American Towman Magazine - September 2025

By Steve Temple

Calitri

The Walkaround

Dennie Ortiz Publisher

Towing Intelligence

There is no denying the prevalence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in many aspects of life today. In the past, when I asked a question through my internet browser, the result would be links to various sources to find the information I requested. Now, when I query Google, the first answer I receive is generated by Google AI.

AI is not what lies ahead; it is here now, and it’s here to stay. In the June 2025 issue of American Towman,

we featured an article highlighting how AI is reshaping the way consumers discover services online, and why business owners need to understand these changes to stay competitive.

Continuing on this important topic, contributing writer Brian Walters (and attorney for the Southwest Tow Operators State Association) shares his insights on the various benefits of harnessing the power of AI to assist in many areas of a towing business, from reducing billing disputes to ensuring legal compliance.

Another field that requires immediate attention from tow business owners and operators is the safe handling, recovery, and storage of electric vehicles (EVs). Not that long ago, the widespread use of EVs on the roadway was considered a challenge for the future. This is no longer something on the horizon, it’s a reality we’re currently dealing with.

While on the subject of EV’s and recoveries, Operations Editor Randy Resch reviews a recovery approach of a Tesla sedan. He discusses the techniques he feels would be the most suitable for this job, while pointing out areas where the recovery could go terribly wrong.

Recovery is but one aspect of the difficulties with electric vehicles; contending with the storage of damaged EVs is another area altogether that requires deliberate planning. David Rottinghaus of Zip’s/AW Direct offers solutions on how to mitigate the risk that compromised EVs bring to your tow lot. David recommends a one-of-a-kind product that safely contains these vehicles, and even more, describes how you can legally and fairly bill for this upscaled storage.

Hope you enjoy reading through the articles and viewing the glamor shots of tow trucks in this month’s Classic Wrecker and My Baby departments.

As always, stay safe out there!

Steve Temple Editor

Do You Network?

In our August 2025 cover feature, “Poison Control”, we were impressed by how well two separate tow companies were able to work together to manage a difficult recovery. We’ve come across this type of effective cooperation several times before, and we applaud the approach. As an analogy, a fist is much stronger than a single index finger in overcoming challenging obstacles. Our “Masters of Chaos” features also drive home the point.

With this in mind, we’re planning an article in an upcoming issue highlighting various examples of networking between tow companies, and we’d like to

hear of similar experiences, including both the benefits and potential pitfalls. And we won’t be limiting this article solely to recoveries, as examples of networking could also include lobbying efforts for better towing legislation, and/or community outreach events such as charity fundraisers. So, if your tow firm worked well with another tower, please let us know, and send info and photos to either myself, or our publisher’s assistant, Stephanie Marchese by October 1, 2025: stemple@towman.com stephanie@towman.com

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New Arkansas Laws Aim to Improve Roadside Safety

On August 5, several new Arkansas laws officially took effect. Among them are key updates aimed at improving work-zone safety for road crews and emergency responders.

“It can be fast, and it can be dangerous,” said David Stinnett, District 6 Maintenance Engineer with ARDOT. “Our folks are often just feet away from traffic while repairing roads or mowing grass.”

The new law doubles fines in mobile work zones, and requires all ARDOT construction and maintenance vehicles to use green flashing lights.

Tim Moody, General Manager of JHook Towing, supports the changes. “Tow truck operators on the side of the highway... we lose one every six days across America,” he said. “Just slow down and move over.”

Source: thv11.com

Milwaukee

to

Notify Drivers Before Towing for Tickets

Milwaukee drivers will soon get a warning before their vehicles are towed for unpaid parking tickets. The Common Council passed an ordinance requiring the city to mail warning letters to residents who’ve accumulated multiple violations.

The measure, backed by Mayor Cavalier Johnson, gives drivers a 60day deadline to either pay their fines or set up a payment plan before their cars are at risk of being towed.

Currently, no notice is given before a vehicle is impounded. Alderman Scott Spiker, who authored the legislation, said the change will help reduce financial shocks.

More than 4,000 vehicles were towed last year. The city will spend an estimated $30,000 to notify 20,000 violators. A start date for the warning letters has not yet been announced.

Source: tmj4.com

Push Back on New BAR Towing Regulation

Collision repair shops and the California Autobody Association (CAA) are questioning a new towing regulation from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), citing confusion and increased paperwork. The rule, which took effect July 1, requires towing services to be documented separately from repair estimates and invoices—even when related to teardown procedures.

Previously, towing could be included as a sublet item within a single estimate. Now, shops must issue separate documents, which industry representatives say adds unnecessary administrative burden and confuses customers.

CAA attorney Jack Molodanof said many shops were blindsided by the change, which was quietly included in BAR’s broader teardown disclosure regulations. BAR officials said the revision was made to align with a 2009 vehicle code requiring towing estimates

to be separate, but admitted the requirement had never been enforced.

After more than two hours of discussion, BAR acknowledged the need for further clarification and said a public workshop may be held. In the meantime, the agency has updated its “Write It Right” guide to help shops navigate the changes. Another meeting is scheduled for October 23.

Source: repairerdrivennews.com

Illinois Bans Towing Solicitation at Accident Scenes

A new Illinois law bans towtruck operators from stopping at accident scenes to solicit business, a move state officials say will improve safety and protect drivers. Governor Pat Quinn signed House Bill 4860 into law, prohibiting tow operators from approaching crash victims unless requested by the driver or law enforcement.

“This law helps protect the rights of Illinois’ motorists and will improve safety on our roads,” said Governor Quinn. “We must do everything we can to keep our drivers safe, especially

when they find themselves in a vulnerable situation.”

Illinois Department of Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig praised the measure, saying, “This will help ensure a safer and more controlled environment at the scene of an accident.”

Previously, tow-truck operators could approach and solicit stranded motorists. Under the new law, they must wait to be called by police or the vehicle’s owner or operator.

Source: illinois.gov

Collision repair shops voice concerns over a new California BAR regulation.

A new Illinois law bars tow operators from soliciting business at crash scenes.

Senate Confirms Molinaro

as

FTA Administrator

The U.S. Senate confirmed former Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-N.Y.) as Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration just before the August recess. Molinaro, once a member of the transportation panel, will help lead Secretary Sean Duffy’s vision to “Make Transit Safe Again.”

“I am grateful to President Trump for placing his trust in me,” Molinaro said. “I am committed to supporting our nation’s public transportation systems and ensuring a safer, more accessible and better-connected America.”

of Transportation nominees await Senate floor votes, including Derek Barrs for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Barrs, a former Florida Highway Patrol chief, emphasized data-driven enforcement and stronger state collaboration.

Marc Molinaro, newly confirmed Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration, pledges to “Make Transit Safe Again.”

Secretary Duffy praised the appointment, calling Molinaro’s leadership a key asset in ushering in a “golden age of transit.”

Meanwhile, several Department

“We must take a hard look at the impacts that passenger vehicles continue to play in commercial motor vehicle-related crashes,” Barrs said. “We must look for new ways to significantly reduce crashes on our roadways, thinking outside the box and collaborating with all stakeholders.”

The American Trucking Associations endorsed Barrs, citing his decades of public safety leadership.

Source: ttnews.com

Tow Community Honors Fallen Operator Tim Reese

The Sunshine State Towing Association (SSTA) has announced the passing of longtime tow operator and respected community member, Tim Reese. Known for his dedication, courage, and compassion, Reese served his community with pride and was deeply admired by fellow operators and friends across Florida.

Tow operators were encouraged to arrive in their trucks and wear company colors or towing gear as a show of unity and respect at a procession on August 2nd, followed by a gathering to reflect on Reese’s life and service.

“No tow operator is ever forgotten,” the SSTA said in a statement.

Fuel Taxes Ups and Downs

As of July 1, fuel tax adjustments left drivers in ten states paying more at the pump, while three states saw small cuts. California drivers face some of the steepest costs, with combined diesel taxes hitting 97.1 cents per gallon after a state-mandated hike. Republican lawmakers urged Gov. Gavin Newsom to suspend the increase, citing fuel costs well above the national average, but Newsom defended the tax as vital for road repairs.

Connecticut, Kentucky and Maryland saw declines due to tax formulas tied to fuel prices or inflation. Elsewhere, increases in states including Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Virginia and Washington aim to fund infrastructure. Washington enacted one of the largest hikes, raising gasoline taxes to 55.4 cents and diesel to 58.4 cents per gallon.

Source: ttnews.com

Entrepreneur Gains Press for Towing Growth

Mustafe Abdulahi, a Somali refugee who spent 21 years in an Ethiopian camp, is now gaining recognition in St. Cloud, Minnesota as a growing entrepreneur. After arriving in the U.S. in 2012, Abdulahi opened three businesses, the latest being Central Towing Service, which has grown to three trucks and four employees.

“I had a dream of owning a business for a long, long time,” said Abdulahi, 37, who started out in St. Cloud as a janitor before attending technical college and launching Samataar Wireless in 2015. He later opened Jijiga Restaurant and, in 2023, bought his first tow truck.

Abdulahi enjoys helping people. He recalled personally driving a stranded traveler to the airport after towing her rental car.

“Ninety percent of the time you’re making the day of someone, every day,” he said.

A self-described risk-taker, Abdulahi credits his journey to perseverance. “It worked for me, very well,” he said. “I was very happy to come here, to be able to get a life change.”

Source: stcloudlive.com

Tow operators line up in their trucks for a final ride in honor of Tim Reese.

road Tools

Fill ‘Er Up!

Take your Ford or Ram cab & chassis to the next level with the Titan Fuel Tank’s latest innovation: the XXL Cab & Chassis midship replacement tanks. Whether a tow company is tackling an extensive recovery, handling remote casualty vehicles, or hauling a long transport job, this tank ensures a tow truck has the fuel capacity needed to get the job done efficiently and effectively.

Crafted from military-grade, cross-linked polymer material, this tank sets a new standard for durability and reliability. With a thickness of at least 1/4 inch, it’s built to last, standing strong against the toughest conditions. Tougher than steel and more durable than aluminum, this tank is engineered to exceed expectations. This new design has undergone rigorous testing to ensure unparalleled quality and performance. Backed by a Lifetime Warranty, a tower can trust that Titan products are durable, and provide the peace of mind to tackle any task with confidence. Don’t settle for lesser quality, outdated metal fuel tanks. Elevate a Ford or Ram Cab & Chassis vehicle with Titan’s superior midship replacement tank and experience the difference in workmanship.

