patriotism of a candidate. In the end, Steve was able to garner a little over 1,000 votes, which was just about equal to his campaign treasure chest of a little over $1,000. Steve always joked that if he could have raised a million dollars, he would have earned a million votes and become mayor. The towing industry, of course, is grateful that did not happen.

Later, Steve came back east and he and I formed our company. After I left to pursue other interests in 1987, Steve took the helm of the company. The seeds of why he was put on this earth were sown. It all took some time to sink into his soul, but eventually the birth of the American Towman Exposition in 1989 became the first bloom on the rose that was to become Steve’s legacy.

Today, the magazine he poured his heart and soul into and the exposition that bears its name and is now recognized as the world’s largest towing industry trade show, are his everlasting contributions to the industry.

Little did he know that the company would grow to include two more leading trade shows, American Towman TV, TowIndustryWeek. com, and most recently American Towman Online Educational Webinars, effectively establishing itself as the leading media company

in the industry.

When Steve was afflicted with multiple sclerosis in 2010, which slowly robbed him of his energy and mobility, he stepped back from his daily management responsibilities.

The publisher role was taken over by longtime company associate Dennie Ortiz and show management by me for the expositions.

Just last month, Steve suffered another setback and was diagnosed with liver cancer. He tragically passed away on Dec. 4.

Steve could not have imagined that taking a stab at publishing a magazine in an industry he knew not much about, would turn into his life’s calling of 43 years.

The entire team at American Towman is humbly honored to salute a visionary, a man with an untold creative brilliance and single-minded perseverance, our leader who was dedicated to championing the journey of today’s “Tow Bosses.”

(The Towman of the Year article was written by Henri “Doc” Calitri with generous contributions from the American Towman Staff.)

Doc Calitri is president of AT Expo Corp. Since rejoining American Towman twenty-five years ago, Doc has been the impetus for bringing towers new show experiences in more locations around the country.

Doc is also a former Publisher of American Towman Magazine.

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 33

AD INDEX

January 2026

Access Tools..............................................15

Landoll............................... Inside Front Cover

Stivers Ford South......................................49

Akins Body & Carrier Sales.........................25

McMahon Truck Center...........................M65

Synergy Safety Group.................................53

All American Jerr-Dan in Old Bridge....N, S, M 63

Metrcocom................................................55

Talbert Manufacturing............................. N65

American Towman Online Webinars....N, S, M, W 68

Mike Keith Insurance Inc.........................M66

TDI Repair Facility......................................50

AT Showplace - Las Vegas................... 18-19

Miller Industries...........................................7

Texas Towing & Storage Assoc. (TTSA).......26

Autura........................................................47

Mobile Control Systems..............................45

Titan Fuel...................................................39

Big D’s Manufacturing.............................M66

New England Truckmaster....................... N66

Tow Industries........................................W66

Chevron Commercial..................................26

North.........................................................13

Tow360 Platform........................................36

Crouch’s Wrecker & Equipment..................23

OMG Tow Marketing...................................21

Towbook............................ Inside Back Cover

Custom Built MFG......................................21

Pacific General Insuarnce........................M67

Towing Dispatch Services..........................45

Dual-Tech..................................................34

Peak Wrecker Sales................................W65

TowMate....................................................47

EdgeTec/Hooks.......................................W63

Performance Advantage Company..............17

Utility Trailer Sales Southeast..................W67

Elizabeth Truck Center...............................37

Pine Hill Trailers.........................................37

West End Service.......................................51

G. Stone Commercial............................... N65

Progressive Commercial Insurance...............5

Winches Incorporated..............................W67

GuniWheel.................................................50

PWOF................................................... 40-41

Wrecker Supply USA...............................M67

Heavy Duty Help..........................................3

Quick Draw Tarpaulin System.....................39

Wrecker Warehouse.................................S67

ITI Skates...................................................36

Rick’s Truck & Equipment...........................57

Zermenos..................................................35

Jutland Truck Bodies..................................38

Santander Bank, N.A.................... Back Cover

Zip’s / AW Direct........................................27

Khasim Insurance Agency.......................W63

SHIFTR Trailers........................................S65

34 • January 2026 | Towman.com

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 35

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 winching vehicles from sliding. The Army’s instructions include, picket holdfast, log picket holdfast, log deadman, sand parachutes, and sand anchors, along with how-to deploy other vehicles and objects as anchors.

Keeping tow vehicles from sliding isn’t a new concept. A comprehensive understanding of winching dynamics is essential for all company trainers. Total mechanical advantage cannot be achieved if winch vehicles don’t squat and hold when winching begins.

36 • January 2026 | Towman.com

While slight movement is part of any successful recovery process, there are a plethora of tow truck products designed specifically to keep tow and winch vehicles in place.

Towers are reminded to employ several important safety measures before heavy winching commences: • Confirm that the tow truck’s emergency brake is applied.

• Properly position safety and recovery equipment (cones, signage, tire chocks, spades, etc.)

• Keep hands, feet and arms from

under spades and downriggers when lowering into place.

• Clear all bystanders and nonessential first responders from the winching zone.

• In extreme situations, drape a recoil cable brake (a weighted wrap) over the winch line.

• Watch out for any potential cutpoints.

• Plan an escape route should the truck break away.

• Listen for abnormal winch sounds indicating a labored operation.

Perhaps the most important consideration in any winching scenario is to know when to say, “No!” For obvious reasons, towers are reminded that every recovery demands wreckers and carriers are solidly planted on the pavement.

Always remain alert to any unintended movement of a tow truck or winch vehicle.

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 37

Supplier Scoop

Miller Industries’ headquarters in Ooltewah, Tennessee

Miller Industries Highlights Growth, Inventory Progress

Miller Industries used its appearance at the 17th Annual Southwest IDEAS Conference to underscore its long-term growth strategy, steady financial footing, and progress in reducing distributor inventory. CEO Will Miller emphasized the company’s focus on operational discipline and market expansion as it reaffirms its 2025 reve-

38 • January 2026 | Towman.com

nue guidance of roughly $800 million.

Miller noted that distributor inventory, which had ballooned in 2024, has now returned to healthier levels.

“We’ve now gotten our bodies and chassis below where we believe the average distributor inventory should be,” he said, adding that production levels should align with retail demand by mid-Q1 2026.

Source: www.investing.com

Isuzu and Decisiv Improve Customer Experience

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. recently announced a stronger relationship with Decisiv, Inc., extending and expanding its commitment to deliver a faster, smarter, and more connected customer experience. The collaboration powers Isuzu Connect— the company’s advanced version of the Decisiv Service Relationship Management (SRM) platform designed to streamline communication between

customers and dealers, improve repair outcomes, and significantly reduce vehicle downtime—by up to 25 percent.

Deployed at the majority of Isuzu dealerships across the U.S. over the past four years, Isuzu Connect continues to expand nationwide, bringing improved functionality and deeper integration with Isuzu360, a proprietary telematics system. The latest updates also include enhanced appointment scheduling and expanded dealer tools for even greater efficiency. Through seamless integration with leading Dealer Management Systems (DMS), Isuzu Connect ensures dealers can access real-time data to optimize service operations and customer communication. Together, Isuzu and Decisiv are helping customers get back on the road faster—enhancing uptime, performance, and confidence.

Source: isuzucv.com SEE MORE SUPPLIER SCOOP PAGES N, S, W 66, M67

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 39

40 • January 2026 | Towman.com

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 41

HANGING TOUGH

H

A Precarious Perch for a Jackknifed Tractor-Trailer

anser’s, a towing company based in Montana, received a call from law enforcement requesting a

recovery of a tractor and trailer hanging off the side of a mountain on Highway 14a outside of Lovell, WY. Law enforcement said they would

remain on scene and keep a portion of Highway 14a closed for the duration of the recovery process.

2025

Winner:

2025

Hanser’s

Donnie Cruse

Recovery Award

Presented by American Towman Magazine and WreckMaster

42 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Co-Sponsored by:

&

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ALL Recovery Specialists Qualify: Choose the most challenging recovery your company has performed with excellence. Send in your photos or video of the recovery along with your name, company, address, phone # and email, and you may be contacted for further details. Recovery must have been performed between 2010 and 2025. Send submissions to stemple@towman.com.

