American Towman Magazine - March 2015

Police Towing Conference • Tow Industry Week/American Towman ShowPlace-Las Vegas

Corey Bailey

towman.com

towmantv.com

towweek.com

www.atshowplace.com

Number 143 on Reader Card

Departments Walkaround . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 News Share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Road Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Tow Boss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Tow Engineer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

FEATURE CONTENTS

On the Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

30

Beacons On! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

High Style

AD Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Corey Bailey started Stage 10 Atlanta with the idea of catering to exclusive clientele.

by Brendan Dooley

Repo Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Towman’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . .62 My Baby. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Low Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66 Adventures of A.T. . . . . . . . . . . . .73

36

Get Low to Go Big Adding a lowboy trailer to your fleet expands your hauling business and prospects.

by Brendan Dooley

41

AT ShowPlace-Las Vegas If you have already been, you already know not to miss this show. If you haven’t been, what are you waiting for?

56

Beard’s Towing’s Century 1075S “The Beast” in Dallas, Texas, is a real beauty of a workhorse. p. 64.

Boomerang Recovery The 2014 Medium-Duty winner of a Donnie Recovery Award was for outside-the-box thinking in a theme park.

by Team WreckMaster

4 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Number 109 on Reader Card

Adding a Trailer?

by Dennie Ortiz

First On The Scene!

Dennie Ortiz Steve Calitri

It’s not just forklift operation from Field Editor about operating Terry Abejuela. tow trucks in this Operator safety is always a conbusiness … there cern while working on the busy are other pieces of roadways. Our ever-passionate, equipment that need safety-conscious, Operations Editor to be mastered as well.

Randall Resch covers tire changes Many of you have trailon high-speed roads later ers as part of your fleet for Operator in this issue. Reeling from the hauling side of the busithe tragedy of another ness. Our feature editorial safety is tower fatality on the highon page 36 gets the skinny way in his home state of right from the horse’s always a California, Resch takes a mouth on the advantages closer look at the decisionof adding a lowboy trailer. concern. making process in changSee some of the new equiping a tire on the highway. ment being offered by the top trailer We really appreciate all the great manufacturers. feedback we get from you, our valRead this issue’s Tow Engineer ued readers. Thanks for your supdepartment to pick up some tips on port and be safe out there.

The Man with a Plan

by Brendan Dooley

In this month’s issue, I was inspired after talking with Stage Ten Atlanta owner Corey Bailey (cover story). He took a chance on a dream and appears to be well on his way to achieving it.

When he sent me pictures of his well-appointed equipment and described his business model targeting higherend clients, I was extremely impressed.

I’ll admit that I like the flashy colors and graphics that are much more common to the trucks in this industry, but maybe that makes the matte black scheme on his trucks stand out all the more.

As I’ve learned from all the shops I’ve profiled over the past five years, the most successful find a niche they can dominate in their market. Bailey seems no exception.

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Brendan Dooley Charles Duke

Publisher Editor-In-Chief Editor Senior Editor

Randall Resch

Operations Editor

Terry Abejuela

Field Editor, West

Jim “Buck” Sorrenti David Kolman Bill Simmons

Field Editor, Northeast Chassis Editor Safety Editor

Emily Oz

On Screen Editor

Mark Lacek

Repo Run Editor

Editorial Board Tommy Anderson Don Archer Roy Carlson Debbie Collins Belinda Harris Bill Johnson Ron Mislan Kurt Wilson

Dallas, Texas Jefferson City, Mo. St. Paul, Minn.

Las Vegas, Nev. Greensboro, N.C. South Hadley, Mass.

Warren, N.J. Creve Coeur, Ill.

American Towman Staff Ann Marie Nitti Dennie Ortiz Ellen Rosengart Norma Calitri Neila Smith Miriam Ortiz Henri Calitri Toni Vanderhorst William Burwell Peggy Calabrese Ryan Oser Emily Oz Steve Calitri

Page Layout Artist Advertising Sales Mgr. Senior Account Exec.

VP of Accounts VP Communications Subscription Manager Customer Service Publisher’s Assistant TIW Media Director Regional Advertising Sales iMarketing Manager ATTV Producer President

American Towman Media Headquarters 7 West Street, Warwick, NY 10990 800-732-3869 or 845-986-4546 E-mail: Publisher: dortiz@towman.com Editor-In-Chief: scalitri@towman.com Editor: bdooley@towman.com AT’S Digital Edition: itowman.com AT’S Website: towman.com AT’S Weekly: towindustryweek.com ATTV: americantowmantv.com Copyright ©2015 American Towman Magazine is published 12 times a year by American Towman Media, Inc. Subscription: $50–1 yr; $95–2 yrs • US $65 and $105 • International Editorial Policy: the act of mailing or delivering a letter or article to American Towman Magazine, shall constitute permission to publish that letter or article or any portion thereof. American Towman Magazine reserves the right to edit any and all material submitted. American Towman Media does not test or review products submitted for inclusion in its publications. All included information, specifications and abilities are as claimed by the equipment manufacturer who is solely liable for any defects or misrepresentations in its products.

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Tower Shoots Tow Truck Thief A tow truck driver looking for parking violators in a Dallas, Texas, apartment complex shot and killed a man who police said got into the driver-side of his tow truck.

Police said Lance Lemons got into the tow truck and put it in reverse. They said they do not know why Lemons got into the truck, or his intentions.

The tower, who was at the apartment complex looking for parking violators, shot and killed Lemons, according to detectives. Lemon’s car was not parked near the tow truck.

The tow truck driver, who at press time has not been identified, presented an Arizona concealed handgun license to police.

“We are now working with authorities to determine if Texas recognizes that,” Cotner said. “Again, we’re investigating whether or not he had a provision within the statues to protect his property from theft at nighttime.”

Source: http://dfw.cbslocal.com.

Police Towing, Motor Club Conferences The upcoming Tow Industry Week from May 14-16 in Las Vegas will be a special one, as it will feature two unique conferences that speaks to the bottom line of towing companies.

The Police Towing Conference will highlight many different aspects of towing for law enforcement, such as equipment options, relationship building, and strategies for winning contracts.

The Getting Paid Conference will include the specifics on how to get paid by your motor club. It will feature presentations by individual motor clubs as to what is required, time frames, proper invoicing procedures and other pertinent information to expedite payments to your company.

“Because today’s officer on-scene has other things to do, leaving us towers to do our jobs is a critical component when working with traffic incident management,” said American

Towman Operations Editor Randy Resch. “If you’re serving the lawenforcement community, attending the Police Towing Conference in Las Vegas is your best choice in today’s environment.”

The Getting Paid Conference will feature presentations from six of the towing industry’s motor clubs geared towards instructing towing companies how to expedite payments. Representatives from Allstate Roadside Services, Coach-Net, Geico, Nation Safe Drivers, Road America, and USAC/MD will be on hand to disseminate information on how to get this done in an efficient manner.

Five conferences in all (16 seminars) take place during Tow Industry Week and the American Towman ShowPlace-Las Vegas in the SouthPoint Hotel & Casino, May 14-16.

You may Register online at atshowplace.com.

Tow Business Robbed

Apartment Dwellers to be Reimbursed

During Driver’s Funeral

Some residents of Summit Palms Apartments in Lauderhill, Fla., did just what police told them to do— and their cars still were towed away.

Police were investigating a fatal shooting by a city police officer on Jan. 23 at the apartment complex.

Because of the large crime scene, police asked residents returning home to park their cars elsewhere while police finished their work.

Unfortunately, they parked in tow-away zones.

The city is apologizing and City Manager Chuck Faranda said the city would cover any of the towing charges.

Source: www.sun-sentinel.com.

A thief appar$25,000 in equipently took advanment and tools, tage of the tow and even truck company siphoned diesel that had a driver fuel from trucks. killed in a freeThieves broke way accident. in during the The thief broke funeral of Jabar into the tow yard Issa, 48, who was during the wellkilled while serSky Towing was again victimized when publicized vicing a motorist a thief or thieves targeted the business funeral service who had broken during a well-publicized funeral for an and procession. down on the employee. Nbcsandiego.com image.

Employees at highway.

Sky Towing in Vista, Calif., were gone Anyone with information is asked only five hours, but in that time some- to contact the Escondido Police one cut a hole in a fence lined with Department at 760-839-4722. barbed wire and made off with about Source: www.nbcsandiego.com.

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. . . More than 500 cars were towed . . .

Musical Tribute to Towing’s Fallen A new song pays tribute to towmen who have lost their lives working the roadside, with a salute to the Wall of the Fallen monument in Chattanooga, Tenn.

“Booms in the Sky” is an impassioned ballad of how towmen risk their lives night and day. The lyrics draw a parallel to the dangers endured by other high-risk professions. One verse captures this parallel: “There are those who sign up to die/There are those who feel the flames/Towmen dance on a high wire/At risk just the same.”