EV Disabling Tool

The Eyes Have It

Durable eye protection is essential when handling recoveries, and with Ergodyne’s safety glasses, a tow operator can look good as well. This has always been the the thinking that drives safety work gear manufacturer Ergodyne. From clean, classic silhouettes to bolder, blade-style frames, these eyeglasses bring some style to the job site, along with serious safety and comfort. Leading the launch of Skullerz eye protection is Sixten, a frame that merges everyday wearability with job site durability. Optional polarized mirrored lenses cut through glare and reduce eye strain, while upgraded FogOff+ tech keeps vision clear in high-humidity or extreme temperature shifts. Returning with additional options is Aegir, a favorite among workers for its aggressive wraparound style. Now with high-contrast, color-enhancing lens options and new frame colors, it’s built for both sharp looks and sharper vision. Both Sixten and Aegir are built and designed with an intense focus on real-world function, like the rest of Ergodyne’s line of eyewear.

In recovery situations, an EV (electric vehicle) may appear to be inactive, yet is still charged up, posing risks to responders and tow operators. The Midtronics xIM-100 Immobilizer locks out the propulsion system, ensuring the vehicle remains stationary. Instant visual verification confirms it is safe to approach the vehicle. Designed for first responders, law enforcement, EV technicians, and roadside tow operators, this unit is simple, fast, and universal across all vehicle types. It has no direct contact with high-voltage systems, and works in any charge port, while maintaining power to essential systems such as the windows, seats, and lights.

Along with the Immobilizer, Midtronics offers the xVT-1000 Surface Voltage Tester for a quick check of compromised EVs and HV components before touching, servicing, or dismantling in order to support workplace safety. In addition, Midtronic’s offers the MVT handheld battery tester for an accurate diagnosis of a battery’s electrical condition.

Zoom In

Royal Treatment

Including an “Incident Response Vehicle” (IRV) from Royal Truck as part of a towing company’s safety program is a smart decision for traffic management and for protecting operators. With live traffic speeding by just feet away from crews on the ground, the IRV gives workers the protection they need to get the job done safely.

The truck is equipped with an attenuator, a device that absorbs impact in its strut and cartridge sections when hit. This unit serves as a buffer between oncoming traffic and workers on scene. Depending on the speed of traffic, the attenuator can be either a Scorpion II Metro (for speeds up to 50 mph) or Scorpion II TMA (rated for 62.5 mph). In addition, an arrow board is included for directing oncoming traffic away from the job site.

Other practical features include lockable storage compartments for transporting equipment to and from the roadside scene, along with lighting for nighttime operations. The IRV can also easily be upgraded with safetyenhancing technology such as message/ radar boards and connected hazard/ flashing lights. The latter option broadcasts work zone data directly to popular navigation apps such as Waze and Apple Maps, warning drivers ahead of time to slow down and move over, or seek an alternate route.

range of service bodies, known for their durability. Rental trucks and loaners are available as well.

Royal Truck Body specializes in service truck bodies for work trucks, utility trucks, and commercial vehicles. The company offers a wide

Investigate

Braking Developments

Troubleshooting Insights for Air Brakes

Courtesy of Bendix

With winter weather just a few months away, it’s a good time to review the braking system of your tow truck, and prepare for the slippery roads ahead. This edition of the Bendix Tech Tips Series addresses four of the most common maintenance questions that the Bendix Tech Team has recently addressed. The Bendix Tech Team is an expert technical support group providing service advice, brake system diagnostics, and product education.

WHAT IF MY AIR SYSTEM IS SLOW TO BUILD PRESSURE?

“Air systems have gotten more

complex and interconnected as they’ve been tasked with delivering clean, dry air to more and more vehicle systems, and this has led to some misconceptions about maintenance and troubleshooting,” points out Brian Screeton, Bendix’s manager of sales technical training. “But the basic operation of the compressed air system itself is relatively easy to understand, and with a little patience and due diligence, you can often save yourself some real headaches in the shop.”

Screeton noted that it’s important to look for smaller problems with simpler fixes before jumping into the process of a major repair. In

this particular case, technicians troubleshooting the air buildup need to make sure to check the discharge line between the air compressor and the dryer.

This connection can become restricted by carbon accumulation or develop pin holes that will cause a slow- or no-build situation regardless of the condition of the compressor. Most important, it will only leak when the engine is running, so it is hard to hear and troubleshoot without using soapy water while the engine is running. Unfortunately, it’s often the last thing checked after time and money have already been spent installing a new compressor or dryer.

WHY IS THE FOOT VALVE LEAKING WITH NO FOOT ON THE PEDAL?

This is another situation where

air system problems which may require simpler fixes before diving into a major repair.

it’s easy to leap to replacement of the foot valve, because that seems to make the most sense when air is coming out of that exhaust port when the pedal isn’t being pressed.

“The truth is this issue isn’t typically caused by a bad foot valve at all,” Screeton notes. “It’s usually an air back-feed from

another valve that is taking the quickest path to exhaust.”

In this case, the proper move before replacing the foot valve is to remove all its delivery lines and check to see which, if any, has air coming out. Once that’s determined, technicians can follow the line(s) back toward the real problem.

WHY IS THE DRIVE AXLE SERVICE RELAY VALVE/ TRACTION CONTROL VALVE LEAKING WHEN THE PARKING BRAKE IS RELEASED?

This issue understandably can be confusing; but again, it’s important to thoroughly inspect and troubleshoot before replacing the relay valve. While that may be the one that is audibly leaking, this issue is most often caused by a failed brake chamber center seal, or a leaking double-check valve for anticompounding.

Diagnosing the leak begins by removing all delivery lines from the Service Relay or Traction Control valve and checking to see which, if any, is exhausting air. Then, with the vehicle wheels chocked, release the parking brake. If one or more brake chambers is leaking, then one or more of the delivery lines will begin to back-feed air out of a disconnected line(s). Trace the line to the source of the back feed.

The root cause of the leak may potentially be due to a faulty anticompounding feature in the parking valve—not a failed brake chamber center seal. As a result, conducting the line tracing process can help detect and identify the suspect valve.

WHAT’S CAUSING THE CALIBRATION ERROR WITH MY FORWARD-FACING CAMERA?

Technologies like the family of Bendix Fusion ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) typically include forward-facing cameras to collect the information that helps enable collision mitigation, lanedeparture warnings, and other capabilities. These cameras must be properly positioned and accurately mounted on the inside of a vehicle’s windshield to function properly and comply with regulations

Leaks aren’t always the result of a failed brake chamber. The line-tracing process can help locate faulty valves.

Forward-facing camera components in advanced driver assistance systems need to comply with obstruction regulations and must be positioned properly to function effectively.

addressing in-cab obstructions of a driver’s view.

“It’s not uncommon for us to get calls about error codes related to the image processor and calibration,” notes Chad Benesh, supervisor of the Bendix technical support team. “And most of the time, it turns out that the mounting bracket that holds the camera is simply not installed properly.”

This is an easy fix, but it’s got to be done right. Refer to the Service Data Sheet and use measurements to make sure that the bracket is in the correct place and held in place using only the adhesive that it comes with. Attaching the bracket with tape or a hook-andloop closure material may not seem like it would make a difference, but it’s often found to be the cause of these error codes.

Have your own questions? Contact the Bendix Tech Team at 1-800-AIR-BRAKE (1-800-247-2725), option 2. You can find complete maintenance and troubleshooting information in the library of Service Data Sheets and Technical Bulletins located at B2Bendix.com and bendix.com.

Billboards on Wheels

George L. Nitti has written for American Towman since 2009. He started out as a news writer and now writes a weekly feature on TowIndustryWeek.com, Tow Illustrated, which spotlights the tow truck graphics.

Hooked on Great Graphics

By George L. Nitti

In the towing industry, while a truck’s weight, winch power, and recovery capabilities determine utility, the graphics enhances a company’s image and growth. Towing companies invest in custom-painted wreckers and elaborate wraps not only for a snazzy style, but also as strategic business decisions. These rolling works of art double as billboards

At 201 Service Towing in Maine, the company’s vivid imagery extends beyond its fleet and into its reception area, along with various customer touch points such as pens, notepads, and stickers. This unified approach creates an easily remembered customer experience that reinforces the company’s brand identity.

on wheels, building brand identity and facilitating tangible financial returns.

Over the years, American Towman magazine has showcased a wide variety of these unique designs, but in this feature we will go beyond the surface and take a deeper look at the artistry, trends, and stories behind the graphics that make these trucks stand out on the road.

VISUALS DRIVE REVENUE

At L.W.’s Towing in Frisco, Texas, the company’s purple-and-green Freightliner M2 is one of many units that serve as a conversation starter, a head-turner, and a consistent brand promoter. Its custom ◀

Expert Opinions on Vinyl Wrapping

My name is Marcos with Retro-Spec Printing, and I’ve been wrapping for a little over 15 years, starting in my teens. Tow truck wraps are now becoming more extravagant. As the days of handpainted pinstriping are dying out, flashy wraps are the new norm.

When it comes to tow trucks and graphics, it’s pretty complex, because there is a lot involved in creating a quality wrap and design. First off, there are many different versions of vehicle wraps and graphics.

Decals are standard door stickers in one-color vinyl, or printed designs. Then there are partial wraps which usually cover between 40 to 60% of the truck. Lastly, a full wrap has two options: A full printed wrap, or a full wrap in a desired color, such as cherry red, with decals laid over. Recently, more and more tow companies are showing interest in full printed vehicle wraps with strong graphics.

Wrapping a tow truck starts with a design concept, the most important part of the whole process. We like to get as much information as possible from color choices to company history and even old logos, so that we can get the initial design sample as close as possible to a customer’s vision.