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 43

Once all the winch lines were attached, the wrecker operator hooked his winch lines to the front of the tractor for the recovery.

To safely access the trailer, an operator had to be lowered down the steep side of the mountain for rigging chains around various parts of the trailer and the rear of the tractor, in order to make sure the two units were lifted together.

44 • January 2026 | Towman.com

When Hanser's arrived on scene, the wrecker and rotator operators surveyed the scene to formulate a plan for recovery.

It was decided that a second rotator would be necessary to maintain the safety of all personnel and equipment, as the units needed to be hoisted up a very steep incline, then suspended and winched over a barrier and back onto the roadway.

While the second rotator was on the way, some of Hanser’s crew worked on cleaning up the mess left behind, gathering the torn paper bags that spilled out Bentonite cargo (an absorbent clay material), and placing them in a dump trailer for disposal. Once the trailer was full, an additional operator towed it to Big Horn County Solid Waste to dispose of the debris. The trailer was brought back to the scene and filled again with more debris.

Meanwhile, the remainder of the crew worked to setup the rigging for the recovery.

To safely access the trailer, an operator was outfitted with a harness, allowing him to be lowered down the side of the mountain to the trailer. Chains were placed around various parts of the trailer and the rear of the tractor to make sure the two units were lifted together and remained connected.

Once chains were hooked up, winch lines from both rotators were lowered to the operator on the precipice. He hooked winch lines from one rotator to the middle and rear of the trailer, and winch lines from

One of the rotators offloaded the dolly from a car carrier, which allowed the casualty to be towed without using the trailer's axles. Instead, the trailer wheels were placed on top of the dolly, and one of the rotators hooked to the front of the trailer with a sling.

◀

The wrecker and rotators worked together to winch up the trailer. Once it was raised and suspended, the booms on the rotators lifted the units over the highway barriers and back onto the roadway.

the second rotator to the front of the trailer. A winch line from the second rotator was also hooked to the rear of the tractor. Once all the winch lines were attached, the operator made his was up from the cliffside and back to the roadway. The wrecker operator then hooked his winch lines to the front of the tractor for the recovery.

The wrecker and rotators worked together to winch up the trailer. Once it was raised and suspended, the booms on the rotators lifted the units over the highway barriers and back onto the roadway.

After the tractor and trailer were winched back onto their wheels, the wrecker crew hooked up to the front of the tractor, and they removed and secured the driveline, along with attaching safety chains and tow lights.

Because of the severe damage the trailer sustained during the accident, it needed to be towed back to Hanser's location in Billings, MT using an industrial trailer dolly.

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 45

Despite the cab getting crushed, the driver of the semi was unhurt and later taken to a nearby town to meet up with his wife.

While the wrecker and rotator were preparing for towing, a Case loader scooped up the spilled Bentonite using a power broom attachment. The clay-like powder was then loaded into a side dump trailer, but some of the spill was too close to the barrier and needed to be swept away with push brooms to give the Case loader access.

Once the area was cleaned up, the towing equipment and all personnel returned to Hanser's.

Afterward, a heavy duty 5th-wheel truck and operator brought the side dump full of cargo and debris to Billings Regional Landfill to dispose of the remaining debris. All told, hoisting up a dangling semi and cleaning up clay required a long day of work from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., but Hanser’s handled the job in a professional manner, and for their extraordinary efforts, were awarded WreckerMaster’s Donnie Cruse Award for a difficult recovery well done.

RESPONDING EQUIPMENT Century 40-ton Rotator 1140 Century 40-ton Rotator 1040S Century 50-ton 9055 Side Dump and 5th Wheel Emergency Response Unit with Case Loader Emergency Response unit with Dump Trailer Since the trailer’s wheels were severely damaged, a Big D Dolly allowed the casualty to be towed instead.

46 • January 2026 | Towman.com

NRC TB20 Carrier with Big D Dolly

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 47

Towman Safety Since 2019, the towing and recovery industry alone has lost 124 operators to struck-by incidents, with many more suffering life-changing injuries. These are not just numbers—they are coworkers, family members, and friends.

A SEAT AT THE TABLE

Tow operators packed the training area during a Crash Responder Safety Week session at the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore. The high turnout demonstrated the industry's strong commitment to safety, training, and TIM readiness. Photo by Robert Stroh

Frontline Responders Towmen Standing Out at Crash Responder Safety Week

By Todd Leiss

Todd currently serves at the Deputy Director of Training for the Emergency Responder Safety Institute (ERSI; www.respondersafety. com) and is the founder of TIM Heroes, Inc., a 501c3 non-profit focused on emergency responder safety.

He is also a Traffic Incident Management Specialist at Jacobs Engineering, and has served as the Traffic Incident & Emergency Management (TIM) Supervisor for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC). Todd has also worked as an emergency dispatcher, volunteer firefighter, and emergency medical technician, and received several awards for his work in roadway safety.

C

rash Responder Safety Week (CRSW) hit differently this year. The conversations were bigger, the stakes were higher, and the urgency was unmistakable. From the U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters in Washington, D.C., to the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore, one truth came into sharp focus: the towing and recovery industry remains at the epicenter of roadway danger.

In the ten weeks leading up to CRSW, 13 emergency responders were struck and killed in the line of duty. And here’s the part that impacts our industry the hardest: Eight of those 13 were towing and recovery operators, road service technicians, or safety service patrol personnel.

48 • January 2026 | Towman.com

CRSW began with an in-person gathering of the Federal Highway Administration’s Executive Leadership Group (ELG) at U.S. DOT headquarters in Washington, D.C. For the first time, towing and recovery sat prominently at the federal table. Towing and Recovery Association (TRAA’s) Bruce Bender and Jeff Roskopf ensured that the industry’s voice was heard clearly and forcefully. For decades, towers have been viewed as the “cleanup crew.”

But in marked contrast, they are now recognized as what they truly are: frontline responders with one of the highest struckby fatality rates in the nation.

This year also marked the 10th anniversary of Crash Responder Safety Week, accompanied by a major announcement: a national goal of training one million responders in Traffic Incident Management (TIM).

In addition to the work in Washington and Baltimore, I had the honor of speaking during the national Crash Responder Safety Week Kickoff Webinar hosted by the Federal Highway Administration.

This virtual event reached responders across the country and ensured that the towing industry’s perspective was heard on a national platform during one of the most important roadway safety weeks of the year.

FROM POLICY TO PRACTICE AT BALTIMORE

Where Washington set the strategy, Baltimore brought it to life. The American Towman Exposition held in November offered something the public rarely gets to see: free training, advanced fee-based professional courses, and hands-on exposure to the next generation of roadside safety technology. One of the free CRSW-

focused sessions was on “Building Better TIM Units: How Towing Companies Can Develop, Scale, and Operate Specialized TIM Units.”

The seminar covered defensive positioning, PPE, lighting, approach tactics, and behavioral risk reduction strategies tailored specifically for towing operators.

In addition, the AT Expo also delivered professional, fee-based training—advanced certifications, risk-analysis workshops, and tactical courses that go far deeper. Free training saves lives. Professional training builds careers. The industry needs both, and both were front and center in Baltimore.

Bruce Bender, Executive Director of the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA), represented the towing community at the CRSW event in Washington, D.C., ensuring towers have a strong national voice in roadway safety discussions.

TECHNOLOGY—A SECOND • High-visibility LINE OF DEFENSE The AT Expo also showcased the next generation of safety innovations built for roadside responders, including: • Wearable personal warning lights

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

apparel with integrated illumination • Low-profile and directional hazard beacons • Enhanced LED scene lighting • Cone deployment systems

designed to keep operators out of harm’s way • Mobile blocking devices • Camera-assisted loading and winching tools These are not merely gadget

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 49

Deputy Secretary of Transportation Steven G. Bradbury signs the 2025 Crash Responder Safety Week proclamation alongside struck-by survivor Deputy Brad Hughes, reaffirming the Department’s commitment to reducing roadside fatalities and injuries.

upgrades, but life-saving tools that directly reduce struck-by risk. Towing and recovery companies need to have a forward-looking mindset and invest in the same safety innovations that every other responder discipline is implementing.