The music was composed by veteran singer/songwriter Mike Corbin; lyrics were written by AT’s Steve Calitri. The song will be released this spring on iTunes and Amazon. Corbin and Calitri previously released the trio of Towman Ballads, “The Road Calls,” “Mighty Malone” and “I’ll Return.”

Every September, the Wall of the Fallen holds a ceremony unveiling names of those towmen killed in the past year. About 60 tow operators are killed each year, compared to numbers in single digits for other first responders at highways incidents.

“Maybe the song can help bring attention to the high number of casualties among towmen working the roadways and create more awareness of the ‘Move Over ’ laws,” Calitri said.

Tow Truck Rescues Horse after Fall A 32-year-old retired racehorse in Southborough, Mass., that slipped on ice could not get up without the help of a tow truck.

“She wasn’t able to get up on her own,” said Fire Lt. Neal Aspesi.

Firefighters were called to the scene after Super Tuesday slipped while walking inside a paddock at Hidden Stables. Her owners, Annette and Paul Rodier, were by her side.

A retired racehorse in Massachusetts was rescued by tow truck following an icy slip “It is like a 90-year-old this winter. Wcvb.com image. woman falling,” Annette Rodier said. “We were crossing our fingers.”

After an examination from a veterinarian, a Ted’s of Fayville tow truck lifted the 1,200-lbs. horse to her feet using straps. While suffering from minor hypothermia, Super Tuesday was mostly uninjured, Aspesi said. Aspesi said the rescue took a little over two hours. Source: http://m.wcvb.com.

Snowstorm Brings Record-Breaking Tow Blitz The city of Hartford, Conn., towed and ticketed cars at a record pace during a February snowstorm when a number of people did not comply with the parking snow ban.

More than 500 cars were towed and more than 700 tickets issued in a ticketing and towing blitz.

More than 500 cars were towed during an “We’ve been at it enforcement for a snow-based parking ban in since 11:45 p.m., we’ve Hartford, Conn. Wtnh.com image. actually had about six trucks out and we’ve been going non-stop since midnight,” said operator Joe Miano of Friendly Auto Body and Towing. “Probably towed about 90 cars so far.”

Friendly Auto Body & Towing was one of 13 towing contractors in the city all working overtime for the blitz. Source: http://wtnh.com.

Mike Corbin Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 9

Check Out What’s NEW and HOT! Miller Hook for Frame Rails Miller Industries introduced a new chain assembly designed specifically for lifting or towing on trailer king-pin plates and truck frame rails. The patent-pending hook design features a shorter tip and throat that allows no point-loading on the hook’s tip. The flat-throat design offers more contact area on the king-pin plate or rail, and stops the hook from

cutting the plate and twisting. The trailer plate/frame hook is manufactured in the U.S. along with the 5’ Grade 100 chain and has a working load limit of 15,000 lbs. per assembly. A pair of the assemblies are now standard in the Miller Heavy Duty Chain Package or can be ordered as an individual pair from your Miller distributor.

www.millerind.com Number 200 on Reader Card

Access Ultra Probe 2 Access Tools’ new powered multi-tester probe tool, the Ultra Probe 2, can perform a variety of automotive electrical diagnostic tests. It can power electrical components, perform voltage and ground detection tests, test relays and components, check continuity and identify short circuits. The economically priced Ultra Probe 2 features extra-long jumper cables to reach the rear of the vehicle.

www.caropeningtools.com Number 201 on Reader Card

PowerFlare Electronic LED Safety Lights The PowerFlare Electronic LED Safety Light offers a safe, eco-friendly alternative to incendiary road flares.

The models include non-rechargeable and rechargeable options. The PowerFlare non-rechargeable kit consists of a number of non-rechargeable lights in a custom carry bag along with spare batteries. PowerFlare carry bags come in two sizes: small, which holds up to four lights with spare batteries, and medium, which holds up to eight lights with spare batteries. All PowerFlare carry bags come in camo green, orange, or yellow.

www.pfdistributioncenter.com Number 202 on Reader Card

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Dayton Commercial Truck Tires Bridgestone Commercial’s new line of Dayton commercial truck tires includes eight new Dayton patterns to meet the diverse needs of small fleets in a multitude of trucking segments. The new Dayton lineup features expanded size and ply rating offerings and three SmartWay-verified options available across the United States and Canada. Models include: D510S, D520S: Allposition on-highway tires recommended for the steer position.

D610D, D620D, D630D: On-highway drive tires.

D630M, D640M: All position on/off highway tires.

D410T: On-highway trailer tires.

www.daytontrucktires.com Number 203 on Reader Card

Magnetic ‘Move Over’ Ribbons Stamp Works has designed a new magnetic ribbon for the towing industry to help make the public aware of the dangers that towers face daily. The “Remember Our Fallen” and “Slow Down Move Over” ribbons are a stark reminder to educate motorists of the need to MOVE OVER.

www.stampworks.net Number 204 on Reader Card

Twist-Lock Slip Hooks B/A Products said its patent-pending Twist-Lock Slip Hooks feature the strongest latch ever designed for use on a slip hook. The new latches eliminate out-of-service equipment because of broken flip latches and are constructed of heavy-gauge steel and designed to withstand adverse conditions. The latch swivels 360 degrees, prevents accidental hooking or catching on other objects and come in 5/16”, 3/8” and 1/2” sizes for use with Grade 70 chain.

www.baprod.com Number 205 on Reader Card

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 11

Maintenance Is About Compliance and ‘Uptime’

by Tom Bray

T

he Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, which apply to anyone operating a commercial vehicle in interstate commerce, require that all companies have a systematic maintenance program. The program must include inspections, maintenance and repairs. The program must make sure that the company is operating vehicles that are in safe condition at all times.

However, the regulations do not provide details about what the program must consist of. Decisions such as the inspection and maintenance schedule, what is checked during the inspections, and when components are to be replaced is left entirely up to the company.

In this context, when we talk about inspections we are not talking about the daily inspections required of the driver.

We are talking about bringing the truck into the shop and having a competent technician inspect it. These inspections generally include everything a driver would look at and other items drivers generally do not check. They also involve the technician comparing the vehicle to standards that are stricter than the driver’s standards—drivers are generally only worried about whether or not the vehicle is “safe.”

If you operate entirely in one state and do not haul vehicles that are moving in interstate commerce, then you are covered by your state’s safety and vehicle regulations, not the federal mandates. Most states have regulations that mirror the federal regulations; all states have vehicle condition regulations that must be met at all times.

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Starting Up To start a compliant program, you should contact the original equipment manufacturer of the chassis, body and any add-ons and ask them what the recommended maintenance schedule is for the vehicle. You should also ask what should be included on the inspection and maintenance checklists. Once you have this information, the next step is modifying the OEM recommendations to match your operation.

You should consider your experience with similar vehicles. If you have had trouble with a specific vehicle

component in the past (whether it is a chassis component or an add-on such as a winch or hydraulic system), you may want to have the vehicle in for maintenance more often so the issue can be addressed.

Finally, you should look at the vehicle and determine cutoff points for components that routinely wear out (such as tires and brakes). One source for cutoff points could be the safety regulations (either federal or state).

However, as these set the bare minimum, you may want to set your cutoff points somewhat higher than the regulations.

With tires, the regulations allow non-steering tires on a vehicle to wear down to 2/32” before they are considered too bare to legally operate on the road. As anyone in the towing business knows, 2/32” is not adequate tread on the tires on a tow truck, which is expected to hold the road in all kinds of weather conditions and operational profiles.

The key from the compliance side is to locate and correct vehicle problems before they become a violation of the state or federal vehicle regulations.

To do this, an aggressive and effective maintenance program is required.

Availability

Your maintenance program’s inspections should look at the vehicle and determine cutoff points for components that routinely wear out (such as tires and brakes).

The second reason you want to have an aggressive and effective maintenance program is simple dollars and cents. Most towing operations do not have the luxury of scheduling their calls for service. When a customer calls, you need generally to have a truck available, right then and there.

Dealing with vehicles that cannot

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The key from the compliance side is to locate and correct vehicle problems before they become a violation. operate or break down due to poor maintenance can lead to lost customers. When the call comes in, you want the unit to leave the shop, complete its assignment and return without incident.

To accomplish this, you need to do the same activities that the regulations require. This means conducting regular inspections and maintenance.

Regular inspections and maintenance are what allow you to locate and correct small problems and prevent big problems—such as having trucks that won’t go when you need them, that break down or that are in violation of the safety regulations.

About the Author Thomas Bray is Senior Editor–Transportation Management for J.J. Keller & Associates (jjkeller.com). Contact him at transporteditors@jjkeller.com.