In some cases, the actual model of truck depicts what type of design is best and ends up being the deciding factor on lines and style. Once the back-and-forth emails on design and wrap style are finalized and approved, we meet with the customer to do a walkaround of the tow truck and discuss things like laying the vinyl, and what parts will need to be removed prior to install. At this point, final ideas are presented,

and whether adding reflective vinyl or other specialized treatments are something they would want to include. In our opinion, all tow truck wraps should have reflective vinyl for the extra wow factor and nighttime visibility to enhance roadside safety.

Upon design approval files are prepared for printing and for ordering all required vinyl. All printed wraps must be laminated to protect the ink from the elements. Only the highest quality vinyl is used to ensure good adhesion, good stretch, good color clarity, and good gloss finish. Wraps have to be cared for properly to ensure a long lifespan, either through shaded parking, ceramic coating, or proper maintenance washes, but it all starts with good quality vinyl.

Next, the install starts with full disassembly and vehicle prep, removing as many parts as possible to ensure the vinyl is seamless, and fully degreasing using isopropyl alcohol to ensure maximum adhesion.

With wrapping, it is always smart to keep an eye on ambient temperature to make sure the vinyl does not over-stretch or warp any images. Laying a full wrap can be stressful, especially when dealing with rotators or other big wreckers, so keeping a cool head and having a solid team is a must. In the event a mistake is made while wrapping, it is peeled and reprint a panel is made, never leaving a corner cut.

Once the wrap is done a final inspection is completed and a heat gun is used to go over the whole wrap to remove any micro scratches and ensure good adhesion.

On delivery day, the whole crew is there to admire our work and experience the customers firsthand reactions. Whether it’s a flatbed, wheel-lift, or big rotator, seeing their company name for the first time on the side of a freshly wrapped truck is a thrilling moment, and often takes them back to when they first started. We realize that for most, the thought of wrapping a tow truck is a little overwhelming, and requires a lot of trust. Openly sharing ideas and concerns is essential for building trust and achieving success.

instagram.com/retrospec_printing

The most important part of the vinyl wrapping process is having a clear design concept, so the colors, lines, and wording can be reviewed and approved.

Large sections of vinyl must be carefully laid out to avoid over-stretching or warping any images.

With custom graphics honoring co-founder Kathie Clark, including her signature in a pink ribbon, C&C’s design fosters emotional connection and enduring loyalty with the community.

hand-painted checkered flag graphics are so eye-catching that people instantly recognize the company.

“All our trucks are different in color but follow the same visual pattern,” said tow operator Matt Cordell. “It gives the fleet a uniform identity, but each truck still feels oneof-a-kind. People spot our trucks right away.”

Owner Nick Van of Fox City’s Towing in northeastern Wisconsin offers another compelling example of colorful branding that translates to profit. With a fleet of 30 trucks

serving Green Bay, Appleton, and Oshkosh, Fox City’s graphics stand out thanks to the bold red and black color scheme, classic gold-leaf detailing, and visually appealing, easy-to-read logo that appears in customized colors across the fleet— giving each truck personal flair while keeping the brand recognizable.

GRAPHICS INSPIRE LOYALTY

For some companies, their designs often help create strong emotional bonds with customers. At C&C Towing in Dublin, Georgia, the

company’s American flag-themed Peterbilt serves as a rolling tribute to their co-founder, the late Kathie Clark. Her signature appears in the pink ribbon on the truck, alongside butterflies and religious symbols.

“That kind of story builds emotional loyalty,” owner Casey Clark said. And loyal customers often become repeat callers— especially in a business where trust and familiarity can make or break the next job.

Likewise, in New York, Lil Pete’s Automotive infused its newest Ram 5500 with personal flair, featuring the names of owner Pete Dinome’s children, nieces, and nephews in delicately scripted decals, alongside Looney Tunes cartoon characters like Tweety Bird and the Tasmanian Devil to represent their personalities. “Every one of my trucks has their names on them,” Pete said. “It’s who we are.”

In Virginia, Carl Thompson’s Spider-Man themed four-car carrier blends Marvel super-fandom with towing functionality. Designed to resemble webbing woven from tow chains, the truck’s custom wrap was Thompson’s brainchild.

“I spent about two weeks designing it, working with the wrap shop to make sure every detail fit perfectly,” he said. The truck now draws attention—and admiration— wherever it goes.

GRAPHICS DISPLAYING GEOGRAPHY

For Yellowstone Towing, the landscape defines the brand. Their “Old Faithful” rotator pays homage to the iconic geyser and the wilderness of Yellowstone National Park. Designed by company owner Zachary Pickering, the wrap features towering pines and a compass symbolizing exploration—a fitting message for a company that frequently rescues stranded motorists in the backcountry.

Similarly, 201 Service

Towing, located in Skowhegan, Maine, opted for a moose—the state’s most recognizable creature— as the centerpiece of its look. The moose, with a tow chain around its neck, is prominently featured on three matching flatbeds. “We didn’t just slap a name on the truck,” said Luke York, co-owner. “We wanted a real identity.” Their designs also include subtle references to the region’s forests and mountains, making each unit a rolling tribute to Maine’s rugged character.

PROFIT-DRIVEN DESIGN

Beyond recognition and emotional resonance, graphics can mean concrete financial benefits. A well-branded truck acts as a mobile advertisement, generating calls from people who spot the vehicle in traffic or at a recovery site. Several operators report that eyecatching wraps have led to unsolicited contracts, business partnerships, and even municipal opportunities.

“You’d be surprised how often we get work just because someone saw our truck at a job site,” said

Fox City’s Towing owner, Nick Van. “Branding gives us presence. Even if someone doesn’t need us today, they’ll remember us when they do.”

Branding also plays a role in employee retention and recruitment. Van’s drivers take pride in their assigned trucks—many of which feature personalized designs and themed wraps that their drivers have played a hand in selecting. That pride translates into greater care of equipment, stronger morale, and lower turnover.

“It’s more than a truck,” Van added. “It’s theirs. And that ownership helps the bottom line.”

ADDITIONAL CASHFLOW

Merchandise is another revenue stream for some tow companies. Chaz Towing of Watsonville, California, uses their understated logo to sell mugs, backpacks, and rain gear. 201 Service Towing leverages their brand identity to give away items like pens, notepads, decals, and other tangible touch points, serving both as branding tools and as micro-advertising.

In today’s competitive towing market, a truck’s visual design is more than aesthetic—it’s a strategic business tool. Bold graphics increase visibility, generate brand recognition, and ultimately lead to more phone calls, more jobs, and stronger customer retention. Companies that invest in branding are seeing those investments reflected in their profit margins.

“There’s definitely business value in standing out,” said tow operator Matt Cordell. “When people see our trucks, they remember them. That kind of branding sticks.”

And it’s that attachment—on the road and in people’s minds—that keeps customers coming back and profits rolling in.

TowmaN TechNiques

DRoof Lift Recoveries

For EVs in Extreme Situations

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.

espite the increasing number of electric vehicles (EVs) now on the road, many tow operators might not be knowledgeable or trained on how to recover them. While thermal runaway with resulting fire incidents are a concern, there’s little discussion about physically lifting EVs by their roof structures. This article will address both technical aspects and essential safety considerations, emphasizing the fundamental principles of safe practices.

Beginning with a case in point, in March of 2022, a Tesla Model 3, driven by an elderly motorist, launched through a fence and landed atop an unoccupied, ambulance at a commercial district in San Diego, CA. Since this was an inner-city scenario, the San Diego Police and Fire Department responded to the scene.

As typical with police tows, detailed information regarding the recovery wasn’t given by dispatch to the rotation company, which initially assigned a carrier to the scene.

Upon arrival, the experienced tow operator met with Incident Command (IC) to discuss his recovery plan. In this precarious situation, the Tesla’s nose rested on the ambulance, which was parked below on a lower level, while the Tesla’s

rear tires rested atop a solid, backfilled ledge of a block wall.

Subsequently, while the vehicle sat solid and balanced, the Tesla’s driver and three passengers were removed from its perch without problem. Fortunately, no part of the Tesla’s battery pack was damaged during this launch.

Because the IC was concerned with not breaking the Tesla’s still intact battery pack, he voiced concern about the integrity of the block wall. If removing the vehicle wasn’t done precisely, would the recovery cause the wall to tumble?

The experienced, tow owner/operator had a simple plan to move the Tesla. He would position his carrier rearward, in-line with the Tesla, with winch and bridle attached, while at the same time, a qualified ambulance operator would reverse the ambulance back to the wall. Doing so, the gap between the wall and the ambulance would be eliminated. Then, the Tesla could be winched onto the carrier’s deck, avoiding damage to the wall.

ANOTHER APPROACH

Instead, the IC ordered a heavy wrecker to lift the vehicle versus dragging it. Although a rotator would have been the ideal equipment for the job, tight access

This Tesla recovery could’ve gone a couple different ways, but the roof-lift approach involved some additional safety considerations.

eliminated this option. Instead, a straight-stick heavy wrecker worked the recovery without incident.

However, it appeared risky based on several safety violations. In this particular recovery, video captured continuous loops threaded through the Tesla’s doors to lift the vehicle’s entire weight by its roof. Footage showed a single lifting cable, with no safety clip on its tow hook, which are necessary to contain stacked straps. Worse yet, the large lifting straps were ragged and torn in several locations.

Based on this dubious scenario, consider these five questions:

1. Based on Tesla’s design and weight, does suspending this EV by its roof create further danger to the vehicle’s structural integrity?

2. Is there potential danger of the vehicle’s door pillars ripping through (especially for cars equipped with panoramic rooftops or frameless windows)?

3. Will roof-lifting vehicles inflict damage enough to result in total loss of an otherwise undamaged vehicle?

4. When lifting with inferior, compromised cable hooks and straps, what’s the possibility of unintended detachment?

5. Where heavy wreckers employ spreader bars for lifting, are operators aware of OSHA requirements for overhead electrocution scenarios?

As EV popularity increases, this rooftop method of rescue and recovery is problematic for total recovery safety. Ongoing safety concerns require proper interpretation as to which techniques are best deployed. This issue merits further consideration to enhance recovery safety and ensure that no vehicle detaches while being lifted.