SDMO LAWS—NOT THE SOLE SOLUTION

The Slow Down, Move Over laws are helpful and essential, but they are not magical measures. Towers know the hard realities that motorists are increasingly distracted by cell phones, impaired, fatigued, speeding, or simply not paying attention. Towman survival depends on training, PPE, lighting, positioning, and safety practices, including: • Regular and frequent training.

• Wear Class 3 PPE every time.

• Adopt helmet and head protection while working roadway incidents.

• Use personal warning lights.

50 • January 2026 | Towman.com

• Position trucks defensively—they are first blockers.

• Stay out of the traffic lane whenever possible.

• Treat every roadside job as high-risk.

A PROGRAM OPERATORS

• Deploy cones intelligently, not symbolically.

• Use scene lighting that illuminates the work, not blinding the eyes of motorists.

FOR

TOW

In Pennsylvania, Traffic Incident Management (TIM) for Towers is a towing-specific training program created because operators face unique hazards. The course includes towing-specific case studies, approach angles, positioning tactics, PPE guidelines, and risk-reduction behavioral strategies. This program is free to operators, and available to tow operators in other states if host partners can help cover travel expenses. It was built by towers, for towers—and is saving lives.

A UNIFIED APPROACH

This year’s Crash Responder

Safety Week showed what happens when towing, fire, EMS, law enforcement, and transportation collaborate—lives can be saved. But unity requires real, tangible action.

Given the tragic losses of towing professionals in recent months and years, their legacy demands more than sympathy.

It demands training, smarter roadside operations, investment in safety technology, and stronger advocacy from within the industry.

Whether we’re in a conference room at the U.S. DOT, in a classroom in Baltimore, or standing on the shoulder of a highway, the mission remains the same: Nobody gets left behind, everyone must go home safely.

In 2025, more than ever, the towing and recovery industry is proving that it will not stand quietly on the sidelines, but will lead from the front.

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Please check out more Wrecker & Rollback inventory at Truckpaper.com-All Roads (Wrecker & Rollbacks) Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 51

Tow Boss

To determine if an additional business location is a good financial move, an astute tow manager understands the basics of the P&L statement of the company’s original location.

Thinking Bigger Territory Tactics That Work

By George Metos

E George Metos has been brokering businesses from his office in Utah since 2012. He founded Tow Broker to focus on the towing industry throughout the U.S. and Canada. https:// w w w. b u s i n e s s b r o k e rgeorge.com/ George can be reached at 801-440-3176 or GeorgeMetos@aol.com

xpanding the territory of a towing operation can be financially rewarding—but only with some careful planning.

Solo tow operators across the country do this all the time, and the national chains have been ramping up lately. The vast majority of towing operations in North America operate from a single location, while the most profitable operations have multiple locations. In nearly every state, a few operators have expanded successfully by taking a chance on growth and demonstrating strong management skills. Understanding how they achieve this is key.

52 • January 2026 | Towman.com

WHY BUILD THE TERRITORY?

The reasons for expansion are simple: increased sales and profits. Towers maintaining multiple locations have increased business simply because more locations generate more paying customers and ultimately, more profits. Even so, it’s not only about volume, but also precise target marketing. Savvy business managers understand which of their services yield the best margins, and continuously look for ways to leverage those services to a larger customer pool.

CUSTOMERS REACTIONS

With additional dispatch locations, a tow company can provide shorter ETAs on scene, which is obviously valuable to customers. They appreciate towers who arrive when they promise, come equipped with the right tools, and most importantly, are trained to handle their vehicles with care. Also, courteous and customer service oriented operators who readily make a difficult situation bearable is always appreciated. Not to be forgotten, is a fair towing charge. Customer will recognize

expansion as a sign of superior towing service.

After all, customers traditionally prefer relying on a few trusted operators who consistently meet their needs, rather than risking inconsistent service from multiple towers. This is especially true for national fleets that may require service or a recovery in hundreds of locations across North America. Rather than juggling multiple towing relationships, they prefer partnering with a dependable network of tow operators whenever possible.

TYPES OF TOWING NETWORKS

Towers with a local network have determined that a good customer base is well-served by two to six facilities located within about a one hundred mile radius. Upon determining the location of the customer, they are able to respond quickly and accordingly.

Most local networks grow either inorganically, by acquiring a retiring operator’s business, or organically by launching new locations from the ground up. This is commonly referred to as “green fielding”. There is no need for a greenfield location to be costly. It can be as simple as an operator or two running a tow truck in an inexpensive rental facility. In some rural areas, it is perfectly legal for a towing location to operate from the owner’s home. As cashflow increases, more resources can be committed to this new location, and eventually moved to a commercial facility.

Regional towing networks operate on a broader scale, serving as expanded versions of local towing operations.

They typically crossover into adjacent states, usually along the interstate, and cover a radius of 200 to 300 miles, or more. This type of network characteristically consists of a combination of both organic and inorganic towing operations.

There are currently ten or so national towing networks operating in several states. These operations favor focus on heavy-duty recovery work to support customers traveling the interstates that corporate customers use every day. The bulk of these national networks are comprised of large, fairly successful towing operations, primarily acquired inorganically by an investment group.

Sometimes it’s strategic to establish a new location in a key area to maintain control of the market before a competitor moves in. This may require acquisition of an existing competitor (“inorganic”), rather than starting a new operation.

Researching highway traffic patterns and the routes most used by key customers is crucial in determining where a strong towing network should be established.

This proactive approach enables an enterprising tower the ability to seize opportunities swiftly and deliberately, expanding their business territory through intelligent deal-making. There are several websites that offer traffic count data, such as the Federal Highway Administration (fhwa.dot.gov/policyinformation/tables/tmasdata/).

Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the towing competition is critical in areas that are being considered for expansion. Evaluate rates, equipment, and reputation through calls, research, or customer feedback. Being well informed about a strong competitor can greatly influence expansion decisions.

Buying out a competing company is certainly one approach, yet can be difficult and costly, and may even prompt consideration from other locations. When a tower clearly understands the competition in their

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GROWTH STRATEGIES

Operators who analyze their business in detail and identify their highest margins areas are best positioned to replicate that success as they expand. Using financial data as evidence of what is truly working, rather than relying on intuition, reduces the risk of a failed expansion. A tow manager must recognize when their operation is ready to expand into a new location.

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 53

Smaller networks usually consolidate financial statements among all locations, but a tow company’s accountant can still isolate the financials for each location.

operational area, they can identify nearby locations with little or no competition, and can be ready to expand as opportunities arise.

EMPLOYEE CONSIDERATIONS

Depending on whether a new location is acquired or built from scratch, personnel may or may not come with this growth. A tow boss needs to plan for the appropriate number of operators and dispatchers.

Finding experienced tow operators is particularly challenging in North America, and there’s virtually no staffing pool of proven managers either. Most tow managers will promote managers from within.

Also, a manager that rewards strong employee performance fosters loyalty within the business.

As a company expands, owners will eventually need to delegate more responsibility to managers and assistant managers. This shift in mindset will be new for owners to adopt, and often an internal HR manager or external consultant can provide valuable support to both owners and managers during the transition. There are also several beneficial courses offered throughout towing industry trade shows and industry publications.

54 • January 2026 | Towman.com

As previously noted, consistent delivery of towing services is essential for success in the towing industry, and is readily accomplished by establishing training programs.

The process may begin with an orientation covering company policies, procedures, and safety practices, followed by hands-on training combined with online or in-person courses to facilitate comprehensive learning.

Some companies pair new operators with experienced ones, beginning with light-duty equipment, and progressing to heavy-duty equipment as appropriate.

Documenting the training process in a company manual, and adhering to it strictly, will help to minimize inconsistencies among staff, reduce damage to customer vehicles, and provides evidence of diligent efforts in the event of legal action.

In addition, observing company policies can lead to lower insurance premiums, as it often results in fewer accident claims.

SHOW ME THE MONEY

Sellers usually won’t offer financing due to the risk of nonpayment. Yet, with a reasonable down payment, and some legal protection for the buyer in the

purchase agreement, a seller may agree to a promissory note with the buyer. There is typically a reasonable interest rate charged for their risk, such as five to seven percent.

Conversely, a tower selling their business that is strong enough to attract several buyers probably won’t discuss any type of seller financing.