IAA Expands Ohio Branches Insurance Auto Auctions (www.iaai.com) recently expanded two Ohio branches, in Columbus and Cleveland “Our goal is to provide the best service to our customers,” said John Kett, CEO/president of IAA. “The increased capacity in our facilities provides us the ability to serve our customers more quickly and efficiently, particularly during these difficult winter months.”

The Cleveland branch added 9.5 acres; Columbus received an additional site.

Jerr-Dan Adds Distributor Jerr-Dan Corp. (www.jerrdan.com) welcomed Rick’s Truck and Equipment in Kenton, Ohio, to its distributor network in February.

“We have been in business for over 20 years. Looking at where we started to where the dealership is today, our philosophy and goals are very much illustrated,” said Rick Whitaker, owner/president of Rick’s Truck and Equipment (www.ricksautosales. com). He said that philosophy centers on setting goals and persistence in achieving them.

“After selling used rollbacks and

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wreckers at our dealership for years, I really wanted to become a Jerr-Dan distributor and sell new trucks and equipment,” he said.

‘Angels’ Look to Improve Safety Guard Rail Angels, started in Sept.

2014, looks to form a cross-industry coalition of first responders with the intent of reducing the frequency of highway deaths.

Claiming that the Move Over laws “aren’t working,” they look to form a vast, organized network of individuals who can fill in the gaps where the laws fall short.

“Through official memberships, social media, and an on-scene presence, we’re seeking to popularize the selfless act of ‘running blocker’ for each other, while on the job,” their website stated.

Source: www.guardrailangels.org.

Canada Tow Show is Oct. 2-3 The Professional Towing Association of Quebec’s (APDQ) 2015 national tow show is scheduled for Oct. 2-3. The event will run from 3 p.m.-8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday at the Centrexpo of Drummondville, Quebec, Canada (an hour from Montreal). For more information, go to www.apdq.ca.

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Forklift Operation

by Terry Abejuela In towing, we primarily move vehicles with an Eagle Claw attachment or auto loader.

An important factor for stability is the load center, which is the distance from the front face of the forks to the center of the load.

T

he towing and recovery industry has long used forklifts in the management of stored vehicles in their storage facilities.

Because of our very specific use of the forklift, there has not been industry-specific training available.

With more than 1 million lift trucks in operation today, it makes perfect sense that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires training for employees operating a forklift.

Even though the training available is not industry-specific, the basics of forklift operation must be understood.

Make sure you are familiar with and comply with all federal and state OSHA requirements. The OSHA 16 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

requirements for design and construction criteria include: • All nameplates and markings must be in place and legible.

• All modifications and additions that affect the safe operation and capacity must be approved by the manufacturer in writing.

• The Falling Object Protective Structure and Load Back Rest must not interfere with the operator’s visibility.

• The LBR must be capable in size and strength to prevent the load or any part of the load from falling towards the operator.

• There are also specific requirements for the overhead guard

coverage area, strength, size of guard openings, and operator visibility.

Training OSHA requires that forklift training include three formal, practical and evaluation elements. Formal training consists of lecture, discussion, interactive computer learning, videotape and/or written material. Practical training includes hands-on demonstration by the trainer and exercises by the trainee on the type of forklift they will be using for work. Evaluation includes observing the trainees performance while doing actual work using the forklift.

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Number 213 on Reader Card Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 17

I recommend that all forklift operators be provided their own copy of the forklift manufacturers operator’s manual to review and keep for reference.

Once the initial training has taken place, the forklift operator should be re-evaluated once every three years.

An employer may require an employee to go through refresher training if they have been involved in an accident (or near-miss), received an evaluation that reveals unsafe forklift operation, the employee is assigned to operate a different type of forklift or a condition in the workplace changes that could affect the safe operation of the lift.

All forklift operators should be trained on how to conduct an inspection of the forklift and to identify and report unsafe conditions. Tow companies should use a pre-inspection sheet just like for their tow trucks. Preinspection should include checking: • Fluid levels.

• Battery cables, water level and general condition.

• Evidence of damage (missing, bent, broken or loose bolts, nuts or chains).

• Evidence of fluid leaks.

• Evidence of damage to hydraulic hoses (abrasion, cuts, kinks).

• Correct operation of the horn.

• All safety devices and labeling.

• Condition of the wheels and tires.

• Evidence of damage to the forks or attachments.

Unsafe conditions should be reported immediately and the forklift should be taken out of service until the unsafe conditions are corrected.

Safe Operation Forklift operators should be provided training in the safe work practice of accessing and egressing the forklift.

Before accessing the forklift, the operator should check to make sure that their work shoes or boots do not have any grease on them and their hands are clean and dry. Operators must maintain three points of contact.

Both hands and one foot should be in contact with the forklift whenever mounting or dismounting the forklift.

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The forklift should be mounted and dismounted from the side without the gearshift.

Grab a handhold and the FOPS or the seat restraint and FOPS while stepping up onto the forklift. Avoid using the steering wheel as a handhold. The forklift should be mounted and dismounted from the side without the gearshift.

Overturns are a leading cause of injuries and death to forklift operators.

Only attempt to start or operate the forklift from the driver’s seat to ensure you are in control of the forklift. Make sure the transmission is in neutral, the parking brake is applied and you are applying the service brake when you start the forklift. If the forklift is equipped with a restraint such as a seatbelt or lap bar, you must use it whenever operating the forklift.

When driving an unloaded forklift, keep the forks approximately 2” to 4” off of the ground. This height may need to be adjusted if you are operating on a surface that contains bumps or uneven terrain.

Make sure to maintain good visibility in all directions around the forklift. If a load is obstructing your view forward, it may be safer to drive in reverse. Of course, this is an unnatural position and should be avoided as much as possible but would, in most cases, be safer than driving forward with an obstructed view.

Travel at a speed slow enough to allow the forklift to be brought to a complete stop in a safe manner. Avoid driving on wet or slippery surfaces.

When traveling on an incline, keep the load on the uphill side. When traveling on an incline with an unloaded forklift, keep the forks on the downhill side.

Never carry passengers on the forklift.

Good Balance A critical factor in the safe operation of a forklift is balance. A forklift works on the basic principle of two weights balanced on opposite sides of a pivot point. The front wheels of the forklift are the pivot point. The load lifted by the forks must be balanced with the weight of the forklift. A properly loaded forklift cannot exceed its rated capacity. In addition to the balance forward and backward, the forklift must be balanced side to side.

The center of gravity of a load is

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Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

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For OSHA, all nameplates and markings must be in place and legible.

the single point about which the load is balanced in all directions. All objects will seek their center. Since the forklift is able to move the load up and down as well as back and forth, its center of gravity can change. When the forklift is moved on uneven surfaces, the center can also move without moving the forks.

Turning or stopping quickly can create a tip hazard.

Overturns are a leading cause of injuries and death to forklift operators. Forklift trainers refer to the “stability triangle”—an imaginary triangle that goes between the drive wheels and the pivot point of the steering axle. If the combined center is forward of the drive axles, the forklift will tip forward. If the combined center is outside the stability triangle, the forklift will tend to turn on its side.

In towing, we primarily move vehicles with an Eagle Claw attachment or auto loader. Because we are lifting the load at the far end of the forks, the combined center of gravity is further away from the front wheels. Turning or stopping quickly can create a tip hazard. Turning and stopping should be completed at a slow speed to avoid tipping.

In the event of a tip-over, do not attempt to jump off of the forklift. Instead, hold tight on to the steering wheel, brace your feet and lean away from the impact.

Another important factor for stability is the load center, which is the distance from the front face of the forks to the center of the load. The longer the load center is, the more the capacity of the forklift will be reduced. The capacity of the forklift at different load centers should be indicated on its ratings plate.

A forklift is considered unattended when the operator is more than 25’ away, even if it is still in view of the operator, or when the operator leaves the forklift and it is out of view regardless of the distance. Whenever a forklift is parked or left unattended, the loaded or unloaded forks must be fully lowered, controls neutralized, power shut off and brakes set.

Some companies may also require that the fuel supply be shut off, especially with propane-operated forklifts. Select a hard level surface to park on. If it must be parked on a grade use wheel chocks.

If your forklift runs on propane, your operators must be trained on the proper handling of propane including storage and fueling.

I recommend that all tow company owners do some research and either Terry Abejuela has 30+ years of hire a qualified comlight-duty towing-and-recovery pany to provide the experience. He is also a light-duty forklift training for level 1 instructor for the California Tow Truck Association since 1998. their employees or develop your own.

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Turning Price Shoppers into Customers

by Don Archer

D

arian called from the college, his SUV had issues and needed to be taken to St. Louis. I figured the mileage and told him our rates—and could have just stopped right there—but his disappointment drew me in.

It was obvious that he couldn’t afford to have it towed the 120 miles; so I asked what was wrong with the vehicle. He told me the transmission was out and his parents wanted him to shop around for a good rate on towing. I suggested that he take it to a local shop and save on the tow bill. He said he’d call me back.