Note that suspending (lifting) during a recovery isn’t covered in Tesla’s, Model 3, Emergency Response Guide, Page 26, nor is roof lift covered in Tesla’s, “Solar Roof - Emergency Response Guide.” Many “A” and “B pillar” locations (on Tesla models) are constructed of reinforced steel, with doors made of aluminum. All other structural body components consist of various strength aluminum.

On the Tesla Model 3, lifting by the vehicle’s roof rack isn’t recommended for recovery. A similar recommendation applies to Tesla’s, 5,200-pound, Model X, equipped with winged doors (similar to older DeLorean cars where doors are hinged across the roof).

SPREADER BAR SETUP

During an extreme recovery like this, most towers toss chain, round slings, or straps through vehicle doors as an easy and convenient process, typical to vehicles destroyed by collision or fire. For totaled vehicles, there’s generally little or no concern about inflicting additional damage, however, extra caution and additional techniques may be necessary where Tesla and other EV vehicles are concerned, due to their extra weight.

In some cases, towers might choose seatbelts as a viable attachment point, but these aren’t engineered for recovery. Although quick and easy, these kinds of doubtful techniques are just recipes for disaster by a lax operator.

Instead, it would be better to rig a dolly bar with looped end straps, to act as a spreader bar when working certain light-duty recoveries (as shown on the photo of the Toyota Prius).

Spreader bars have lift and recovery built into the process. When tow operators understand the theory and mathematics behind spreader bars, a more professional approach to safety and technique is realized. Deploying spreader bars, versus dangling a repairable vehicle, is a far better technique that eliminates the potential for creating operatorinflicted damages, or detachment due to cut points or strap failures.

Cars, SUVs, and trucks are easily recovered using single and double spreader bars. For spreader bar recoveries, consider simple steps when working dry recoveries (i.e., not immersed in water):

1. Safety First; Ensure that the EV casualty vehicle is in “Neutral” to eliminate electrocution hazards.

2. “Determine who, on scene, is qualified to handle EVs. Look to the IC for safety determination. 3. Always wear appropriate PPE.

Trained operators can rig looped end-straps with a standard dolly bar to act as a spreader bar with successful results.

Resource Sites

For specific information regarding Tesla EVs, contact the company’s “Emergency Responder Network”, or refer to website information. Towers are reminded to not conduct extreme EV-related recovery without first seeking training from competent training sources. Following are three, responder-specific websites regarding Tesla vehicles, and sites referring to three dozen alternative-fuel vehicles. Note that there is no single website specific to lift recovery by door surrounds and roof pillars.

Tesla Specific Vehicles: nfpa.org/Training-and-Events/ By-topic/Alternative-FuelVehicle-Safety-Training/ Emergency-ResponseGuides/Tesla

Tesla Specific Vehicles: tesla.com/en_SG/ firstresponders#vehicles-andcharging

Alternative Fuel Vehicle: nfpa.org/Training-and-Events/ By-topic/Alternative-FuelVehicle-Safety-Training/ Emergency-Response-Guides

For other safety information or for tow operators with product specific questions, contact firstrespondersafety@tesla.com

Tesla Guides tesla.com/sites/default/ files/downloads/Model_3_ Emergency_Response_Guide_ en.pdf

4. Remove unnecessary persons from recovery zones.

5. Position recovery vehicle for best access.

6. Deploy spreader bar from stowed locations. Position the boom’s tip centered above vehicle’s roof, and lower the cable hook/strap/loop to reachable level.

7. Attach low side, looped end, lift straps to vehicle wheels, or suitable location, then attach top side loops to spreader bar shackles. Widen bar ends to suitable width to prevent “fender caving.”

8. Ensure looped end straps are inside the recovery hook’s safety clips to retain strap ends.

9. Position rotator with space for vehicle lift; swing to side, high enough to back carrier under casualty.

10. Loads lifted in dry environments should remain level, not “dangled” at an angle.

11. Prevent any swing by adding a control line.

12. Lift sufficiently to avoid striking obstacles below casualty.

13. Load directly onto the bed of a waiting carrier.

14. Before setting and releasing, position 4x4 blocks to prevent rollaway.

WET WARNINGS

Regarding extreme weather conditions, saltwater corrosion in EV cars may lead to dangerous and unexpected fires. Saltwater immersion tends to further deteriorate lithium battery packs. This problem isn't limited to Tesla EVs, but also includes other alternative-fueled vehicles.

In a recent article in News Nation, Stephen Gollan, of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, stated, “Anytime you mix electrical components and saltwater together, it is a recipe for disaster.”

In limited-access recoveries, lifting and draining water from vehicle ends should suffice, but only suggested as part of a wet recovery

plan. As stated in Tesla’s Model S, Emergency Response Manual, Page 26, In Case of Submersion, “Vehicles that have been submerged in water should be handled with greater caution due to the potential risk of a high-voltage electrical battery fire.”

First responders and towers should be prepared to react to potential fire risks. Raise the vehicle’s front to allow water to drain from the vehicle and its battery

pack. After the vehicle is removed from immersion, continue normal disabling procedures outlined in the manual’s Chapter 3.

In light of all the extra precautions involved in recovering EVs, additional training and familiarity with their technology is strongly encouraged. As a start, check out the sidebar on Resource Sites, and seek out knowledgeable EV authorities.

classic wrecker

Flat Rate

Slamming a ’66 Chevy Tow Truck

By Steve Temple

Ever wonder what motivates someone to customize a tow truck? After all, a buildup can require lots of time and money, along with tackling a number of mechanical challenges. Unfazed by these hurdles, Justin Briggs of Carroll’s Wrecker in Palestine, Texas really wanted to see his

magazine after seeing our article series on Classic Wreckers. So, he pulled out all the stops, and got a little help from his friend Brandon Shinault and his crew at Classix LLC. Their persistence paid off, not only for being featured in this issue, but also for taking home a trophy in the Vintage Class at the USA Wrecker Pageant at TowXpo this past June. Besides this inspiration for buildup, what makes this ’66 Chevy worthy of feature coverage?

Although technically a rough ’n ready rat rod, the funky finish is partly fake. Those brown rust spots on the body paint were intentionally sprayed on. Other amusing touches added for the pageant display included a “skeleton crew” driver

super rusty but still had the wow factor,” Brandon related. “The truck originally had old Texas license plates used as a floor to hold it from falling apart.”

Despite the dilapidated condition, it was still a fairly functional tow truck running its original 327 engine, 4-speed manual transmission, and HO72 rear-end. The first order of business was to fabricate a support for the rear air-ride system with enough strength to hold the weight of the Ashton 10-60 boom and bed. This was not a kit, as everything had to be custom-built to fit the original HO72 rear-end. The front was bagged with cups, and drop spindles from a ’73-’91 C30 were used. (Hence the name “Flat Rate” for the slammed suspension.)

Brandon cut out and repaired all the rust on the body. Kobe Doolittle of MK Stunts hand-rolled oversized fenders, and welded them to the bed, among other metalwork on the body.

This was followed by painting the truck with a 1970s AMC green. The ersatz patina of rust spots mentioned previously was done with a mixture of dark brown, red primer, and flatblack Rust-Oleum.

Once the body colors were applied, Sam Moffit from Eye Candy Designs hand-painted the door and bed logos using enamel sign paint, a nearly lost art since vinyl wraps took over. In addition, the wrecker bed was converted from a chain-driven winch to an electric unit so the floor could be dropped three inches for air bags, and then fitted with SeaDek boat flooring. ◀

The 24-inch chrome rear wheels gave the truck a whole new look.

When this old Chevy rumbled into Carroll's shop, old Texas license plates were used as a floor to keep it from falling apart.

Jacksonville Auto Glass installed new windows after Juan Garcia of Classix LLC tinted them with a ceramic coating. He also fully wired the truck. But they weren’t quite done yet.

“Just when we thought we had a (final) vision,” Brandon recalls,

“Palestine Tire Center showed up with 24-inch chrome wheels with tires and that took the truck to another level.”

With the new look evolving, Justin decided the truck needed one more person’s touch and made a call to Troy Wacha of Platinum Stitching.

Troy hand-built several pieces of the truck and designed a tasteful interior to finish off this wrecker just right.

“The truck still has a few touches to be complete,” Brandon admits. “But as they say, some things are never done.”

It might have the look of a show truck, but it’s a functional tow truck, shown here towing a ’68 Dodge Polara.

No vinyl wrap here, all hand painted graphics. The original 327 engine is still running strong after refreshening it and adding a dress-up kit.

Troy Wacha of Platinum Stitching created the classy interior.

HeroNominate a

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A Towman’s Toughest Day

By Steve Temple

Normally, the Transmountain Road provides a scenic overlook of El Paso, Texas. But in the early afternoon of May 10 of 2025, the view was anything but scenic. A local tow truck company was hired to haul a tractor-trailer loaded with about 30,000 pounds of plated glass. While heading down the moun-

tain, the tow truck lost its brakes, and careened through two stoplights before slamming into a rock wall and igniting in a ball of fire on impact. Eleven other vehicles were hit along the way, causing multiple deaths and injuries. The driver of the tow truck survived the collision, but his passenger, the driver of the semi, did not.

These dual images of the accident scene show where the wrecker crossed the median strip and hit a rock wall and caught fire (left). Shown on the right are a few of the vehicles that were hit by the runaway tow truck.

Chacon’s recovery specialists worked to remove debris from under a damaged car before loading it on a carrier for removal. Crushed vehicles were spread across the freeway intersection.

RESPONDING PERSONNEL

Eddie Dominguez

Carlos Maynez

Ricardo Avena

Christopher Simental

Alex Halfacre

“It was chaos,” reported Josh Chacon of Chacon Towing, which was dispatched to the burning

crash scene. “Family members were crying and hysterical, looking for loved ones.” ◀

Fire completely consumed both the tow truck and semi.

The sight of cars hit by the wrecker and semi was horrific.

The fire from the crash burned for more than 30 minutes. It took 16 hours for Chacon to haul away all the vehicles and debris.