As an alternative, bankers may be able to provide capital through the Small Business Administration (SBA) loan program. There are more than 800 SBA approved lenders, which include a mix of banks and credit unions, and over 1,400 certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) across the United States that offer SBA-backed loans. The process of applying for an SBA loan is similar to applying for a home loan. The bank requires the tow company’s financial statement, tax returns and bank records, along with those of the target business, plus P&L statements, balance sheets, equipment lists with current values, and a comprehensive description of the business.

The SBA, which is a thriving business all on its own, was set up to encourage citizens to open businesses by providing loans. Overall, the SBA sustains its operations financially without losing money. Their sound business practice consists of only lending to citizens whom are believed to understand the business they’re buying, are financially qualified, and are buying a business that can generate enough cashflow to service the debt of the new loan, in order to ensure its long term stability.

The maximum SBA loan is about $5M, and dependent upon the type of business being purchased. As of the writing of this article, interest rates are currently in the 9 to 9.5% range, and fluctuate frequently. More information can be found at sba.gov/ funding-programs/loans.

FINANCIAL REALITY CHECK the financials for each location. But A tow company’s cashflow is not necessarily the amount of net income reported to the government for tax purposes. Business owners are motivated to reduce net income to save taxes. So, how does a tow manager and a potential lender determine the true profit of the company?

The two most common metrics utilized by professional financial advisors in this analysis are cashflow and EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization).

A CPA or financial advisor should be able to calculate both of these items. Essentially, their task is to determine how net income would look if the owners did not try to reduce it by acquiring equipment instead of paying taxes, and there were no equipment loans, no perks were paid to the owners, and salaries were not inflated, etc. This does not imply amending a tax return, but instead modeling it on paper to let the buyer and the lender know how much cashflow or EBITDA could potentially be generated.

MEASURE THE RESULTS

To determine if an additional location is a good financial move, an astute tow manager understands the basics of the P&L statement of their original location, and relies upon financial advisors to fill in the gaps. With this knowledge, they can review the performance of additional locations.

A multi-location towing operation does not necessarily require a separate P&L statement for each location. National networks typically separate each location, and may even have a different LLC or corporation for each. But smaller networks usually consolidate financials among all locations. This does not stop a tow company’s accountant from isolating Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

smart tow bosses want to know how the business is doing on a consolidated (combined locations) basis, and also how the individual locations are doing. This requires that the accounting systems are setup properly.

If an operator is able to track revenue and expenses by location, they can develop a model to analyze the financial performance of each location. Data can be entered based on the tow truck(s) used for the job, the dispatch location, or the operator.

There may be some overlap and even some exceptions, but using a consistent method to enter data will yield reliable results. Many towers complain about data being entered improperly, although with some diligence, the errors can be minimized and the results will be very valuable.

Employee salaries, fuel, rent, and some other expenses can certainly be tracked by location. An accountant may advise on allocation of general overhead, dividing it among all locations on a consistent basis, possibly based on revenue. In the end, a good accountant can track the cashflow and EBITDA of the consolidated group of locations, as well as provide a reasonable estimate of the financial performance of each location.

it becomes a powerful tool for the owners and managers to understand if their expansion into a location for a particular type of towing is paying off. Or, if eliminating a certain type of towing with lower margins is worth considering.

Skilled and proficient tow bosses typically perform these calculations frequently, either independently or with the assistance of professionals.

Analyzing the trends will provide the tow manager with insights into what drives value in their business, allowing them to prioritize and build upon these strengths.

Similarly, a competent accountant will understand a tow company’s objectives and recommend systems to facilitate them.

Success in expansion comes not from size alone, but from the strength and vision behind the wheel.

DETAILED REVENUE DATA

The most profitable towing operations have several line items in their P&L for revenue. More than just towing sales, statements will indicate revenue from light-duty, heavy-duty, recoveries, roadside assistance, salvage vehicles sold at auction, hazmat cleanup, etc. Having the ability to examine these numbers over a period of years provides valuable data that may enable a tower to fine tune their operation. If this level of detail is available for each location, AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 55

Towing Legalities

Legal Bulletproofing Shielding a Tow Business from Lawsuits

By Larry Oxenham

Larry Oxenham has been widely published in business magazines, including America Towman, has authored several books and speaks to business owners, professionals, and entrepreneurs through the U.S. and other countries about bulletproofing a business from lawsuits and successful succession.

Larry loves traveling, is a pilot, and a grandfather.

I

t’s a familiar marketing pitch on billboards and the internet: Accident?

Call 1-800-Lawyer! or, We’ve Won $6.5 Million! You pay nothing unless we win!

Lawyers promising riches is the newest “lotto” in America, but only one part of the massive lawsuit industry. Attorneys are smart, aggressive professionals who choose a specialty and know how to maximize the payouts. As one litigation attorney admitted, “I don’t care what I sue you for, if I can get a sympathetic jury, I win.”

Few industries are as susceptible to lawsuits as towing companies, since tow operators drive large trucks, use heavy, high-risk equipment, perform in all kinds of weather conditions 24 hours a day, and are relatively easy for attorneys to locate and sue.

My brother owned a tow company in Los Angeles years ago who took over ownership from a towman who was “…sick and tired of customers and lawyers threatening me every time I turned around.”

The man was so anxious to get out from under the business he sold it with no money down, which meant, in essence, selling it with his own money. The tow company was located on the outskirts of Los Angeles in an area rife with crime, and was often called on to tow repossessed vehicles in dangerous neighborhoods.

As the new owner, my brother was

56 • January 2026 | Towman.com

forced to turn away from jobs more than once because somebody threatened to pull a gun on him, or because a group of men literally circled him and his truck daring him to continue.

“I like my business,” he related. “But not enough to die for it!”

The last straw came when he wanted to sue someone for a substantial unpaid bill, yet his lawyer advised him, “Forget it, it will cost you more to sue than you could win”.

My brother finally figured out that when it comes to lawsuits, only the lawyers win.

This incident prompted a three-decade endeavor of mine, speaking to small business owners throughout America, and sometimes overseas, on asset protection with an emphasis on lawsuit protection and prevention.

Just how prevalent are lawsuits?

America has 4% of the world’s population but 90% of the world’s lawsuits. Which means there is an epidemic of lawsuits in America today, and small business owners are a main target because they have assets, often work in a hazardous industry, and are easy for an attorney to research and sue.

Another reason is that in America, a lawyer can file a lawsuit, or even one hundred lawsuits with no consequences, even if the litigation is frivolous. How often have you heard someone, maybe a business owner say, “I didn’t do anything wrong, but my lawyer told me to settle because it would be cheaper than fighting.”

To make matters worse, the very laws that let lawyers go after towing companies were written by attorneys and rubberstamped by the politicians they donated to.

All of which begs the question of how to counter this epidemic of lawsuits, and avoid becoming a target.

For most small businesses, insurance is the first line of defense against lawsuits, and a necessary part of doing business.

But that raises the critical questions of how much insurance is enough or when it becomes too much.

The reality is that the more insurance a tow company has, the more attractive it is to attorneys. Seems like a vicious circle, doesn’t it?

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 57

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There is, however, a way to bulletproof a tow business and the owner’s personal assets from lawsuits; all without changing the way it does business, and without worrying when the lawsuit is coming.

A tow manager could say to any attorney, “I know you are going to review the public record before suing me, and when you do you will realize you can’t get my property or my money if you win. In fact, even if you win you may be punished financially.”

This is what’s called, “Brushing Your Teeth Legally.” Anyone who’s ever had a toothache knows how debilitating it is; the pain can be unbearable. A lawsuit is like a legal toothache. After receiving a summons, a tow company owner’s time becomes devoted to saving the firm, and running it becomes secondary.

But, as any dentist would advise, “If you do a better job brushing and flossing, you won’t get another toothache.” A simple but effective solution to an expensive problem.

The goal of a tow boss is to operate legally, “brushing and flossing” against lawsuits, and focus on business growth without fearing an attorney’s knock at the door.

Following is the most basic tenet of owning a business: Control everything, but don’t own anything.

This is the strategy employed by virtually every wealthy family and large business, but rarely taught to small business owners. Essentially, it means that the tow boss has absolute authority, but does not legally own the assets.

This is accomplished by understanding that a tow business consists of three basic elements: • Deeds for real estate • Licenses for the business operation • Equity, or value, that can retire you someday Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

For those who own real estate, the deed must be in the state in which the real estate is located.