In the book “How Adam Smith Can Change Your Life,” author Russ Roberts uses the example of a flooded basement to explain how we can sometimes be blind to our own faults.

He does so by demonstrating how those in different lines of work would propose to solve the same problem.

They all see the solution through their own lens.

A foundation repairman might suggest $30,000 worth of work; trenching and re-peering to solve the problem of a flooded basement. A gutter installer would say that the old gutters were the problem. A sump-pump salesman might insist a sump pump is the answer, while a landscaper would say that building a berm would do the trick. They all see the solution through their own lens.

In his assessment, Roberts isn’t suggesting that these professionals are doing anything unscrupulous; it’s just that—to a hammer, everything looks like a nail. We in the towing business 22 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Suggesting a local shop for transmission service may have negated a bigger tow bill, but the emphasis was on service first.

are no different. When you drive a tow truck, every vehicle issue can be solved with a TOW to a repair shop— or junkyard.

With Darian I could have just blurted out our rates hoping to get the long-distance tow; and, most likely, he wouldn’t have called back.

But he did call back, and with his grandmother was on the line. So with an eye on serving FIRST, I took the opportunity to explain that if their plan was to get the vehicle fixed and money was tight, she might as well consider taking it to someone local.

For the amount she’d pay for the tow bill to get the thing back to her neck of the woods—she could have had a portion of the transmission paid for already.

She was slow to trust me or the repair shops in my area, but did take the numbers I provided and said she’d call back. An hour later she called back

and we towed the SUV to a shop in town.

Darian’s grandmother was surprised and happy, and we snagged a tow we might have lost to a low-baller.

Not only did she save money on the tow bill, but the cost to fix the transmission locally was considerably less than anyplace she could find in her area.

Editor’s note: This story originally ran on AT’s sister site, towindustryweek.com, which features industry news, training, recoveries, new products and more. Don’t miss out—make sure to check it out each week.

Don Archer lives and works in Jefferson City, Mo., where he and his wife, Brenda, own and operate Broadway Wrecker, a 12-truck operation that’s been in business since the 1950s. Email him at don@broadwaywrecker.com..

‘Move Over’ Cited in $6.5M Settlement The family of a tower killed by a tractor-trailer on the shoulder of I-95 in Florida reached a $6.5 million pretrial settlement with the trucking company.

Kit Tappen, 44, a tow operator with Complete Collision, was helping a stranded motorist in the emergency lane last June. He was hit when the semi drifted into the emergency lane.

“The most important part of this is that the trucker violated the ‘Move Over’ law,” said lawyer Craig Goldenfarb, who represented Tappen’s widow and three young sons. He argued the semi’s driver should have slowed or moved at least one lane over.

Court records show the family secured a $6.5 million award, including three annuities to pay for the children's education.

Source: www.dailybusinessreview.com.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

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TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 23

No More Fatal Tire Service Industry history demonstrates that working the shoulder’s traffic-side is almost a death sentence waiting to happen.

by Randall C. Resch

W

ith the tow operator killed on January 17 while executing a highway tire change in Vista, Calif., still under investigation as of press time, it seems prudent to cover tire-change safety. There may be procedures to be followed per contract, so what safety methods are acceptable when conducting tire changes on highspeed highways?

A Florida tower responded to a flat-tire call on an area highway. Seeing it too dangerous to change the tire, the tower took charge by politely, but aggressively explaining the dangers to his customer. He quickly loaded the vehicle onto his carrier when moments later, the customer ’s vehicle was struck by a vehicle drifting onto the

Jabar Issa, 48, was struck and killed while changing a customer’s tire on Highway 78 in San Marcos, Calif.

NBC San Diego image.

24 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

shoulder. The tow operator, because of his decisive action to load vs. not changing the tire, survived.

Industry history demonstrates that working the shoulder’s traffic-side is almost a death sentence waiting to happen. Tow operators and service personnel are repeatedly being killed.

Distracted driving remains the No. 1 killer of tow and service personnel.

Consider these questions for your safety (regardless of the initiating party): • When you the tower or service technician perceive service is too dangerous based on the vehicle’s location, what’s your alternate plan in serving your customer and protecting your life and theirs?

• Once you’ve obtained the customer’s keys, did you move the vehicle to a safer location to service the vehicle?

• Did you advise your customer of the extreme danger, telling them you’re going to load their vehicle and take it off the highway to be serviced elsewhere?

• If the customer refuses to have it towed, what’s next?

• Did your dispatcher call the club’s customer service representative making them aware of what you need to do?

Why so important? First off, who’s the on-scene expert to service and safety activities: You or your customer? Where does it say that tow company personnel are required (for any reason) to risk injury or death for the price and convenience of a service call?

I am not familiar with any service contract or roadside service plan where words demand total and complete service when best safety and survival practices must be considered.

Why should the motoring public remotely consider that they’re more experienced in the dangers of working the highways than professionally trained tow and service personnel?

They’re not.

When your customer refuses to tow their vehicle off the highway, what are your options?

• Re-explain the life-saving benefits of Tow First.

• Call your company’s supervisor for direction.

• Refuse service, leave the vehicle, but assist your customer off the highway to a nearby service location or safe place.

• Call law enforcement to assist.

Owners, before someone in your company is injured or killed, these practices should be totally understood and repeated on an on-going basis.

Special Relationship What reasonable and prudent actions are towers responsible for when arriving at a service call that’s too risky? Regardless as to the type of call or who initiated it, once towers have made contact with the motorist, a Special Relationship is immediately established. That relationship is “an obligation for tow truck operators and service technicians to conform to certain standards of conduct for the protection and well-being of others against an unreasonable risk of harm.”

Upon the tower’s arrival, they’re considered expert on-scene and shall impart all necessary safety instructions to coincide with immediate and safe placement or location of the individuals. It is the tower’s responsibility to disclose whatever risks are present based on conditions and experience.

Why should the motoring public remotely consider that they’re more experienced in the dangers of working the highways?

At no time shall motorists be simply left to their own accord once a Special Relationship is established. Towers shall use necessary means, methods, techniques and verbiage to ensure safety is on-going by limiting their movements.

You can bet some motorists refuse completely because they’re flat-out stubborn; you can’t fix stupid. Some think their car will get damaged being loaded, the rim will be ruined if the car’s moved, or that it’s going to take too much of their valuable time.

Because you’re the trained professional on-scene, a Special Relationship demands a decision that is in line with best practices. We know that we’re not supposed to be disrespectful or impoWork the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

lite, but there’s a fine line in providing an honest life-saving admonishment that tow company management should stand-behind.

It’s important to offer options and solutions if getting you both off the highway alive is your No. 1 priority.

Most customers aren’t worried about what you perceive as dangerous. That being the case, try your best sales speech to convince them that you’re not going to get killed for a flat tire for anybody.

Bottom line: Don’t leave them there to fend for themselves—think about the solutions you could offer.

Safe Access Depending on the niche, numerous items of equipment and accessories are available that make the tower’s job more professional, easier, more efficient and safer. Because tow trucks and their owners have preferences as different as night and day, Tow Truck A might be equipped bare bones while Tow Truck B has every bling gadget known to man.

I prefer that every tow truck in a company’s fleet is outfitted in the same or like-type manner based on the niche. Since most tow companies provide roadside service response for clubs and breakdown assistance programs, equipping tow trucks should be consistent.

Thinking safety first, equipment should be located to reflect safety of working on the roadway’s non-traffic side—especially when responding to calls on high-speed freeways. Towers should never retrieve service items from traffic-side boxes. Items like chains, snatch-blocks and recovery accessories can be located on the driver’s side; however, floor jacks, air tanks, hand tools, lockout tools, chocks, battery cables and tow extension lights should be accessible from non-traffic side boxes.

As my company’s fleet grew, equipment was mounted in the same location in all trucks and carriers. Any of my drivers assisting another driver could locate and retrieve any item

continue to page 28

Number 121 on Reader Card

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 25

Number 176 on Reader Card

BEACONS ON! continued from page 25 without having to hunt for the item.

As your fleet grows, consider matching up equipment and location. You’ll see that there’s definitely a method to the madness.

Tactical Tire Change If your company is a contract provider for auto clubs and roadside assistance (insurance) plans, your towers should be thoroughly trained in the Big Three procedures and techniques of service problems: jumpstarts, fuel delivery and tire changes.

Service providers have learned that in providing roadside assistance, there are inherent dangers and safety considerations associated with each individual service.

Enthusiasts of NASCAR agree that part of racing fun is watching the races and seeing the antics of pit crews.

NASCAR Hall of Famer Leonard Wood applied technology and logic to time-keeping processes as tracks got bigger and cars became faster. Since the 1960s, pit-stop times have dropped considerably as crews practiced and fine-tuned strategies. The average pit-

28 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

time by Formula One’s Team McLaren is 2.4 seconds.