Victor Revilla

RESPONDING EQUIPMENT

Heavy duty:

2019 Peterbilt 567/ Jerr-Dan 35-ton wrecker

2022 International MV/ Century 3212

16-ton wrecker

Light duty:

2023 F650/Century 22-foot bed

2024 CV515 International/ Century 22-foot bed

2017 HINO 915/ Century 21-foot aluminum bed

2019 CV515 International/ Chevron 408.

When Chacon’s crew of eight recovery specialists arrived on scene, they were shocked by the sight of all the smashed cars, some strewn with kids’ clothing and toys. Chacon’s crew immediately focused on the passenger vehicles to free trapped children.

Shards of shattered plate glass required careful removal.

Chacon’s Jerr-Dan 35-ton wrecker hauled off the burnt wrecker and semi.

A total of 11 other vehicles were hit by the runaway wrecker, causing multiple deaths and injuries.

Somberly, the tow operators meticulously cleared the accident scene and shards of broken glass while the fire department worked to extinguish the blazing tow truck and semi. Once the flames were out, Chacon’s Jerr-Dan wrecker hooked up the scorched wrecker and semi to haul them away. All told, the recovery and extensive cleanup was an 18-hour job. In the aftermath, the visibly shaken towmen were encouraged to “talk out” their traumatic experiences, in order to return to duty.

Chacon’s crew was stunned by the sight of the smashed cars, some strewn with kids’ clothing and toys.

Several car carriers were needed to for hauling away all the debris and casualty vehicles.

ANNOYING REGS

Brian E. Walters is a transportation attorney in Austin, Texas. After working for a large legal firm, he founded The Walters Firm in 2009. Mr. Walters’ practice now focuses exclusively on heavy-duty towing, crash recovery, and hazmat payment disputes involving brokers, motor carriers, property damage, physical damage, and cargo insurance carriers. Mr. Walters is a published author on Texas towing, recovery, and storage law and regulation. He has worked with Southwest Tow Operators on a probono basis each legislative session for the past eight years, traveling to the capitol and meeting with members of the house and senate to protect towing companies and VSFs fight for laws that help the industry.

Harnessing AI A Transformation in Tow Operations

By Brian Edward Walters, J.D.

When AI systems took a stab at writing this article, it began as follows: “Imagine you’re a towing company owner who’s tired of unpaid invoices, insurance disputes, and endless paperwork compliance headaches.”

Most towers don’t need to “imagine” such a scenario. The reality is that most towers have lost countless hours and significant revenue due to minor mistakes that snowball into major losses.

Imagine this scenario instead: having a tireless, 24/7, always-accurate assistant that instantly handles these tasks. This is exactly the promise of AI-powered GPT technology. It’s not about using AI to generate a blog post or an email, but about using AI technology to solve real problems that affect the industry every single day.

Towing and storage companies face unique regulatory complexities on federal, state, and local levels, and are required to follow strict rules for notices, vehicle storage, and documenting work. On top of that, there’s the deep-dive of dealing with the varying standards of insurers and TPAs (Third Party Administrators) when submitting insurance claims for policeordered tows. Missing just one small compliance detail can lead to unpaid bills, costly administrative fines, or lengthy legal disputes. Each of these prevents a tow company from doing what it should be doing—running its business.

Every towing company has experienced it—sending an invoice to an insurer only to receive pushback or denial based on technicalities, coverage issues, and the classic “we’re liability only” excuse. The industry loses millions of dollars every year because of missed deadlines, incorrect paperwork, or unclear invoicing.

BENEFITS OF GPT TECHNOLOGY

GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) is essentially an advanced digital assistant capable of understanding and processing written language. Imagine being able to hire the most knowledgeable

employee ever, one that’s always available, familiar with every towing regulation, capable of instantly spotting errors, and even suggesting improvements.

In simple terms, a GPT can read a company’s documents and files, review photos, and even listen in on phone calls and provide clear, instant feedback. It’s like having a fulltime compliance officer without the payroll costs.

PRACTICAL AI SOLUTIONS

As one example of many, consider notice letters required by the Texas Occupations Code. Manually generating or verifying these notices is tedious and all-too prone to human error. While software exists to help generate these letters, this involves a great deal of “trusting the system,” particularly when it comes time to foreclose on abandoned vehicles. After all, if a mistake is made, the liability falls on the storage facility, not its software provider.

With GPT technology, a tow company’s notice letters can be instantly reviewed and doublechecked, highlighting exactly what complies, or what might trigger issues down the line.

In the towing business, the old saying that ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ couldn’t be more apt. Ensuring complete certainty—not just confidence—that every regulatory requirement has been precisely met protects a tow business from fines, and enables a vigorous defense in the event of legal actions.

RESOLVING INSURANCE DISPUTES

In another common scenario, insurance disputes can drag on for months or even years, tying up valuable resources and wasting employee time. GPT technology can help streamline this process by swiftly reviewing each insurer’s coverage, analyzing policy

language, and crafting persuasive, professional responses tailored to secure prompt payment. By shortening dispute resolution times from months down to days, AI technology helps a tow company receive payments faster, and reduces the extensive administrative effort typically wasted in prolonged negotiations and billing justification.

AUTOMATED CUSTOMER RELATIONS

GPT-based voice assistants are even transforming customer

interactions, with a voice agent that can handle customer calls and complaints professionally. Given the right training, these agents can even negotiate disputes efficiently, improving customer satisfaction and significantly reducing stress and human conflict.

Even better, they can ensure that the facts surrounding any complaints are well-documented and preserved. This creates an audit trail that can be used to defend a towman’s work. ◀

TRANSPARENT RECOVERY NARRATIVES

A major hurdle in timely insurance payments is the clarity and detail provided in recovery narratives. This is where AI technology excels, instantly generating comprehensive, clear, and detailed descriptions of recovery operations.

These narratives ensure that insurers fully understand the work performed, leading to fewer disputed charges. Transparency in billing accelerates approvals and payments, at the same time reducing billing-related stress.

This is already on its way to the towing industry, because companies like Towbook are actively developing technologies that integrate AI-driven narrative creation, further simplifying the billing and documentation process for towing operators.

MORE PROFITABILITY

Using an AI model not only improves compliance, but also boosts profitability. With fewer rejected or delayed invoices, faster claim resolutions, and proactive regulatory compliance, a tow company ultimately saves money. Alerts about regulatory issues come up immediately, ensuring a business always operates within current rules, avoiding costly mistakes.

In sum, forward-thinking business owners who leverage AI technology differentiate themselves with better customer interactions, fewer regulatory headaches, and significantly improved profitability. Putting it simply, this tech can make a towman’s life easier.

GETTING STARTED WITH AI

It doesn’t take a tech wizard to use AI or GPT models. Modern AI solutions that can be used by towing companies are straightforward and ready-to-go,

and here’s how to get started right now in these specific areas:

• Billing disputes, compliance issues, or paperwork headaches.

• Designed specifically for the towing industry.

• Precise compliance accuracy, faster payments, and customer interactions in just weeks.

Think of it like adding an app to a phone or new software on a computer. It’s that easy.

FUTURE-PROOFING A TOWING BUSINESS

Every day that a tow company delays learning about and adopting AI, competitors gain ground using these solutions. Companies using AI tools today will dominate tomorrow’s market.

AI technology isn’t just future-thinking—it’s practical, affordable, and accessible, enabling a towing business to work smarter, not harder.

TowmaN safeTy

Billing with Confidence

When Using the Firebox EV Containment Unit

By David Rottinghaus

TDavid Rottinghaus is the Executive Vice President of Zip’s AW Direct, the largest retailer of towing and recovery equipment, parts, and accessories in North America. In addition to his leadership at Zip’s, David is a committed advocate for the Towing & Recovery industry. He has worked alongside operators, manufacturers, and industry partners to support safer practices, better equipment solutions, and increased awareness of the challenges towing professionals face every day.

owing professionals operate in one of the most dynamic and demanding industries in transportation. And now, with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), they’re being asked to manage new levels of risk; specifically, the fire hazards and containment needs of compromised EVs.

The reality is simple: a damaged EV poses a very real threat to a tow company’s impound yard, employees, and business operations. These vehicles can develop a thermal runaway condition several hours, days, or even months after an incident. Traditional storage methods are no longer enough.

That's why the Firebox is essential equipment. Additionally, billing for their use is not only justified, but essential to recouping what is, ultimately, a smart and safety-driven investment for any tow business.

The unit in particular is the only product on the market designed specifically to isolate, contain, and safely store compromised EVs. This purposebuilt enclosure is engineered to mitigate

Combating an EV fire with conventional firefighting methods can be futile due to the extreme heat generated. Also, allowing the fire to self-extinguish poses the serious risk of toxic gases being released. A Firebox eliminates these problems by submerging the battery pack with about 3,000 gallons of water in only six minutes.

the growing risk of EV-related fires. For towers, it's not only a safety tool, but also a liability shield and a revenue opportunity.

BILLING BENEFITS

Some towers may feel uncertain about how to invoice for the service this product provides, especially if they're concerned about insurance pushback, or believe their city or state’s capped storage rates prevent additional billing. This hesitation is understandable, but misplaced.

It's important to understand that EV containment isn't just storage. It's a specialty safety and mitigation service, and it's absolutely billable.

If a tow company experiences pushback or resistance on an invoice, whether from an adjuster, customer, or agency, the conversation should be redirected to compliance. EV containment is not inflating costs, but rather following industryrecognized safety standards. That's where the Energy Security Agency (ESA) becomes

a key ally, an advocate on behalf of the tow company.

ESA is the national authority on EV fire risk and compromised EV handling. They offer FREE, on-scene safety support to towing, recovery, and fire & rescue first responders, providing protocols for how these vehicles should be properly handled, transported, and stored. When an EV-related bill is challenged, the

answer should be simple and direct: "We are following ESArecommended safety and compliance procedures for handling a compromised EV."

At this point, the tow company should bill accordingly. Following are the three primary line items that should be reflected on an invoice when using this product:

1. Standard Vehicle Storage: The regular daily storage rate still applies, just as with any vehicle in a tow company’s care.

2. Isolation and Containment:

A separate line item should indicate the use of the Firebox as a specialty safety device. This isn't general storage—it’s a riskcontrol solution that ensures safe containment.

3. Additional Mitigation Measures: If additional precautions are used, such as thermal imaging, smoke detection, or live video monitoring, these measures are directly tied to the Firebox's purpose, and should be billed individually or as a bundled charge.