The same holds true for the license to operate a business, which must be in the state in which it’s operated.

But the equity, which is the difference between what’s owed and the value of your assets, is personal and can be positioned for protection from lawsuits.

For example, if the real estate is owned free and clear, and it is worth $1 million dollars, and the tow business, if sold today, would add another $1 million. It would amount to $2 million of equity, the “reward” for all those sleepless nights of hard work, and hoping to make Friday payroll, or handling employee, equipment, legislative, or other issues that seemed never-ending.

There are four states offering asset, or equity protection: Alaska, Delaware, Nevada and Wyoming.

Each of these states has specific laws designed to help protect a business from lawsuits.

Knowing and using this strategy is so important that about 60% of Fortune 500 companies have a Delaware headquarters, and 90% of Fortune 100 companies maintain a Nevada headquarters.

Delaware was the first state to offer protection, Nevada the second, Alaska and Wyoming followed. (Each has specific advantages that are beyond the scope of this article.)

What are the basic advantages?

The most common legal tool is a very specific Limited Liability Company, or LLC, that is held by and sent to the Resident Agent in the state. It’s a licensed entity in the asset protection state that processes the paperwork.

Simply pay the filing fee, which can be as little as $100, and the equity is now bulletproof from lawsuits.

Each of the four asset protection states offers privacy, since only the Resident Agent appears on the

public record. Even if a tow company gets sued and loses the case, with a properly structured LLC, the physical assets, in all 50 states, cannot be taken.

Also, the person who sued may have to pay any income taxes due for the tow company.

Let that soak in a moment. The people who sued a tow company and won the lawsuit cannot take the assets, and now must pay the taxes.

Realistically, who is going to sue for that? This is the legal equivalent of brushing teeth legally.

In live presentations at American Towman events, my seminars take attendees through a case study that shows exactly how to apply this strategy to every class of asset, both personal and business, and offer eyeopening exercises that gives a tow boss the ability to manage the business confidently, growing or selling it for maximum dollar. This strategy increases in importance as a business grows and as a tow boss ages, because the company’s value usually increases over time. And it is much harder to start over if tow boss loses everything at the age of 60 than at 20.

There are other strategies, of course, including selective use of trusts and insurance, but protecting assets should always be at the top of the list. As one older towman stated after my a seminar, “I wish I had known this when I opened my doors 30 years ago. My business would be much more successful, and I would be looking forward to a great retirement.”

Next to your family, a business is the most important asset, and owning and operating it is the American dream, but it can become a nightmare if an attorney sees it’s an easy target.

Knowing that the equity is protected will give a tow boss the confidence to devote all of their time to building a successful enterprise.

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 59

My Baby

Anytime added an array of lights, not only for shows, but also to make the truck more memorable to customers.

Anytime for a Change How One Man Traded Barstools for Breakdowns

By Steve Temple

H

ere’s an odd variation on an old joke: A man walks into bar— and comes out a towman! It’s actually not a joke though, but instead the real-world background of Chris Higel of Anytime Towing in North Carolina. His parents were in the bar and restaurant business, and while growing up he helped them out, but actually hated it, likening his job to “adult daycare”.

60 • January 2026 | Towman.com

But Chris also worked at a salvage yard handling parts, which turned out to be pretty good preparation for getting into the towing business in Waynesville, NC. He came up with the name, “Anytime Towing” to fit with his enthusiasm for the work.

That was back in 2004, and after he borrowed $10K from his mother, who had sold off the family restaurant a couple years before then, Chris set to work starting his own business. He bought a ’97 Ford F-350 with a twinline Vulcan 894, operating this old wrecker in the mountains of western North Carolina, retrieving vehicles that ran off rural roads and hauling out farm equipment stuck in muddy fields. Chris was entirely self-taught, and had to figure out how to handle recoveries, like the time he winched out a car upside-down in a creek.

Today, in addition to three other tow trucks and carriers, Anytime runs a new Freightliner M2 106 Plus Extended Cab with a Chevron 12-series LCG rollback which really stood out

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS Chassis: 2026 Freightliner M2 106 Plus Extended Cab Engine: Cummins ISB 6.7L 325hp

Transmission: Allison 3000 series automatic transmission Wrecker body: Chevron 12-series LCG (Low Center of Gravity) rollback with Right Approach option

Custom features: Vinyl graphics by Illusion Wraps; 140 Maxxima button lights with dual revolution colors; Underglow lighting system; 14 dual-color strobes; dual-color light bar; lower valence with lighting; lighted grille; Whelen siren and horn blasters; Air Ride seats; Hot Shift PTO winch release with wireless remote; Auto Grip wheel lift; aluminum rails; utility storage step; In the Ditch toolboxes

on the show floor during American Towman’s Exposition in Baltimore last November. The bright green combo of both paint and vinyl by Illusion Wraps was hard to miss, which was his wife Judy’s idea. Previously, Anytime used patriotic stars-and-stripes graphics on their fleet, but other local tow companies had a similar look, so Chris and Judy realized it was time to try something new.

Their hard-to-miss carrier is further brightened up by an Underglow LED system and 140 button lights (count ‘em 140!) provided by Maxxima and installed

by Chevron Commercial.

The illuminated logo on the cab says it all.

The response to this vivid treatment has been extraordinary.

“Absolutely beautiful!” exclaimed one AT Expo attendee. “You nailed it!”

Chris has his own take on this personal treatment: “I treat my tow trucks like my own personal vehicle,” he says. “I like to look neat goin’ down the street.” And that’s not just barroom banter.

Day or night—either is just right for Anytime.

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • 61

Lowdown He knew one’s work is never done. Even after he transitioned into eternal rest, the momentums of his ventures remain ceaseless.

I seek to assure you, and to assure his memory, that his endeavors will continue through me and through my fellow colleagues here at American Towman.

My father leaves you now, with a poem he wrote about what I believe to be the captaining and the spirit of one’s adventurous existence, during and beyond their temporal life, continuing into the unknowable.

Captain Eternity Steven C. Calitri

I

t’s important to know when the time has come. When you make the choice to call it a day and head home, from even your most worthwhile work.

The night becomes solace for our toil.

When my father, Steven Louis Calitri, recently passed in his home, after forgoing chemotherapy, he sensed it time to abandon the known, in favor of the unknown; which, it should be noted, is not only the way he died, but also how he lived. He was a frontiersman, of sorts; not in the sense of a coonskin cap, of course, but in the sense of ever exploring new or yet unknown potential within his industry, which is foremost your industry, you “Tow Bosses” who are reading these words. He was a risk-taker, and I know that many of you reading this are, as well.

In his last days, my father was compelled to speak of the ins and outs of what it means to accept the baton of his legacy, American Towman Media and Expo, and to run with it. He did so while returning the glowing smile to his still greater legacy, his grandson, Kosmo Constantine Calitri, held in my warm arms while listening attentively to his grandfather impart wisdom.

62 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Captain Eternity Each man is his own officer Navigating the rapids That play his hands And roil his outlook White waters he may not escape This mind can zoom back To the first aurora And the first stones Can imagine never-ending distances Or create concepts of universe and time Exert powers of a comic book hero Nimble and immediate flight Spanning centuries of light Millenniums of darkness As the seas lap predictably upon shores I spy the gods of random My existence proof of their winds While I still breathe I fly I am Captain Eternity And when my breath ceases My cape will still fill From these magical gusts

Steven Louis Calitri

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • North 63

News Flash nearly 3,000 truck driver training providers from the federal registry amid a crackdown on so-called CDL mills.

Source: .ttnews.com

Tow Truck Driver Must Pay Nearly $400K

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said New York risks losing up to $73 million due to nondomiciled CDLs issued to immigrants.

CDL Crackdown Puts New York, Minnesota Under Scrutiny

New York and Minnesota could collectively lose more than $100 million in federal highway funding as the U.S. Department of Transportation intensifies enforcement tied to commercial driver’s licenses, training standards, and fraud.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said New York risks losing up to $73 million after a federal review found widespread problems with non-domiciled CDLs issued to immigrants. Investigators found more than half of roughly 200 licenses reviewed were issued improperly, often remaining valid beyond a driver’s authorized work status. The state also could not verify immigration status for about 32,000 active non-domiciled CDLs. New York has 30 days to respond.