At no time shall motorists be simply left to their own accord once a Special Relationship is established.

Fast-forward the tire change process into what is currently taught to our military’s Special Forces. Envision a patrol’s HMWWV tire running over an obstacle in some high-profile and dangerous area where there’s potential of sniper fire. Where their patrol vehicle now sits somewhat disabled, the car commander must consider the decision to hightail out of danger by driving on the flat tire or change it. How thoroughly trained his

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crew is in changing the tire directly relates to the speed, efficacy and safety of changing the tire—lives are at stake.

Unless tow operators and service technicians are well-versed in the how-to with each service, the worst can and will happen—batteries explode, gasoline can flash, vehicles fall from jacks—and apathetic motorists speed by inches away. Towers are most vulnerable working tire changes and gas calls on the trafficside of high-speed freeways.

As the old SWAT sergeant said, “Get in fast, get out faster.” The longer you work that flat tire, the greater your exposure to impact. If you can, consider towing it first to a safer work area.

Editor’s note: Portions of this article first appeared in the Operations pages of TowInudstryWeek.com.

Randall C. Resch is a retired California police officer and has been in the towing and recovery industry for over 40 years as a tow business owner, manager, consultant and light-duty trainer. Email Randy at rreschran@aol.com.

Number 149 on Reader Card

High High

W W Stage Ten’s 10-Year Plan

Style Style

hen Corey Bailey decided he was going to strike out on his own, he knew he needed a plan. He was coming up on 30, his son had recently been born and he decided to take some chances to control his destiny.

He started Stage Ten Atlanta, a towing and transport company. The name comes from the “Stage” he was at in life (about to turn 30), and the “Ten” from his 10-year plan to start and run 10 businesses over a 10-year period.

In fact, Stage Ten belongs to his Ten Capital Investments Co., and he’s recently added Stage Ten Branding Solutions that does the graphics and wraps for his striking trucks.

But before all that began, he knew that he needed to know more.

“I worked for a local tow company that focused on recovery, road service, doing police work and some [private impound]. They had 50-plus trucks,” Bailey said.

They saw I was a clean-cut guy with clean equipment.

“I realized what it would take to start my own company, so I got out of a truck with that company and went behind a desk to dispatch for about 12 months to figure out the back end portion.”

When he left there, he started Stage Ten Atlanta. Bailey said he concentrated on developing a plan that would separate his fledgling company from the other established tow companies in the region.

He saw his niche as becoming a “trendsetter,” and craft an image opposite to what he called the typical towing stereotypes.

“I wanted to stay more of a clean company; no angry customers from police calls,” Bailey said. “That’s how we got more into the towing and transport side of the industry.”

That meant cultivating clients on the high-end side of transportation.

“I went out to the dealerships and got Land Rover, Jaguar, Rolls-Royce,

Having new, clean, attractive cohesively branded equipment was an essential part of Corey Bailey’s plan in building Stage Ten Atlanta from the ground up. Off-site equipment photo shoot by Dan Carmody/Studio7 at a local paintball course for special effect.

by Brendan Dooley

30 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 31

Though not a regular on recoveries, Stage Ten did have a customer wreck in their own driveway.

Porsche, and reached out. They saw I was a clean-cut guy with clean equipment and next thing you know, we were very involved in the dealership portion of things more than roadside.”

Those high-end dealerships kept Stage Ten busy on the transport of vehicles for delivery of new vehicles from Atlanta throughout the region and into neighboring states, mainly moving dealer swaps. Bailey said the dealerships create the money for that business in the financing paperwork.

“Roadside assistance is not how you get rich,” Bailey said. “It keeps you afloat, pays your fuel bills and keeps your billboards—your trucks— moving across town. Transport is where we make the bulk of our money.

And there’s less wear-and-tear on our equipment due to the longer trips and highway miles.”

Keeping their sharp-looking wreckers in neat trim was an essential part of the business plan for Bailey.

The exotic and luxury dealerships appreciated the look of his equipment in serving their particular finicky customers, and word of mouth spread

32 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

about Stage Ten. Add to that a touch of networking and Bailey found he soon needed more equipment to run his calls.

After reaching out to a friend who was a sports agent, they got plugged into some sports management companies and haven’t looked back.

We do a lot of transport for a lot of athletes.

“We work with two of the biggest sports management companies here locally,” Bailey said. “We do a lot of transport for a lot of athletes—baseball players, football and basketball players. In the offseason, we move their cars around for them.

“We ended up getting more work than we had equipment. … Now we have about 80-plus customers in sports.”

Stage Ten’s Fleet Attention to detail on the trucks was part and parcel of building the niche, Bailey said, to separate his company from other companies.

“Previous experience showed customers are ‘anal’ about vehicles and especially high-dollar cars,” Bailey said. “We wanted to come up with a design to draw attention and recognition. We move about 60 to 65 calls a day on roadside service, so people consistently see our trucks.

“We wash our trucks twice each week. We don’t drive dirty trucks. Drivers cannot smoke in our trucks and are fully uniformed with black cargo pants and Stage Ten fitted hats and Tshirts and hoodies (for winter). Everything is branded. Everything we have is coordinated—blues, blacks.”

The Fords are ordered in black and the flat-black wraps come from Stage Ten Branding solutions, who designed the logo, printed the graphics and wrapped their own trucks.

Bailey said all the details play into people seeing the brand and associating it with a high-end company. No

Corey Bailey Their Ford F-350/Vulcan 812 Intruder composite was up to the task to get it righted and towed.

accident scenes, no salvage calls; so cars being towed are typically kempt.

“We have different equipment for what we’re doing. All the Fords are 2013 chassis and newer; attractive trucks,” Bailey said. They have a mix of Vulcan Intruder 812 composite wreckers and JerrDan XLP Shark flatbeds. They also have a 48’ triaxle trailer for transporting exotics, and a 16’ enclosed trailer for motorcycles.

We ended up getting more work than we had equipment.

“The Intruder 812 composite wrecker bodies are light, they look nice and are really good on fuel,” he said. “The Jerr-Dan XLP load angle is awesome so we don’t need to use any wood and really helps us with the Aston Martins and Porsches.”

Each truck includes dollies and Go-Jaks in the toolbox, and permanently mounted iPads in the cab for calls (using Towbook for dispatch).

Going forward, Bailey’s 2015 push is to cultivate the PPI side of the business. The company added a 1.2-acre impound yard and is cultivating clients at the bigger shopping malls and several exclusive clubs in the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

Bailey said he also likes the Intruders for working in the low clearances of parking garages around Atlanta's metro area.

Bailey prefers the load angle of his Jerr-Dan XLP Shark flatbeds for loading exotics and sports cars.

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 33

Number 174 on Reader Card

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TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 35

Get Low to

Go Big

by Brendan Dooley

Manufacturers’ Advice to Add a Lowboy Trailer

W

hen I was talking with a tow boss recently (see sidebar), she mentioned a pressing need to add more trailers for the hauling side of the business. She had some multi-axle trailers, and was wondering about the specs she would need in adding a lowboy model.

TrailEze said the TE80DG-BUS is its most versatile lowboy trailer, capable of hauling construction equipment, buses, RVs, fire trucks— almost anything.

36 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

We reached out to several trailer manufacturers for their advice to towers who want to get into or expand their hauling operations with a lowboy trailer.

“Towing went from not a lot of trailers to now everyone has at least one type,” said Jeff Hruby, Trail-Eze district sales manager. “Some even have one for recovery, one for cleanup. … The sliding axle became popular as a multi-piece unit.”

He said lowboy trailers have become more popular over the past few years as many construction companies and rental companies have increasingly called on the towing industry for hauling.

“It’s really an opportunity for most tow companies to generate a total new revenue stream in transport,” said Jim Ladner, Landoll sales manager. “Working transport properly, it can almost become a whole new company or division that you can market and grow and not wait on tow calls to come in on the phone.”

The manufacturers agreed that, first and foremost, towers must know what they plan to haul and where they plan to haul it. These two pieces of information are absolutely key to help match you with the right equipment.

“Time invested to understand what your customer needs is especially important, to do that homework to move loads in the states you’ll be hauling,” said Ladner. “The research time invested will give [return on

A Tow Boss’ View Debbie Collins, president of Big Valley Towing in Las Vegas, Nev., had some of the lowboy questions that began the research for this article. She also had some insights into insurance and permits that potential haulers should consider: “At the beginning of 2014 I was ready to really expand the hauling side, but started to do my research. …

“One thing I learned is get more than enough insurance to cover the equipment. One of my customers told me that if I wanted the contract I needed triple the insurance that I currently had. Yes, the premium hurt; but they are a VERY good customer now. Once word gets out that you are moving equipment for Company A,

investment] like you can’t believe in getting the right equipment to go out and service your customers.”