MORE PLUSES

Beyond additional revenue generation, the Firebox delivers two additional benefits that are critical for any towing operation. Firstly, it preserves vehicle storage capacity. Without this product, a compromised EV requires a 50foot safety perimeter, rendering numerous nearby spaces unusable. With the Firebox, a tow company ◀

After an EV is submerged in the Firebox in order to extinguish a fire, the contaminated water can be drained off for disposal by a hazmat company.

can preserve those spaces, and the revenue that comes along with them. Second, and perhaps most important, it builds a tow company's reputation. Using the Firebox demonstrates to the community, public safety partners, and insurance providers that a tow company prioritizes safety, takes the EV fire threat seriously, and is implementing

best practices in the tow industry.

As compromised EVs become more common, the question isn't will a tow company need a safe containment solution, but when. It’s unwise to take a reactive approach and wait for a catastrophic event to force the decision. Making a fire-mitigation investment now is a proactive move that protects people, property, and a company’s bottom line.

This product provides a truly compliant, scalable, and effective solution to EV fire hazards. It's time the industry recognizes its value, not only in terms of safety, but also in billing.

For those who haven't already familiarized themselves with ESA's services, standards, and protocols, it is strongly encouraged that tow companies reach out to them directly, and also review their website at energysecurityagency.com

As a Towing Professional, be recognized by your Police or Fire Chief for serving your community in an exceptional way

Have your Police or Fire Chief nominate you for

THE ORDER OF TOWMAN

Should you feel you qualify, take this nomination form to your chief.

• For the past 15 years over 2,000 police and fire chiefs across the U.S. have nominated towing professionals for The Order of Towman, presented by American Towman Magazine in recognition of their supreme dedication to their communities and to the professionalism in their trade.

• No one knows better than chiefs how towers rise to the occasion to face challenges at incident scenes or support their departments.

• While American Towman Magazine mails nomination forms to chiefs nationwide, it may take more than one notice.

Deadline: September 30, 2025 for nominations. The ceremony presentation of the Cross of The Order will take place at the American Towman Exposition in Baltimore. Nominee (Owner or

A Fond Farewell

After 35 years of dedicated service and a decorated career at AAA, Dawn Ray has decided to retire at the end of this year. During her tenure, Dawn had a diverse experience with her work on the Traffic Safety, Financial Services, and Automotive Teams. For those of us that had the pleasure to work closely with Dawn, we all benefitted from her wealth of AAA knowledge, thorough preparation, thoughtful approach to collaboration, a great sense of humor, and her overall kind spirit. Dawn exemplifies AAA’s basic beliefs, and always did such a phenomenal job of serving her colleagues, the clubs, suppliers, and her community. Her charitable work is commendable as well, and it will be something she will continue in retirement. Dawn is beloved by all and will be truly missed.

Towing Museum Auction Truck

The International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum proudly announces the unveiling of the 2025 Museum Auction Truck, generously donated by industry leaders Hino Trucks USA and Miller Industries.

This custom-designed truck officially rolled off the line at Miller’s car carrier production facility in Hermitage, PA, and will be auctioned at the museum’s Annual Fundraising Gala on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Westin in Chattanooga, TN.The auction truck features a Hino L6 Series chassis, outfitted with a Century 12 Series LCG (Low Center of Gravity) carrier body, a combination that’s designed to meet the rigorous demands of today’s towing professionals.

“All of us at the International Towing Museum are honored to partner again

with Hino Trucks and Miller Industries,” said Jeffrey Godwin, first vice president of the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum. “These two companies are not only innovators in our industry, but also deeply committed to preserving its history and advancing its future.”

Proceeds from the auction will directly support the museum’s mission to preserve the rich history of the towing and recovery profession. Funds raised will aid ongoing efforts to expand exhibits, enhance educational programming, and improve museum facilities, thus ensuring future generations understand and appreciate the critical role towing professionals play in public safety and transportation.

Located in Chattanooga, the International Towing Museum is the only institution of its kind dedicated to honoring the heritage and heroes of the towing and recovery industry. From vintage wreckers to Hall of Fame inductees, the museum brings together stories, innovation, and legacy under one roof.

“At Hino Trucks, we’re proud to once again stand alongside Miller Industries in supporting the International Towing Museum and its mission to honor the legacy of this essential industry,” said John Donato, Sr., vice president of sales and marketing for Hino Trucks. “We’re honored to contribute a vehicle that not only meets the demands of today’s operators, but also helps preserve the rich history of the towing and recovery profession.”

Kipp Felice, vice president of marketing and business solutions at Miller Industries, commented: “Partnering with Hino Trucks to support the International Towing Museum is something we’re truly proud of. The museum plays a vital role in celebrating and preserving the deep-rooted history of the towing and recovery profession. We’re honored to contribute to this important mission, and excited to work alongside a respected industry partner like Hino Trucks in providing this special auction item. It’s a great way to help advance the museum’s vision for the future.”

The auction is scheduled for Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Westin Chattanooga, with festivities kicking off at 6:30 p.m. Attendees can look forward to an evening of celebration, networking, and spirited bidding, all in support of a great cause. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.

For more information on the event, auction registration, and museum updates, please visit: towingmuseum. com/museum-weekend-page

Agero, Polestar Partner on EV Roadside Assistance

Agero, a leader in digital driver assistance services, has announced its exclusive partnership with Polestar Automotive USA Inc. to deliver roadside assistance for Polestar electric vehicle (EV) owners across the U.S.

With over 50 years of experience, Agero brings its advanced technology platform, vast service network, and deep EV expertise to support Polestar’s premium customer experience. The collaboration comes amid growing EV adoption, expected to increase by 12.61% annually through 2029.

“Agero is a partner in the truest sense,” said Laura Chamoun, Head of Customer Experience at Polestar North America. “Their white-glove service and EV knowledge have proven invaluable.”

Agero supports Polestar Connect, enabling SOS emergency services, crash detection, and automatic vehicle response. Its digital tools give drivers access to roadside help through an in-car CONNECT button, the Polestar app, or phone. Features include real-time truck tracking, crash response, and proactive follow-up.

“Our work with Polestar is just beginning,” said Jon Greene, Agero’s VP of Client Success. “We are committed to innovating the EV experience.”

Agero also equips its provider network with EV-specific training materials, drawing on data from over 250,000 EV roadside incidents handled last year. Together, the companies aim to redefine roadside assistance for the modern electric vehicle driver.

Source: Voxus PR

Family Matters A Trophy-Winning

Tow Truck Delivers Meaningful Messages

By Steve Temple

Can pearls be found in Texas?

Actually they can, as mussel shells in the waterways of West Texas produce the coveted Concho pearls. We came across a Texas pearl of another kind at the USA Wrecker Pageant at TowXpo. This 2023 Ford F-450 Lariat with a 1991 Chevron 408A Combo Bed won

Best of Show. The truck’s pearl-white base coat is accented by some telling maroon-colored graphics.

“The reason for the Texas logo is because everything is bigger in Texas,” boasts Tylor Rogers of Long’s Towing. “So why not a logo that not only represents Texas, but also represents our company in a big way— basically saying that we are Texas through and through.”

Fair enough, but there’s more to the story, with a deeper personal meaning to the visuals.

“The 4:13 logo represents the ranch brand that my boss came up with,” Tylor explains. “It also represents his mother Veronica Long’s favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13.” This scriptural “pearl of high value” refers to having the ability to overcome challenges with the help of faith, something every towman certainly needs in facing many challenges over the years.

Pictured on the truck’s pylon are the beloved ancestors of Long’s Towing.

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

Engine: 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel

Transmission: TorqShift 10-Speed

Transmission

Chassis: 2023 Ford F-450

Lariat Super Duty

Wrecker Body: 1991 Chevron

408A Combo Bed

Custom Features: pearl-white paint with maroon graphics and accents, running lights all around the truck, 22.5-inch rims to handle a heavier payload, maroon powdercoated parts

Looking back to the roots of the company, Veronica and William Long, Sr, pictured on the pylon of the truck, had a tow company in the 1980s and ’90s called Reliable Wrecker Service.

“That’s when he taught his kids how towing vehicles worked,”

Tylor related. “So you can see the apple didn’t fall far from the tree, because like father like son, William Long, Jr. followed the tradition of owning his own tow company, Longs Towing LLC. out of Stafford, Texas since 2009.”

Long’s Towing has grown from

one truck to about 25 trucks in the fleet. As a heartfelt tribute to William, Jr. for his steadfast support of their team, Tylor included a personal message on the truck’s recovery boom—“Family Tradition” to show just how much he is appreciated as an owner.

“The reason for that is, I’ve been born and raised around towing all my life,” adds Tylor. “If I could say I was born in a wrecker I would, but that’s not the case.” His own father Coy Rogers and two uncles, Troy Rogers and Robert Rogers III, and Troy’s mother Patience Bock and Aunt Andrea Rogers, have been involved in towing since 1998.

“They taught me everything I know ‘till this day,” Tylor says. “I take the things they taught me and succeed at my job. I’m a thirdgeneration tow truck driver myself, so I thought it would seem more fitting to put ‘Family Tradition’ on the back of the truck because this whole truck stands for family.”

Lastly, in a bit of whimsy, the “Big Fiddy” nickname on the front fender is Houston slang for a Ford F-450 rolling on massive 22.5-inch rims, and fitted with a hefty monster Chevron rig. “So as you can tell, everything is big on this truck,” Tylor exclaimed. But more important, it’s really big on family matters.

Long Towing’s beautifully finished tow truck caught the eye of attendees at TowXpo.

Customized levers and maroon powder coating on the diamond plate trim add a special touch.

This graphic is more than a motto, they’re words to live by.

All the bolts on the bed have custom chromed caps.

Steve Calitri Editor-in-Chief scalitri@towman.com

Power of the Individual

By Steve Calitri

At the heart of all human interactions is the power of the individual. In our industry, this power is on display at a recovery scene with the tow operator assessing and taking control of the situation, or arriving roadside to rescue a stranded motorist, or making the move to get out and call on a potential commercial account.