The scrutiny comes as state prosecutors pursue a separate CDL fraud case. Seven people, including three DMV employees, were indicted on 51 counts for allegedly helping unqualified applicants obtain CDLs, including using disguises to take tests for others.

Minnesota faces the possible loss of more than $30 million after federal auditors found about one-third of reviewed non-domiciled CDLs were improperly issued. Officials ordered corrective action within 30 days.

Nationwide, USDOT also removed

A Pittsburgh tow truck operator who charged motorists sky-high fees has been ordered to repay nearly $400,000 to insurance companies after pleading guilty to felony insurance fraud and theft by deception.

Allegheny County Judge Randal Todd ruled that Vince Fannick must return $379,000 within 30 days or face time in a state prison. Prosecutors said Fannick preyed on drivers, billing 36 victims between $9,000 and $11,000 for short tows and refusing to release their vehicles until he was paid. His scheme, they said, amounted to holding cars “hostage.”

Judge Todd sentenced Fannick to six months of house arrest followed by five years of probation. As part of the punishment, Fannick must record a public service announcement warning against predatory towing, sell all of his tow trucks, and permanently leave the towing industry.

Source: cbsnews.com

Tow Truck Owner Pleads Guilty to Vehicle Theft Scheme

The owner of towing company in East Greenbush, New York has admitted to stealing and selling vehicles, authorities said. John Rivers, owner of Rivers Asset Recovery, pleaded guilty to second-degree grand larceny. The plea follows a months-long investigation by the New York State Attorney General’s Office. Prosecutors said Rivers abused his towing contracts with local businesses to monitor parking lots throughout the Capital Region. Over nearly two years, he allegedly targeted and removed vehicles without authorization, ultimately stealing 17 cars. According to investigators, Rivers then sold the stolen vehicles to scrap yards or used

North 64 • January 2026 | Towman.com

car dealerships for profit. He was arrested in December 2024 after evidence tied him to the thefts. Rivers is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 5, 2026.

Source: www.wnyt.com

President Trump Announces Revision of CAFE Standards

President Donald Trump announced plans to revise the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for passenger vehicles, an initiative that the administration says will lower costs and improve affordability for American consumers.

Branded “Freedom Means Affordable Cars,” the proposal is projected to save consumers an estimated $109 billion over five years and reduce the average price of a new vehicle by about $1,000.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the revised standards could also improve safety by encouraging more drivers to purchase newer vehicles, potentially preventing more than 1,500 deaths and nearly 250,000 serious injuries through 2050.

The updated rules would return fuel economy targets to levels achievable with conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles, giving automakers greater flexibility. The administration said the revisions align with congressional authority, support consumer choice, and aim to keep vehicles affordable, safe, and accessible for American families.

Source: ttnews.com

Massachusetts Towman Dies in Overpass Crash

Manuel M. De Andrade was killed after his vehicle was struck and sent off an overpass in Freetown, Massachusetts. Massachusetts State Police said the crash occurred around 6:00 p.m. on November 21, on Route 140 South, where troopers responded to reports of a serious collision. An initial investigation found that De Andrade’s

Manuel De Andrade

tow truck was traveling in the left lane when it was hit by a vehicle in the right lane. The impact forced the truck over the guardrail and off the overpass, sending it crashing onto Washburn Road below. The overturned tow truck was fully engulfed in flames moments after the fall. Although firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire, De Andrade died at the scene.

Source: boston25news.com and turnto10.com

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • North 65

Supplier Scoop Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course

The Texas Towing & Storage Association (TTSA) has announced the 24th anniversary of its Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course, in partnership with Miller Industries.

Since its inception, this course has become a cornerstone for heavy-duty professionals seeking world-class training in recovery operations. Over the years, the Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course has drawn students from across the United States and beyond, including participants from Canada, Mexico, and Australia. This comprehensive training program covers critical techniques and safety protocols essential to effective heavy-duty recovery, ensuring professionals are well-equipped to handle challenging scenarios. The upcoming course will feature updated content reflecting the latest advancements in equip-

ment and recovery practices, along with hands-on training sessions led by the expert guidance of Tom Luciano of Miller Industries.

Source: ttsa.org

Cummins Provides Technical Support to Truck Upfitters

Cummins has launched the Power to Build Community, an exclusive online forum designed to help vocational bodybuilders integrate the company’s latest engines, hardware, and software. Fire trucks, ambulances, utility trucks and tow trucks all rely on bodybuilders and truck equipment manufacturers to deliver essential services to millions. By connecting directly with Cummins experts, truck vehicle upfitters gain quick access to product specifications, performance insights, and integration support—

North 66 • January 2026 | Towman.com

while shaping the forum with their own questions and feedback.

Access to such details can be particularly helpful when new powertrains require new chassis and body configurations, as is the case for Cummins’ upcoming B7.2 and X10 diesel engines. Both engines are slated for a 2027 launch and Cummins expects them, along with other new products, to spark interest and feedback from truck vehicle upfitters. This feedback is exactly what the company is counting on to strengthen the Power to Build Community.

Cummins is also rolling out other products designed to improve efficiency. By including Cummins Acumen hardware, users gain access to Connected Solutions, which provides remote diagnostics, predictive technology and over-the-air programming. www.cummins.com

by Don Lomax

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • North 67

North 68 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Episode 55

Copyright©2021 American Towman Magazine. Characters and stories are fictitious; no resemblance to real life characters is intended.

Send your thoughts/suggestions on the Adventures to scalitri@towman.com or American Towman, 2 Overlook Dr #5, Warwick NY 10990

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • South 63

News Flash Tow Truck Driver Must Pay Nearly $400K

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said New York risks losing up to $73 million due to nondomiciled CDLs issued to immigrants.

CDL Crackdown Puts New York, Minnesota Under Scrutiny

New York and Minnesota could collectively lose more than $100 million in federal highway funding as the U.S. Department of Transportation intensifies enforcement tied to commercial driver’s licenses, training standards, and fraud.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said New York risks losing up to $73 million after a federal review found widespread problems with non-domiciled CDLs issued to immigrants. Investigators found more than half of roughly 200 licenses reviewed were issued improperly, often remaining valid beyond a driver’s authorized work status. The state also could not verify immigration status for about 32,000 active non-domiciled CDLs. New York has 30 days to respond.

The scrutiny comes as state prosecutors pursue a separate CDL fraud case. Seven people, including three DMV employees, were indicted on 51 counts for allegedly helping unqualified applicants obtain CDLs, including using disguises to take tests for others.

Minnesota faces the possible loss of more than $30 million after federal auditors found about one-third of reviewed non-domiciled CDLs were improperly issued. Officials ordered corrective action within 30 days.

Nationwide, USDOT also removed nearly 3,000 truck driver training providers from the federal registry amid a crackdown on so-called CDL mills.

Source: .ttnews.com

A Pittsburgh tow truck operator who charged motorists sky-high fees has been ordered to repay nearly $400,000 to insurance companies after pleading guilty to felony insurance fraud and theft by deception.

Allegheny County Judge Randal Todd ruled that Vince Fannick must return $379,000 within 30 days or face time in a state prison. Prosecutors said Fannick preyed on drivers, billing 36 victims between $9,000 and $11,000 for short tows and refusing to release their vehicles until he was paid. His scheme, they said, amounted to holding cars “hostage.”

Judge Todd sentenced Fannick to six months of house arrest followed by five years of probation. As part of the punishment, Fannick must record a public service announcement warning against predatory towing, sell all of his tow trucks, and permanently leave the towing industry.

Source: cbsnews.com

Tow Truck Owner Pleads Guilty to Vehicle Theft Scheme

The owner of towing company in East Greenbush, New York has admitted to stealing and selling vehicles, authorities said. John Rivers, owner of Rivers Asset Recovery, pleaded guilty to second-degree grand larceny. The plea follows a months-long investigation by the New York State Attorney General’s Office. Prosecutors said Rivers abused his towing contracts with local businesses to monitor parking lots throughout the Capital Region. Over nearly two years, he allegedly targeted and removed vehicles without authorization, ultimately stealing 17 cars. According to investigators, Rivers then sold the stolen vehicles to scrap yards or used car dealerships for profit. He was arrested in December 2024 after evidence tied him to the thefts. Rivers is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 5, 2026.