Without doing your homework ahead of time, he said you might get a nice truck and trailer only to find out it’s the wrong setup for what you need. Researching your ROI means looking at life-cycle costs on your

people know you have enough insurance and are more willing to use you. …

“The biggest pain in the butt is getting oversized permits in California. …

You shouldn’t sink any money into anything unless you know your permitting rules and regs and have a customer base you know you can count on.

“Buying equipment and hoping for the best will not work.”

trailer and developing a 10- or 15-year plan for it, not just a three- or four-year outlook.

“You should be buying into a company that will support you for that 1015 year period,” he said.

So, what are you hauling?

“What it boils down to with a lowboy is what you’re going to haul. How

Talbert’s 55-ton spread-axle, low-deck trailer features an 18” deck height and an E1 Nitro so that it can run with three axles, four axles close-coupled or in a 3+1 spread-axle configuration.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 37

Landoll’s Model 855C-Construction lowboy is available as a three-axle trailer or as a three-axle with optional flip fourth axle. The gooseneck is a Landoll patent that gives the operator the control at his fingertips. The seven-position ride height gives needed ground clearance and lowers the deck height to carry extremely high loads.

big is it; what’s the weight, height and width?” said Trail King’s Mike Heschke, director of governmental sales.

A good sales rep will need to know the dimensions of what you plan to haul most often with the trailer and the range of things you intend to move.

After you know what and where, you finally can dig into the specifics.

“The biggest thing guys want to hear is if it can be a multi-piece trailer,” said Hruby, “‘What all can I haul?’ Be specific in what you’re asking for— know exactly what you will haul.

What is biggest, what is smallest? All will factor when loading a piece of equipment, so be specific and ask

Kalyn Siebert’s 53-ton Hydraulic Removable Gooseneck is a custom-built application in its HRG series that are especially for the safe and efficient front-loading of wheeled and tracked equipment. They include five-position gooseneck height controls, and fixed two-axle through four-axle configurations that meet all weight and load requirements from 35-ton to 65-ton capacity.

38 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Trail King’s Hydraulic Detachable Gooseneck Trailer features adjustable ride height control, five-position gooseneck door adjustment for a full 8” range of king-pin height settings and a new arched gooseneck design for increased truck frame clearance, even at the lowest kingpin height setting.

questions and provide info of what you’re hauling.”

After you cover the “whats” come the “wheres.” There are different road regulations in each state. Which ones will you be traveling through?

“Sales people will be prepped to ask where you are hauling,” said Greg Smith, Talbert Manufacturing’s VP of sales and marketing. “Back east, there are more low bridges and deck height is very key. It’s not that way in the Plains states. … Every state, and province, have their own bridge laws.

We want to optimize for conditions of where [the tower] travels the most.”

“What states do they need to work in?” added Ladner. “Regulations differ on axle capacity, spacing, counts. They need a truck that matches the trailer that matches the application to be legal with the right axles, horsepower, tire size, etc.”

After you know what and where, you finally can dig into the specifics on your new lowboy trailer. You should know by now your deck height needs and capacity. What about the operation of the actual trailer?

“The lowboy is more of an equipment-moving trailer with so many options in mechanical removable, Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

On the Web www.kalynsiebert.com www.landoll.com www.talbertmfg.com www.traileze.com www.trailking.com hydraulic removable and folding goosenecks,” said Steve Gould, Kalyn Siebert senior product manager.

“Hydraulic or mechanical can come down to Chevy-versus-Ford-type preferences on what you like; but how frequently you will be removing the gooseneck may impact your decision.

Hydraulic is definitely quicker and easier.”

“Highway haulers going long distances can be mechanical detachable.

But for a lot of local hauling, loading it multiple times a day—hydraulic is much easier to operate,” Hruby said.

“You can have winches front, rear or both, for doing recovery or moving dead equipment onto the trailer without needing a tow truck there.”

More than one rep said that options for lowboys can include custom-built modifications to lower deck

heights or adjust widths, for example.

It’s another area where doing your homework helps you get the best trailer to suit your customer’s needs.

Even tie-downs can be customized.

“Think of how you want that equipment tied down, whether using D-rings or specific placements to customize to your hauling operation,” Heschke said. You can have a PTO and self-contained power unit on the trailer to operate the gooseneck vs. having a PTO on the truck.

The most important thing all the manufacturers agree on is that you need to know your customer base, and planned customer base, so you know what and where you will be hauling.

Keep in mind other customers or segments you may be able to service with your trailer. After that, the right salespeople can help you find the right trailer solution for your business.

Editor Brendan Dooley joined AT in January 2011 after serving as the editor of two magazines covering the auto repair industry for shop owners, techs and tool distributors. His experience includes hard news on daily newspapers and editorial leadership at vintage motorcycle and car magazines. Brendan is WreckMaster 6/7A certified.

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 39

Number159 on Reader Card

REGISTER NOW BEFORE APRIL 30TH & $AVE! Las Vegas, NV • May 14-16,2015 Mail to: 7 West Street, Warwick, NY 10990 • Fax to 845-986-5181 Phone: 800-732-3869 ext. 214 By advance-registering, the company “Boss” and one guest are admitted free to Exhibit Hall.

A $5 fee applies to all others. Children under 14 free.

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1a. If NO check your primary business: ❏ Towing/Recovery ❏ Service Station ❏ Auto Repair/Serv. Ctr. ❏ Auto/Truck Dealership ❏ Repossession ❏ Vehicle Leasing ❏ Transport/Trailer Serv. ❏ Distributor Equip ❏ Salv/Autoparts ❏ Lockout ❏ Truck Repair ❏ Other______________ ❏ Auto Body Shop

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❏ Service Station ❏ Auto/Truck Dealership ❏ Vehicle Leasing ❏ Distributor Equip ❏ Lockout ❏ Other______________

❏ I authorize/approve purchases ❏ No authority ❏ I recommend 5. # tow trucks in fleet: ❏ 1-3 ❏ 4-7 ❏ 8-12 ❏ 13-16 ❏ 17+ 6. Types of trucks in fleet (check those that apply): ❏ Light Duty ❏ Medium Duty ❏ Heavy Duty ❏ Transport ❏ Class 7/8 ❏ Service Vehicle ❏ Carriers ❏ Rotators ❏ Other 7. Number of unclaimed vehicles sold to salvage or auctioned each month: ❏ 10 ❏ 20 ❏ 30 ❏ 40 ❏ 50 ❏ 75 ❏ 100

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EXHIBIT HALL • Fri. & Sat.: 12 Noon - 6 pm; 5/15-16. • 1st & 2nd registrants are free: each additional $5 per person. ❏ Yes, please advance register me for exhibit hall. Badge is good for both exhibit hall days! . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5 per person ❏ Conference Passport • Passport good for all Conference Seminars starting Thurs. afternoon, Fri. & Sat. mornings. $75 advance registration fee; $125 on site – Save $50 & register now . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75 per person ❏ 1st registrant ❏ 2nd registrant ❏ 3rd registrant ❏ 4th registrant ❏ Heavy-Duty Recovery Training: Conventional & Rotator • Thurs. 5/14: 8 am-Noon; 1-5 pm, Fri. 5/15: 8 am-Noon, 4-8 pm $595 per person advance registration fee; $695 on-site. Fee also includes Conference Passport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$595 per person Conducted by WreckMaster, includes 8-hrs. classroom & 8-hrs. hands-on instruction inside South Point Arena. ❏ 1st registrant ❏ 2nd registrant ❏ 3rd registrant ❏ 4th registrant ❏ American Towman Cup • Wrecker Pageant. Check class you will compete in. One vehicle per class & up to four per company. $50/$75 Trucks enter Thurs. 8 am-5 pm, Fri. 8-11 am and stay in Arena until Sat., 7 pm • $50: ❏ Light (pre-2014) ❏ Light (2014-2015) ❏ Medium ❏ Vintage (Pre-1985) ❏ Service/Support Truck • $75: ❏ HD Single Axle ❏ HD Tandem ❏ Carrier ❏ Rotator ❏ AT’s Desert Smoke VIP Passport • Fri. 5/15, 9 pm; In the poolside gazebo at South Point Hotel. Sponsored by Savatech Includes (1) AT Signature cigar, (1) drink ticket, (1) premium cigar & a special gift by Savatech. . . . . . . .$20 per person: ❏ AT Open (Golf) • Thurs., 5/14, 8 am; Tow Bosses & Industry Suppliers compete for AT Open Golf Tourney. Sponsored by USAC/MD ❏ 1st registrant ❏ 2nd registrant ❏ 3rd registrant ❏ 4th registrant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125 per person ❏ The Towman Monument Reception - AT Chops Thurs. 5/14, 6 pm; FREE “All Chops” buffet. South Point Arena Concourse. . . .# attending: ❏ Live Recovery Demo • Thurs. 5/14, 7 pm at South Point Arena. Sponsored by TwinState Equip. & Jerr-Dan. . . . . . . . .# attending: ❏ AT’s Desert Smoke • Fri. 5/15, 9 pm; Poolside at South Point Hotel. FREE hand-rolled cigar, Sponsored by Savatech . . .# attending: ❏ Live Recovery Demo • Sat. 5/16, 11 am at South Point Arena. Sponsored by Miller Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .# attending: ❏ Saturday RIBS FEST Sat. 5/16, Afternoon; FREE to Advance Registrants only: South Point Arena. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .# attending:

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Number 196 on Reader Card

Problem-solving in Pennsylvania

by Mark Lacek

I

’m cold, standing here looking into the window of the large service garage. The place is lit up inside like any other work night, but tonight is not just any night. Trucks are parked inside, all in different stages of repair or just waiting to be serviced. Absent is the hammering of steel, background music or the muffled sounds of mechanics crowded around a lunchroom table offering verbal abuse to one another.