Among industry suppliers, it’s the individual who can strengthen a company—or not. The power of the individual is never more so on display than at a trade show, and particularly at an American Towman Exposition, where all kinds of characters color the events and the exhibit floor.

In business, companies, products, and services are all branded. Persons working in exhibit booths wear company logos on their shirts. But the individual character comes through the fabric of conformity that marks company identity and initiatives. Only in the individual character can one detect humor, heart, and wisdom. A tow boss is reminded of the power and value of the individual when a call or letter comes in from a motorist praising his tow truck operator’s personality and humanity.

The power of the individual is what drives one towing company or industry supplier to outcompete and outperform others. Looking inside our industry, several movers and shakers come to mind: Bill Johnson as an example of savvy diversification, Bruce Campbell taking

the lead on traffic control and roadside safety, Jeremy Procon setting up a stateof-the-art dispatch station, Geoff Russell creating Guardian Fleet Service. I could go on and on with tow bosses past and present, including every Towman of the Year whose individual efforts have had an impact on not only their companies, but the greater towing industry. I’ll go far back to mention one more: Ernest Holmes, credited with jury-rigging the first wrecker and thus becoming one of the first tow truck operators.

We can also look to famous entrepreneurs for more examples. Steve Jobs was the driving force for the innovation that brought us the iPhone. Elon Musk has outperformed Detroit in electric cars, and NASA in rockets. Jeff Bezos launched retail commerce into the stratosphere where Amazon currently reigns.

Our industry, as it is now, stands on the shoulders of the men who innovated the wheel-lift, the rotator, and digital dispatch. The industry of operators has been professionalized by the drive of men like the late Donnie Cruse, and trainers Bill Jackson and Ross Kinman before him, all before the founding of WreckMaster. Today’s men and women of our industry continue to innovate and strive to beat the challenges facing tow bosses and their tow operators. They remain a “rare breed” of individualistic and independent service professionals whose work is critical to the world of transportation and society.

The beat goes on. As I write, individual towmen are working to ensure that recovery bills can’t be dodged, associations are strengthened by AI, the latest wrecker innovations will be ready to show, and this power of individualism is harnessed to electrify the coming American Towman Exposition XXXVI.

News flash

“Move Over” Rally Honors Fallen Towman, Raises Awareness

The Michigan Towing Association hosted a “Move Over” rally honoring the life of 25-year-old Keagan Spencer while calling attention to the daily dangers tow truck drivers face.

Spencer, of Hastings, was killed in December 2023 while assisting a disabled vehicle on the roadside. He was engaged to be married and had dreams of raising a family. His father, Todd Spencer, also a tow truck driver, said working on the side of the road is “a scary situation.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and OSHA, the motor vehicle towing industry records approximately 26 fatal injuries per year nationwide. Despite Michigan’s Move Over law requiring drivers to slow down and change lanes when they see emergency flashing lights, many still speed by and endanger lives.

“You know when we’re under these trucks pulling the driveshafts on the big ones, or we’re hooking up our chains or our straps to the cars, we can’t see for a while, we lose visibility of oncoming traffic,” said tower Todd Roush. “So, your mind is wondering as you’re trying to do your job, as cars are literally feet or inches away from your vehicle.”

The rally aimed to raise awareness, honor Keagan, and urge drivers to slow down and move over.

Source: newsbreak.com

Tow Attempt in Minnesota Turns Dangerous

On July 26, a tow truck driver was forced to release a vehicle after being confronted by an armed vehicle owner during a repossession attempt in Farmington, a suburb about 35 miles south of Minneapolis.

According to police, the vehicle’s owner, who is known to law enforcement and has multiple outstanding warrants, allegedly brandished a firearm. Although the weapon was not pointed at the driver, the tow operator feared for his safety and disengaged. The suspect then fled the scene in the vehicle, later abandoning it nearby.

Multiple agencies responded, including K9 teams and air support from the Minnesota State Patrol. A shelter-in-place order was issued for the surrounding area as officers searched for the suspect. Despite an extensive search, the suspect was not found and is still at large.

Source: limitless-news.com

Chicago Drivers Struggle with Damage Claims

When Craig Myers parked in a snow tow zone in February 2025, he accepted the mistake and the towing fee. What he didn’t expect was the severe damage to his Hyundai Santa Fe.

“When I put it in park, the car kept going,” he said. Mechanics told him the parking pin was broken and his transmission needed replacing—likely due to improper towing.

Surveillance video confirmed his SUV, an all-wheel drive vehicle, was towed with rear wheels on the

ground—not on a flatbed as experts recommend. Myers filed a claim with United Road Towing (URT), the city’s towing contractor. It was denied.

CBS News Chicago found only 23% of towing damage claims were approved between 2016 and 2024. URT trucks were often linked to unresolved or denied claims.

Myers ultimately received $3,500 from URT after media inquiries. Another driver, Esther Liu, is still waiting over a year after her legal tow caused irreparable damage.

Source: cbsnews.com

States Crack Down on Predatory Towing Practices

A growing number of states are taking action to curb predatory towing. North Carolina recently joined Arkansas, Connecticut, and Indiana in passing reforms aimed at protecting drivers from abusive practices.

North Carolina’s new law, signed by Gov. Josh Stein, prohibits immobilizing commercial vehicles with devices like boots for parking enforcement. Violators face up to 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. The law also requires tow companies to promptly return commercial cargo or provide a comparable trailer when necessary. These changes take effect December 1.

In Indiana, a new law caps emergency and private property towing rates and mandates detailed, itemized invoices. Towing providers must now prove all charges were legitimate and necessary. Law enforcement must rotate towers and review rates.

Todd Roush of Anytime Towing spoke at a rally honoring fallen tow truck driver Keagan Spencer.

Surveillance footage captures Craig Myers’ allwheel drive Hyundai Santa Fe being towed with its rear wheels on the ground.

States are curbing on predatory towing practices.

Violations carry fines of up to $5,000.

Illinois may soon follow. A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk would allow the state to impound tow trucks and suspend plates if fines go unpaid. It also blocks bad actors from acquiring new licenses and bars liens on essential personal property.

Source: landline.media

Court Sides with Lender Following Tow-Triggered Repossession

A recent federal court ruling favors lenders and underscores the importance of accurate credit reporting in repossession cases.

When Sharlene Jacobs left her car parked illegally during an extended trip, it was towed. Though her loan was current, the tow triggered a lien sale, prompting her lender, Capital One Auto Finance, to repossess. Jacobs later sued—not over the repo, but because the repossession appeared on her credit report.

In Jacobs v. Capital One Bank, ◀

N.A., the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida granted summary judgment to Capital One, ruling its reporting was accurate and its investigation into Jacobs’ dispute was reasonable under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

Jacobs claimed financial hardship from the negative credit mark, but the court found no FCRA violation. Equifax, also named in the suit, was cleared as well.

The decision reinforces the legal protections for lien holders who document repos properly, conduct fair investigations, and report accurately. For tow operators and recovery agents, it highlights the role their actions can play in triggering repos— and the importance of strong, coordinated documentation.

Predatory Towing Ring Exposed in L.A.

Authorities have busted a pred-

atory towing operation in Van Nuys, California, recovering 145 vehicles after a joint investigation by the LAPD, California Highway Patrol, and other agencies.

Police say the scam involved tow truck drivers targeting victims of minor accidents or vehicle breakdowns. In some cases, a supposed “witness” would offer to help and later text the victim, claiming their insurance had authorized a tow. Victims, misled into signing documents, later faced inflated invoices with unautho-

rized charges—sometimes as high as $15,000.

“These victims were forced to pay extensive fees to get their vehicle out of the shop,” said LAPD Deputy Chief Marla Ciuffitelli.

The towing companies involved were allegedly operating under names like Legend Auto and Legend Enterprise. Complaints and online reviews had previously flagged their practices.

Source: abc7.com

LAPD calls out bandit towing at Van Nuys briefing.

News flash

“Move Over” Rally Honors Fallen Towman, Raises Awareness

The Michigan Towing Association hosted a “Move Over” rally honoring the life of 25-year-old Keagan Spencer while calling attention to the daily dangers tow truck drivers face.

Spencer, of Hastings, was killed in December 2023 while assisting a disabled vehicle on the roadside. He was engaged to be married and had dreams of raising a family. His father, Todd Spencer, also a tow truck driver, said working on the side of the road is “a scary situation.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and OSHA, the motor vehicle towing industry records approximately 26 fatal injuries per year nationwide. Despite Michigan’s Move Over law requiring drivers to slow down and change lanes when they see emergency flashing lights, many still speed by and endanger lives.

“You know when we’re under these trucks pulling the driveshafts on the big ones, or we’re hooking up our chains or our straps to the cars, we can’t see for a while, we lose visibility of oncoming traffic,” said tower Todd Roush. “So, your mind is wondering as you’re trying to do your job, as cars are literally feet or inches away from your vehicle.”

The rally aimed to raise awareness, honor Keagan, and urge drivers to slow down and move over.

Source: newsbreak.com

Tow Attempt in Minnesota Turns Dangerous

On July 26, a tow truck driver was forced to release a vehicle after being confronted by an armed vehicle owner during a repossession attempt in Farmington, a suburb about 35 miles south of Minneapolis.

According to police, the vehicle’s owner, who is known to law enforcement and has multiple outstanding warrants, allegedly brandished a firearm. Although the weapon was not pointed at the driver, the tow operator feared for his safety and disengaged. The suspect then fled the scene in the vehicle, later abandoning it nearby.

Multiple agencies responded, including K9 teams and air support from the Minnesota State Patrol. A shelter-in-place order was issued for the surrounding area as officers searched for the suspect. Despite an extensive search, the suspect was not found and is still at large.

Source: limitless-news.com

Chicago Drivers Struggle with Damage Claims

When Craig Myers parked in a snow tow zone in February 2025, he accepted the mistake and the towing fee. What he didn’t expect was the severe damage to his Hyundai Santa Fe.

“When I put it in park, the car kept

going,” he said. Mechanics told him the parking pin was broken and his transmission needed replacing— likely due to improper towing.

Surveillance video confirmed his SUV, an all-wheel drive vehicle, was towed with rear wheels on the ground—not on a flatbed as experts recommend. Myers filed a claim with United Road Towing (URT), the city’s towing contractor. It was denied.