Source: www.wnyt.com

South 64 • January 2026 | Towman.com

President Trump Announces Revision of CAFE Standards

President Donald Trump announced plans to revise the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for passenger vehicles, an initiative that the administration says will lower costs and improve affordability for American consumers. Branded “Freedom Means Affordable Cars,” the proposal is projected to save consumers an estimated $109 billion over five years and reduce the average price of a new vehicle by about $1,000.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the revised standards could also improve safety by encouraging more drivers to purchase newer vehicles, potentially preventing more than 1,500 deaths and nearly 250,000 serious injuries through 2050.

The updated rules would return fuel economy targets to levels achievable with conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles, giving automakers greater flexibility. The administration said the revisions align with congressional authority, support consumer choice, and aim to keep vehicles affordable, safe, and accessible for American families.

Source: ttnews.com

Massachusetts Towman Dies in Overpass Crash

Manuel M. De Andrade was killed after his vehicle was struck and sent off an overpass in Freetown, Massachusetts. Massachusetts State Police said the crash occurred around 6:00 p.m. on November 21, on Route 140 South, where troopers responded to reports of a serious collision. An initial investigation found that De Andrade’s tow truck was traveling in the left lane when it was hit by a vehicle in the right lane.

The impact forced the truck over the guardrail and off the overpass, sending it crashing onto Washburn Road below. The overturned tow truck was fully engulfed in flames moments after the fall. Although firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire, De Andrade died at the scene.

Source: boston25news.com and turnto10.com

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • South 65

Supplier Scoop Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course

The Texas Towing & Storage Association (TTSA) has announced the 24th anniversary of its Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course, in partnership with Miller Industries.

Since its inception, this course has become a cornerstone for heavy-duty professionals seeking world-class training in recovery operations. Over the years, the Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course has drawn students from across the United States and beyond, including participants from Canada, Mexico, and Australia. This comprehensive training program covers critical techniques and safety protocols essential to effective heavy-duty recovery, ensuring professionals are well-equipped to handle challenging scenarios. The upcoming course will feature updated content reflecting the latest advancements in equip-

ment and recovery practices, along with hands-on training sessions led by the expert guidance of Tom Luciano of Miller Industries.

Source: ttsa.org

Cummins Provides Technical Support to Truck Upfitters

Cummins has launched the Power to Build Community, an exclusive online forum designed to help vocational bodybuilders integrate the company’s latest engines, hardware, and software. Fire trucks, ambulances, utility trucks and tow trucks all rely on bodybuilders and truck equipment manufacturers to deliver essential services to millions. By connecting directly with Cummins experts, truck vehicle upfitters gain quick access to product specifications, performance insights, and integration support—

South 66 • January 2026 | Towman.com

while shaping the forum with their own questions and feedback.

Access to such details can be particularly helpful when new powertrains require new chassis and body configurations, as is the case for Cummins’ upcoming B7.2 and X10 diesel engines. Both engines are slated for a 2027 launch and Cummins expects them, along with other new products, to spark interest and feedback from truck vehicle upfitters. This feedback is exactly what the company is counting on to strengthen the Power to Build Community.

Cummins is also rolling out other products designed to improve efficiency. By including Cummins Acumen hardware, users gain access to Connected Solutions, which provides remote diagnostics, predictive technology and over-the-air programming. www.cummins.com

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • South 67

South 68 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Episode 55

Copyright©2021 American Towman Magazine. Characters and stories are fictitious; no resemblance to real life characters is intended.

Send your thoughts/suggestions on the Adventures to scalitri@towman.com or American Towman, 2 Overlook Dr #5, Warwick NY 10990

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • Midwest 63

News Flash nearly 3,000 truck driver training providers from the federal registry amid a crackdown on so-called CDL mills.

Source: .ttnews.com

Tow Truck Driver Must Pay Nearly $400K

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said New York risks losing up to $73 million due to nondomiciled CDLs issued to immigrants.

CDL Crackdown Puts New York, Minnesota Under Scrutiny

New York and Minnesota could collectively lose more than $100 million in federal highway funding as the U.S. Department of Transportation intensifies enforcement tied to commercial driver’s licenses, training standards, and fraud.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said New York risks losing up to $73 million after a federal review found widespread problems with non-domiciled CDLs issued to immigrants. Investigators found more than half of roughly 200 licenses reviewed were issued improperly, often remaining valid beyond a driver’s authorized work status. The state also could not verify immigration status for about 32,000 active non-domiciled CDLs. New York has 30 days to respond.

The scrutiny comes as state prosecutors pursue a separate CDL fraud case. Seven people, including three DMV employees, were indicted on 51 counts for allegedly helping unqualified applicants obtain CDLs, including using disguises to take tests for others.

Minnesota faces the possible loss of more than $30 million after federal auditors found about one-third of reviewed non-domiciled CDLs were improperly issued. Officials ordered corrective action within 30 days.

Nationwide, USDOT also removed

A Pittsburgh tow truck operator who charged motorists sky-high fees has been ordered to repay nearly $400,000 to insurance companies after pleading guilty to felony insurance fraud and theft by deception.

Allegheny County Judge Randal Todd ruled that Vince Fannick must return $379,000 within 30 days or face time in a state prison. Prosecutors said Fannick preyed on drivers, billing 36 victims between $9,000 and $11,000 for short tows and refusing to release their vehicles until he was paid. His scheme, they said, amounted to holding cars “hostage.”

Judge Todd sentenced Fannick to six months of house arrest followed by five years of probation. As part of the punishment, Fannick must record a public service announcement warning against predatory towing, sell all of his tow trucks, and permanently leave the towing industry.

Source: cbsnews.com

Tow Truck Owner Pleads Guilty to Vehicle Theft Scheme

The owner of towing company in East Greenbush, New York has admitted to stealing and selling vehicles, authorities said. John Rivers, owner of Rivers Asset Recovery, pleaded guilty to second-degree grand larceny. The plea follows a months-long investigation by the New York State Attorney General’s Office. Prosecutors said Rivers abused his towing contracts with local businesses to monitor parking lots throughout the Capital Region. Over nearly two years, he allegedly targeted and removed vehicles without authorization, ultimately stealing 17 cars. According to investigators, Rivers then sold the stolen vehicles to scrap yards or used

Midwest 64 • January 2026 | Towman.com

car dealerships for profit. He was arrested in December 2024 after evidence tied him to the thefts. Rivers is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 5, 2026.

Source: www.wnyt.com

President Trump Announces Revision of CAFE Standards

President Donald Trump announced plans to revise the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for passenger vehicles, an initiative that the administration says will lower costs and improve affordability for American consumers.

Branded “Freedom Means Affordable Cars,” the proposal is projected to save consumers an estimated $109 billion over five years and reduce the average price of a new vehicle by about $1,000.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the revised standards could also improve safety by encouraging more drivers to purchase newer vehicles, potentially preventing more than 1,500 deaths and nearly 250,000 serious injuries through 2050.

The updated rules would return fuel economy targets to levels achievable with conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles, giving automakers greater flexibility. The administration said the revisions align with congressional authority, support consumer choice, and aim to keep vehicles affordable, safe, and accessible for American families.

Source: ttnews.com

Massachusetts Towman Dies in Overpass Crash

Manuel M. De Andrade was killed after his vehicle was struck and sent off an overpass in Freetown, Massachusetts. Massachusetts State Police said the crash occurred around 6:00 p.m. on November 21, on Route 140 South, where troopers responded to reports of a serious collision. An initial investigation found that De An-

◀

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • Midwest 65

Manuel De Andrade

drade’s tow truck was traveling in the left lane when it was hit by a vehicle in the right lane. The impact forced the truck over the guardrail and off the overpass, sending it crashing onto Washburn Road below. The overturned tow truck was fully engulfed in flames moments after the fall. Although firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire, De Andrade died at the scene.

Source: boston25news.com and turnto10.com

Midwest 66 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Supplier Scoop Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course

The Texas Towing & Storage Association (TTSA) has announced the 24th anniversary of its Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course, in partnership with Miller Industries.