The cold air is hard and it stings that area between by wool gloves and the end of my coat sleeve. A chimney releases the smell of a wood-burning fireplace, about a half-mile away; it smells good. I continue standing there looking into the window of the silent garage. I reach into one of the many

pockets of my full-desert camouflage gear and pull out my iPhone to check the time—it’s five minutes to midnight. I’ve been standing in this same spot for about 15 minutes. If there were anyone inside, I would have heard a sound. If there was a dog, it would have picked up my scent by now and broken the silence with a bark. I hope.

I make my decision—I’m alone and all the employees have taken the night off; it’s time to get busy. I look back at my phone, its midnight and I can now hear the gunshots: pop, pop ... pop, pop, pop.

On any other night, the sound of gunshots breaking the air would cause me concern. Tonight is different:

The trucks were chained together, and to my truck, right outside my room as I settled in for a nap.

46 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Happy New Year. 2014 went fast, not a bad year. I think to myself, this is the first New Year’s Eve since I married Debbie I have not spent it with her. I’m more than 1,000 miles from home at a trucking company in northern Pennsylvania dressed in full camo and it’s colder than ... well, it’s cold. I’ve been awake for 18 hours; if everything goes off as planned, it’s going to be a long night.

The Job The skills of repossessing automobiles compared to the repossession of commercial trucks and equipment is completely different. Just as most automobile repossessors could handsdown produce better results than me when repossessing a car, there’s not a repossessor in the country who is as experienced as I am locating and repossessing commercial accounts. I wouldn’t say it if it wasn’t true.

After the client declined my quote on a previous job in North Dakota, he called again and wanted me to do this different job in Pennsylvania.

“Five trucks,” he said.

The small town in Pennsylvania wasn’t very far from where I was born in Uniontown (about 50 miles southeast of Pittsburgh). The client sent over all the paperwork, contracts, security agreements and GPS locations of the equipment. (OK, I can hear your thoughts right now: GPS means EASY. Well, GPS simply lets you know where the truck is. I agree there is definitely an advantage to GPS tracking devices hidden on the collateral, but the asset must still be peacefully repossessed.)

I studied all the information, said I would take the job and would assemble a team for the recovery. I asked the client where he wanted the trucks

Number 177 on Reader Card

Number 215 on Reader Card Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 47

Driving the five trucks to Ohio was four days traveling on treacherous roads.

delivered. I was surprised when he said Solon, Ohio, which is 300 miles from the point of recovery in Blossburg, Pa. And there will be five trucks.

Unlike many companies, when the client has a need for a service, I’ll find a way to accommodate them. The less time a client spends solving his problem, the more of an opportunity it is for me. At least that’s the way I see it.

When my phone rings, most often it is someone with a problem and they’re looking for a solution. I am going to do my best to accept the responsibility of solving their problem. The caller knows it is going to cost, and because they called me, they know it is going to be expensive. In return, the client’s problem is solved without litigation, injury or death.

Repo Begins At 12:30 a.m., the temperature is about seven degrees, but I’m comfortable ... well I’m not freezing to death anyway. It’s go time.

Four of the five trucks are 2014 Kenworth T-800s and the fifth is a Peterbilt 367. All five have special vacuum bodies sitting on three drive axles. This style truck is used in the oil fields to suck up wastewater and oil; they have a value of about $450,000 each. Two of the T-800s and the Peter48 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

bilt are parked about 150’ behind me at the tree line. I’m alone and I have to have these three out of here by sun-up.

Normally at least two experienced commercial repossessors would be with me. This morning I don’t have the luxury of helpers. My normal crew has taken some well-deserved days off for the holidays. I will however have the assistance of a seasoned CDL driver I have known for almost 40 years. He will be here in about 12 hours. My task is to repossess these three vacuum trucks without being seen and get the heck out of here.

My work truck is parked 50 yards down the road, off to the side and safe.

As I approach the first of the two Kenworths, it is clear they have not been run for a while. There is snow on the ground from the past few days. I can see my tracks from the garage doors to where I am standing now that someone could notice; I better get busy.

A 2014 Kenworth T-800 is a great work truck, but the easiest to break into and even easier to pick the ignition. In the newer models, the interior cab lights turn themselves on when the door opens. There is no way around it.

It sucks at night because for about 15 seconds it makes you feel like you’re on TV. Within about a minute I’m in the cab and turning the ignition ... the

big diesel engine starts right up. In about 15 seconds the interior cab light turns itself out. With one eye on the air pressure gauge and the other looking over the parking lot, I patiently wait for the air pressure to build enough to release the brakes. After about a minute, I release the brakes and I roll off of the property; 100’ down the road I turn on the headlights. The roads are empty and its beginning to snow.

In a multi-unit repossession, the objective is to remove the assets from the location and transport to a safe location. In a larger city, I would have rented a space in advance. In a small town, you just cannot risk someone finding out you’re there to repossess someone’s livelihood. In a small town setting, somebody knows everybody or everybody knows somebody.

I chose my hotel based on the proximity to the area. Before I left Florida, I looked at satellite photos of a few different hotels. The one I chose has a parking area behind the main building. It is about five miles from the location of the repossession. The parking area behind the hotel cannot be seen from any of the streets passing the hotel. The last thing I need is some Joe passing a Holiday Inn Express and wondering why the truck he drives for work six days a week is in a hotel parking lot.

As I park the first truck behind the hotel, I take the 5’ chain out of my bag and wrap it around the steering wheel and the doorframe. The padlock I use is the biggest one Master Lock makes.

(Some years ago when I returned with a third truck on a repo in Miami, Fla., the first and second trucks were gone.

The debtor had seen the trucks from the street and was taking them back as quick as I was repossessing them. This will never happen again.)

In front of the hotel, a taxi is waiting for me. The driver asks me a couple questions during the ride, I’m careful with what I say because it’s a small town. I might have just repossessed his sister’s husband’s brother’s boss’s truck. He drops me off at my pick-up truck and I wait for his taillights to disappear before I begin walk-

continue to page 50

Texas Towing Co. Accused of Kickbacks A local TV station in Lubbock, Texas, said it launched an investigation into the towing practices of West Texas Lender Support in 2013.

The investigation started with the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration where it found more than 3,500 pages of complaints, investigations, emails and sanctions against WTLS. Many of those complaints were generated after the station broadcast a story on the company.

After going through TDLR’s file, they also found the allegation of illegal kickbacks being offered to business owners for cars towed from their properties.

A TDLR investigator questioned the owner of WTLS, Randall Hurst, about the alleged kickbacks.

Hurst told the investigator, according to the state documents, that he fired employee Andrew Salinas when he learned about the kickback scheme.

The TV station went to Austin to speak with Susan Stanford, spokesperson for the TDLR. “Primarily, tow companies are compliant; they work with us,” Stanford said. “They are proud of their industry and they want to have a good reputation. We do have the odd company that we receive many complaints about. [WTLS], he’s not the norm, but he’s also not abnormal.”

Stanford confirmed that Hurst has reached a settlement with the TDLR for other violations during towing and the impoundment process.

Source: www.kcbd.com.

mance, as well as industry and community leadership.

McCandless started at his father’s International Truck dealership in Las Vegas in 1972. By holding positions in almost every department of the dealership, McCandless had the opportunity to learn the business from the ground up.

“My father showed me that this business is about taking care of customers, being involved in the community, and developing good working relationships with employees and suppliers,” said McCandless.

Source: www.internationaltrucks.com.

McCandless Truck Dealer of the Year International Trucks named Scott McCandless, president of Aurora, Colo.-based McCandless Truck Center, its 2015 Truck Dealer of the Year.

The national award focuses on excellence in dealership perforWork the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

Number 112 on Reader Card

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 49

REPO RUN continued from page 48 ing to repossess truck No. 2.