CBS News Chicago found only 23% of towing damage claims were approved between 2016 and 2024. URT trucks were often linked to unresolved or denied claims.

Myers ultimately received $3,500 from URT after media inquiries. Another driver, Esther Liu, is still waiting over a year after her legal tow caused irreparable damage.

Source: cbsnews.com

States Crack Down on Predatory Towing Practices

A growing number of states are taking action to curb predatory towing. North Carolina recently joined Arkansas, Connecticut, and Indiana

States are curbing on predatory towing practices.

Todd Roush of Anytime Towing spoke at a rally honoring fallen tow truck driver Keagan Spencer.

Surveillance footage captures Craig Myers’ allwheel drive Hyundai Santa Fe being towed with its rear wheels on the ground.

in passing reforms aimed at protecting drivers from abusive practices.

North Carolina’s new law, signed by Gov. Josh Stein, prohibits immobilizing commercial vehicles with devices like boots for parking enforcement. Violators face up to 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. The law also requires tow companies to promptly return commercial cargo or provide a comparable trailer when necessary. These changes take effect December 1.

In Indiana, a new law caps emergency and private property towing rates and mandates detailed, itemized invoices. Towing providers must now prove all charges were legitimate and necessary. Law enforcement must rotate towers and review rates. Violations carry fines of up to $5,000.

Illinois may soon follow. A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk would allow the state to impound tow trucks and suspend plates if fines go unpaid. It also blocks bad actors from acquiring new licenses and bars liens on essential personal property.

Source: landline.media

Court Sides with Lender Following Tow-Triggered Repossession

A recent federal court ruling favors lenders and underscores the importance of accurate credit reporting in repossession cases.

When Sharlene Jacobs left her car parked illegally during an extended trip, it was towed. Though her loan was current, the tow triggered a lien sale, prompting her lender, Capital One Auto Finance, to repossess. Jacobs later sued—not over the repo, but because the repossession appeared on her credit report.

In Jacobs v. Capital One Bank, N.A., the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida granted summary judgment to Capital One, ruling its reporting was accurate and its investigation into Jacobs’ dispute was reasonable under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

Jacobs claimed financial hardship

from the negative credit mark, but the court found no FCRA violation. Equifax, also named in the suit, was cleared as well.

The decision reinforces the legal protections for lien holders who document repos properly, conduct fair investigations, and report accurately. For tow operators and recovery agents, it highlights the role their actions can play in triggering repos— and the importance of strong, coordinated documentation.

Predatory Towing Ring Exposed in L.A.

Authorities have busted a predatory towing operation in Van Nuys, California, recovering 145 vehicles after a joint investigation by the LAPD, California Highway Patrol, and other agencies.

Police say the scam involved tow truck drivers targeting victims of minor accidents or vehicle breakdowns. In some cases, a supposed “witness” would offer to help and later

text the victim, claiming their insurance had authorized a tow. Victims, misled into signing documents, later faced inflated invoices with unauthorized charges—sometimes as high as $15,000.

“These victims were forced to pay extensive fees to get their vehicle out of the shop,” said LAPD Deputy Chief Marla Ciuffitelli.

The towing companies involved were allegedly operating under names like Legend Auto and Legend Enterprise. Complaints and online reviews had previously flagged their practices.

Source: abc7.com

Operators of Lubbock Tow Company Indicted

The owner and the dispatcher of Cantu Towing in Lubbock, Texas face felony theft charges after a months-long police investigation revealed alleged illegal towing and fraudulent vehicle sales.

Jerry Cantu, 45, and his son

LAPD calls out bandit towing at Van Nuys briefing.

A Cantu Towing truck sits idle after police seized company property during a vehicle theft investigation.

Tommy Cantu, 23, were indicted Tuesday by a Lubbock County grand jury on charges of theft between $2,500 and $30,000. The charges stem from multiple reports between April and June accusing the company of towing vehicles without proper authorization, forging documentation, and selling the cars to a local salvage yard.

In one case, a woman’s Nissan Versa was towed without notice and sold the same day using falsified records. Police discovered it was never listed in the required abandoned vehicle database.

Several similar incidents followed, including the alleged unauthorized towing of a Monte Carlo, a Toyota Sequoia with a valid handicap placard, and a Buick Lucerne.

On July 3, police executed a search warrant at the business, seizing 11 tow trucks and several allegedly stolen items. Both men were arrested and later released on $20,000 bonds.

Source: lubbockonline.com

by

Don Lomax

“Move Over” Rally Honors Fallen Towman, Raises Awareness

The Michigan Towing Association hosted a “Move Over” rally honoring the life of 25-year-old Keagan Spencer while calling attention to the daily dangers tow truck drivers face.

Spencer, of Hastings, was killed in December 2023 while assist-

Todd Roush of Anytime Towing spoke at a rally honoring fallen tow truck driver Keagan Spencer.

ing a disabled vehicle on the roadside. He was engaged to be married and had dreams of raising a family. His father, Todd Spencer, also a tow truck driver, said working on the side of the road is “a scary situation.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and OSHA, the motor vehicle towing industry records approximately 26 fatal injuries per year nationwide. Despite Michigan’s Move Over law requiring drivers to slow down and change lanes when they see emergency flashing lights, many still speed by and endanger lives.

“You know when we’re under these trucks pulling the driveshafts on the big ones, or we’re hooking up our chains or our straps to the cars, we can’t see for a while, we lose visibility of oncoming traffic,” said tower Todd Roush. “So, your mind is wondering as you’re trying to do your job, as cars are literally feet or inches away from your vehicle.”

The rally aimed to raise awareness, honor Keagan, and urge drivers to slow down and move over.

Source: newsbreak.com

Tow Attempt in Minnesota Turns Dangerous

On July 26, a tow truck driver was forced to release a vehicle after being confronted by an armed vehicle owner during a repossession attempt in Farmington, a suburb about 35 miles south of Minneapolis.

According to police, the vehicle’s owner, who is known to law enforcement and has multiple outstanding warrants, allegedly brandished a firearm. Although the weapon was not pointed at the driver, the tow operator feared for his safety and disengaged. The suspect then fled the scene in the vehicle, later abandoning it nearby.

Multiple agencies responded, including K9 teams and air support from the Minnesota State Patrol. A shelter-inplace order was issued for the surrounding area as officers searched for the suspect. Despite an extensive search, the suspect was not found and is still at large.

Source: limitless-news.com

Chicago Drivers Struggle with Damage Claims

When Craig Myers parked in a snow tow zone in February 2025, he accepted the mistake and the towing fee. What he didn’t expect was the severe damage to his Hyundai Santa Fe.

“When I put it in park, the car kept going,” he said. Mechanics told him the parking pin was broken and his transmission needed replacing—likely due to improper towing.

Surveillance video confirmed his SUV, an all-wheel drive vehicle, was towed with rear wheels on the ground—not on a flatbed as experts recommend. Myers filed a claim with United Road Towing (URT), the city’s towing contractor. It was denied.

CBS News Chicago found only 23% of towing damage claims were approved between 2016 and 2024. URT trucks were often linked to unresolved or denied claims.

Myers ultimately received $3,500 from URT after media inquiries. Another driver, Esther Liu, is still waiting over a year after her legal tow caused irreparable damage.

Source: cbsnews.com

“Move Over” Rally Honors Fallen Towman, Raises Awareness

The Michigan Towing Association hosted a “Move Over” rally honoring the life of 25-year-old Keagan Spencer while calling attention to the daily dangers tow truck drivers face.

Spencer, of Hastings, was killed in December 2023 while assisting a disabled vehicle on the roadside. He was engaged to be married and had dreams of raising a family. His father, Todd Spencer, also a tow truck driver, said working on the side of the road is “a scary situation.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and OSHA, the motor vehicle towing industry records approximately 26 fatal injuries per year nationwide. Despite Michigan’s Move Over law requiring drivers to slow down and change lanes when they see emergency flashing lights, many still speed by and endanger lives.

“You know when we’re under these

trucks pulling the driveshafts on the big ones, or we’re hooking up our chains or our straps to the cars, we can’t see for a while, we lose visibility of oncoming traffic,” said tower Todd Roush. “So, your mind is wondering as you’re trying to do your job, as cars are literally feet or inches away from your vehicle.”

The rally aimed to raise awareness, honor Keagan, and urge drivers to slow down and move over.

Source: newsbreak.com

Tow Attempt in Minnesota Turns Dangerous

On July 26, a tow truck driver was forced to release a vehicle after being confronted by an armed vehicle owner during a repossession attempt in Farmington, a suburb about 35 miles south of Minneapolis.

According to police, the vehicle’s owner, who is known to law enforcement and has multiple outstanding warrants, allegedly brandished a fire-

arm. Although the weapon was not pointed at the driver, the tow operator feared for his safety and disengaged. The suspect then fled the scene in the vehicle, later abandoning it nearby.

Multiple agencies responded, including K9 teams and air support from the Minnesota State Patrol. A shelter-in-place order was issued for the surrounding area as officers searched for the suspect. Despite an extensive search, the suspect was not found and is still at large.

Source: limitless-news.com

Chicago Drivers Struggle with Damage Claims

When Craig Myers parked in a snow tow zone in February 2025, he accepted the mistake and the towing fee. What he didn’t expect was the severe damage to his Hyundai Santa Fe.

“When I put it in park, the car kept going,” he said. Mechanics told him the parking pin was broken and his transmission needed replacing—

likely due to improper towing.

Surveillance video confirmed his SUV, an all-wheel drive vehicle, was towed with rear wheels on the ground—not on a flatbed as experts recommend. Myers filed a claim with United Road Towing (URT), the city’s towing contractor. It was denied.

CBS News Chicago found only 23% of towing damage claims were approved between 2016 and 2024. URT trucks were often linked to unresolved or denied claims.

Myers ultimately received $3,500 from URT after media inquiries. Another driver, Esther Liu, is still waiting over a year after her legal tow caused irreparable damage.

Source: cbsnews.com

Surveillance footage captures Craig Myers’ allwheel drive Hyundai Santa Fe being towed with its rear wheels on the ground.