Since its inception, this course has become a cornerstone for heavy-duty professionals seeking world-class training in recovery operations. Over the years, the Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course has drawn students from across the United States and beyond, including participants from Canada, Mexico, and Australia. This comprehensive training program covers critical techniques and safety protocols essential to effective heavy-duty recovery, ensuring professionals are well-equipped to handle challenging scenarios. The upcoming course will feature updated content reflecting the latest advancements in equipment and recovery practices, along with hands-on training sessions led by the expert guidance of Tom Luciano of Miller Industries.

Source: ttsa.org

New Trailer Sales Manager at Trail-Eze

After three decades in heavy-haul trailer manufacturing, Chris Pokornowski is stepping into a new chapter in his career as Trailer Sales Manager at Trail-Eze based in Mitchell, South Dakota. With a career span of 30 years, Chris has been deeply involved in every aspect of trailer operations from design and engineering to quality control, ensuring that each product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability.

His extensive hands-on experience gives him a unique advantage in understanding customer needs and delivering solutions that work in the most demanding environments. In his new role, Chris will focus on building strong client relationships and providing tailored equipment solutions that maximize productivity and value.

Source: traileze.com

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • Midwest 67

Midwest 68 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Episode 55

Copyright©2021 American Towman Magazine. Characters and stories are fictitious; no resemblance to real life characters is intended.

Send your thoughts/suggestions on the Adventures to scalitri@towman.com or American Towman, 2 Overlook Dr #5, Warwick NY 10990

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • West 63

News Flash fusing to release their vehicles until he was paid. His scheme, they said, amounted to holding cars “hostage.”

Judge Todd sentenced Fannick to six months of house arrest followed by five years of probation. As part of the punishment, Fannick must record a public service announcement warning against predatory towing, sell all of his tow trucks, and permanently leave the towing industry.

Source: cbsnews.com

Tow Truck Owner Pleads Guilty to Vehicle Theft Scheme

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said New York risks losing up to $73 million due to nondomiciled CDLs issued to immigrants.

CDL Crackdown Puts New York, Minnesota Under Scrutiny

New York and Minnesota could collectively lose more than $100 million in federal highway funding as the U.S. Department of Transportation intensifies enforcement tied to commercial driver’s licenses, training standards, and fraud.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said New York risks losing up to $73 million after a federal review found widespread problems with non-domiciled CDLs issued to immigrants. Investigators found more than half of roughly 200 licenses reviewed were issued improperly, often remaining valid beyond a driver’s authorized work status. The state also could not verify immigration status for about 32,000 active non-domiciled CDLs. New York has 30 days to respond.

The scrutiny comes as state prosecutors pursue a separate CDL fraud case. Seven people, including three DMV employees, were indicted on 51 counts for allegedly helping unqualified applicants obtain CDLs,

including using disguises to take tests for others.

Minnesota faces the possible loss of more than $30 million after federal auditors found about one-third of reviewed non-domiciled CDLs were improperly issued. Officials ordered corrective action within 30 days.

Nationwide, USDOT also removed nearly 3,000 truck driver training providers from the federal registry amid a crackdown on socalled CDL mills.

Source: .ttnews.com

Tow Truck Driver Must Pay Nearly $400K

A Pittsburgh tow truck operator who charged motorists sky-high fees has been ordered to repay nearly $400,000 to insurance companies after pleading guilty to felony insurance fraud and theft by deception.

Allegheny County Judge Randal Todd ruled that Vince Fannick must return $379,000 within 30 days or face time in a state prison. Prosecutors said Fannick preyed on drivers, billing 36 victims between $9,000 and $11,000 for short tows and re-

West 64 • January 2026 | Towman.com

The owner of towing company in East Greenbush, New York has admitted to stealing and selling vehicles, authorities said. John Rivers, owner of Rivers Asset Recovery, pleaded guilty to second-degree grand larceny. The plea follows a months-long investigation by the New York State Attorney General’s Office. Prosecutors said Rivers abused his towing contracts with local businesses to monitor parking lots throughout the Capital Region.

Over nearly two years, he allegedly targeted and removed vehicles without authorization, ultimately stealing 17 cars. According to investigators, Rivers then sold the stolen vehicles to scrap yards or used car dealerships for profit. He was arrested in December 2024 after evidence tied him to the thefts. Rivers is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 5, 2026.

Source: www.wnyt.com

President Trump Announces Revision of CAFE Standards

President Donald Trump announced plans to revise the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for passenger vehicles, an initiative that the administration says will lower costs and improve affordability for American consumers.

Branded “Freedom Means Affordable Cars,” the proposal is project-

ed to save consumers an estimated $109 billion over five years and reduce the average price of a new vehicle by about $1,000.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the revised standards could also improve safety by encouraging more drivers to purchase newer vehicles, potentially preventing more than 1,500 deaths and nearly 250,000 serious injuries through 2050.

The updated rules would return fuel economy targets to levels achievable with conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles, giving automakers greater flexibility. The administration said the revisions align with congressional authority, support consumer choice, and aim to keep vehicles affordable, safe, and accessible for American families.

Source: ttnews.com

Work the non-traffic side - Stay Safe!

Massachusetts Towman Dies in Overpass Crash

Manuel M. De Andrade was killed after his vehicle was struck and sent off an overpass in Freetown, Massachusetts. Massachusetts State Police said the crash occurred around

6:00 p.m. on November 21, on Route 140 South, where troopers responded to reports of a serious collision.

An initial investigation found that De Andrade’s tow truck was traveling in the left lane when it was hit by a vehicle in the right lane. The impact forced the truck over the guardrail and off the overpass, sending it crashing onto Washburn Road below. The overturned tow truck was fully engulfed in flames moments after the fall. Although firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire, De Andrade died at the scene.

Source: boston25news.com and turnto10.com

Find us on Facebook Manuel De Andrade

Read more towing news at towman.com

AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • West 65

Supplier Scoop Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course

The Texas Towing & Storage Association (TTSA) has announced the 24th anniversary of its Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course, in partnership with Miller Industries.

Since its inception, this course has become a cornerstone for heavy-duty professionals seeking world-class training in recovery operations. Over the years, the Advanced Heavy-Duty Recovery Course has drawn students from across the United States and beyond, including participants from Canada, Mexico, and Australia. This comprehensive training program covers critical techniques and safety protocols essential to effective heavy-duty recovery, ensuring professionals are well-equipped to handle challenging scenarios. The upcoming course will feature updated content reflecting the latest advancements in equipment and re-

covery practices, along with handson training sessions led by the expert guidance of Tom Luciano of Miller Industries.

Source: ttsa.org

New Trailer Sales Manager at Trail-Eze

After three decades in heavy-haul trailer manufacturing, Chris Pokornowski is stepping into a new chapter in his career as Trailer Sales Manager at Trail-Eze based in Mitchell, South Dakota. With a career span of 30 years, Chris has been deeply involved in every aspect of trailer operations from design and engineering to quality control, ensuring that each product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. His extensive hands-on experience gives him a unique advantage in understanding customer needs

West 66 • January 2026 | Towman.com

and delivering solutions that work in the most demanding environments.

In his new role, Chris will focus on building strong client relationships and providing tailored equipment solutions that maximize productivity and value.

Source: traileze.com

Cummins Provides Technical Support to Truck Upfitters

Cummins has launched the Power to Build Community, an exclusive online forum designed to help vocational bodybuilders integrate the company’s latest engines, hardware, and software. Fire trucks, ambulances, utility trucks and tow trucks all rely on bodybuilders and truck equipment manufacturers to deliver essential services to millions. By connecting directly with Cummins experts, truck vehicle upfitters gain quick access to product specifications, performance insights, and integration support—while shaping the forum with their own questions and feedback.

Access to such details can be particularly helpful when new powertrains require new chassis and body configurations, as is the case for Cummins’ upcoming B7.2 and X10 diesel engines.

Both engines are slated for a 2027 launch and Cummins expects them, along with other new products, to spark interest and feedback from truck vehicle upfitters. This feedback is exactly what the company is counting on to strengthen the Power to Build Community.

Cummins is also rolling out other products designed to improve efficiency. By including Cummins Acumen hardware, users gain access to Connected Solutions, which provides remote diagnostics, predictive technology and over-the-air programming. www.cummins.com

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AmericanTowman.com | January 2026 • West 67

West 68 • January 2026 | Towman.com

Episode 55

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