There seems to be more traffic on the road than normal. I look at my phone and it’s 1:30 a.m. These must be the partygoers on their way home. As each car passes, I maneuver towards the trees and stop. My full camo gear helps me blend in. Within 15 minutes, I’m in the second T-800 releasing the brakes and pulling out onto the road; this time I turn on the lights before I enter the roadway.

Back at the hotel, I park No. 2 directly in front of No. 1, nose to nose.

This time I wrap a second chain around the bumpers joining the two with a Master Lock.

I use a different taxi company this time and I have to wait about 45 minutes. The driver explains the obvious on our way to my pick-up truck. Some drunk puked in his car, and he had to clean up the mess. I had already guessed what had happened … I was glad when he dropped me off.

The third truck, the Peterbilt, was

still there waiting for me. It was about 4 a.m. and not a soul in sight. The door on the third truck was unlocked and entry could not have been easier. The ignition was easy-peasy and the Peterbilt started right up, but this time as soon as the air pressure reached 60 lbs., every outside light on the truck turned on automatically. Note to self: Try to remember this new “safety feature.”

I can now hear the gunshots: pop, pop ... pop, pop, pop.

I arrived at the parking area behind my hotel at about 5 a.m. as the sun was beginning to rise. The taxi waiting in the front of the hotel was the same guy who took me on the first trip. I could tell he wanted to know

Number 123 on Reader Card

50 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

what the heck I was doing. He didn’t ask, and I didn’t tell. The cabbie took me back to my pick-up truck and I was back at the hotel by 6 a.m.

Changing Gears So far this job went just as planned.

I had been awake for about 24 hours and my brain, and body, needed some rest. First, I made sure that the three trucks would not move. Not only did I chain all three front bumpers together, I chained the steering wheels to the door handles and I chained my pickup truck to the front bumpers as well.

Time for about four hours of rest; it was 7:30 a.m. by then. I placed the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door for the maid. The year started off very nicely, I thought, as I drifted off to sleep.

The banging on the hotel door woke me up abruptly and I heard someone on the other side call my name.

“Wake up,” he yelled.

Brian and I go back about 40 years

Number 106 on Reader Card

Number 110 on Reader Card Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 51

around when we worked at a tow company together in Cleveland, Ohio.

We were both single so we spent a fair amount of time drinking beer at some of the local bars and we probably raised a little hell. (OK, we drank lots of beer and were thrown out of a few establishments.) Now at 59 and 60 years old, we’ve kind of settled down a bit.

One thing is for sure, I don’t think I trust anyone as well as I trust Brian to help recover the remaining two trucks and deliver all five to Ohio. He has logged many millions of miles over the years and has operated big rigs in all kinds of weather. I opened the door and he handed me a fresh cup of coffee.

“Lets get busy,” Brian said. “Where are the other two trucks?”

In the repossession business, a good agent knows when to change gears. I decided it was time to demand the remaining two trucks from the debtor.

Brian and I pulled into the yard and I introduced myself and explained

why I was there to the operations manager, Don. He was a big guy; in fact he looked and sounded just like the actor John Goodman. Brian and I would later laugh at the uncanny resemblance. Don turned out to be one of the most easy-going guys I have ever met.

“I can have the other two here for you in three days,” Don said. “They’re working out of town.”

“Can $500 get them here tomorrow?” I asked.

“I can make that happen,” Don smiled. Don made good on his promise, and so did I. Brian and I spent the next four days delivering the five trucks to Ohio.

It snowed the entire time and some of the roads were treacherous. Even though the weather was horrible and the roads were wet and dangerous, the delivery went as planned. I parted ways with my old friend after a celebratory steak dinner and a beer (just one).

Of course the client hit the roof

after hearing what the fees were. Not once did he tell me we did a nice job.

The fact is we performed a safe, litigation-free recovery. Nothing broken, no one was hurt, no surprises. I am sure the client will be upset until he needs another big problem solved. Then he will like me again.

I headed south to warmer weather and looked forward to seeing my wife for the first time in 2015. This trip was eight-days deep so far and home was sounding real good … then the phone rang.

“Can you pick up a 34-foot Yellowfin fishing boat in Jacksonville on your way south,” another client asked.

You bet.

Author Mark Lacek is a 30+ year recovery industry veteran and former editor of Professional Repossessor magazine.

Mark@commercialassetsolutions.com

Gunmen Target Houston Tower

Number 145 on Reader Card

52 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Robert Solis, a wrecker driver with Parking & Towing Experts in Houston, Texas, said he was towing an illegally parked SUV from the Haverstock Hills Apartments on Feb. 4 when a group of men started shooting at him and his partner.

“There was nothing we could do, we just ... jumped out through the driver’s side and ducked for cover,” Solis said.

According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the tow truck was hit six or seven times. However, neither Solis nor his partner was hit.

Authorities said that whoever the gunmen were, they had no connection to the SUV being towed. The SUV was released to its owner when he arrived back at the apartment complex.

“It’s a dangerous job, but someone’s got to do it,” said Solis.

No arrests had been made at press time. Source: www.click2houston.com

Burdine Wins NASCAR Lifetime Award Ken Burdine of Miller Industries was recently awarded the Jim Bockoven NASCAR Track Services Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual NASCAR Track Services Summit in Daytona Beach, Fla. The Track Services Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes the contributions of an individual made to the improvement of Track Services over the course of a career spanning 10 years or more. Ken has contributed heavily across the country with training, innovation and a helping hand individually and with Miller.

Source: www.NASCAR.com.

Competitors Partner to Clear Pileup Two of the main highway authorized tow truck companies in Bronx, N.Y., Autorama and Universe, found themselves working together recently to clear away a huge pileup on the icy Cross Bronx Expressway.

“We had one jack-knifed tractor-trailer, 20 cars there on the southbound side,” said Victor Gonzales, who works as a tow truck operator with Autorama. “One guy spun out and then it started like dominos behind it.”

“There are cars we don’t even know who it belongs to because the owner is in the hospital,” said Hector Maldonado, another Autorama tow truck operator.

Source: http://pix11.com.

Number 158 on Reader Card Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

Number 161 on Reader Card

Number 116 on Reader Card

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 53

Number 136 on Reader Card

‘Boomerang’ Recovery

The team from Remorquage Meteor in Montreal was called out to a theme park for a stuck (unoccupied) roller coaster ride. The team used a series of snatch blocks to help the cars slowly descend.

2014 Donnie Cruse Recovery Award for Medium Duty

*The Donnie Cruse Recovery Award is presented by American Towman Magazine and WreckMaster.

The Donnie* is co-sponsored by B/A Products and AW Direct.

Terry Humelsine presents the 2014 Donnie Cruse Recovery Award for Medium Duty to Serge Landry of Remorquage Meteor; Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

by Team WreckMaster

T

his recovery happened on May 11, 2014, at the Six Flags La Ronde amusement park in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Towing service Remorquage Meteor received the call at approximately 1 p.m., informing them that there was a problem with one of the rides. They requested a qualified recovery operator

56 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

considering the unique problem with the ride.

This roller coaster is called Boomerang and as part of the annual testing before opening day, every ride is put through a series of unoccupied tests. The Boomerang is designed to utilize gravity to propel the cars through a series of loops. The cars are

pulled up to the top of a steep incline before being released. Gravity sends the cars down the incline and through the figure-eight loops reaching almost 50 mph. Once they reach the top of the other side, the cars stop and the ride operator releases the cars through the ride backwards before coming to rest where the ride started.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 57

During this test, the ride operator accidently engaged the brake slightly when he released the cars for the return trip. This reduced the speed, preventing the cars from completing the full revolution. They stopped in perfect balance at the top of the loop. (What’s the chance of that?!)

The recovery crew was faced with a difficult challenge.

With no way to push the cars through the balance point of the loop, they developed a plan to install two independent winch lines and a combination of snatch blocks.

They determined that the total weight of the cars was 13,800 lbs. and considering that they were dealing with rolling resistance and a combination of gradient resistance, they decided to rig for the total weight.

One line would be used to pull the cars down the rails and past the balance point and the other line would be used to control the cars descent.

As the cars moved further through the loop, they had to install additional snatch blocks at elevated angles in order to maintain control.

They had received prior approval from the park’s engineers to secure the cars to the track. This allowed them to release the line and install additional snatch blocks.

Training side note: The term snatch block comes from its ability to snatch a live or loaded line. In this situation, the operator was able to install additional snatch blocks without having to disconnect his winch line.

Snatch blocks were placed at 9 o’clock, 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock to bring the cars down.

58 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

The company’s NRC CS40 had two lines rigged to complete the recovery.

The ride operator accidently engaged the brake slightly when he released the cars.

The recovery was performed in three stages with snatch blocks installed at 9 o’clock, 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock.

Their Kenworth W900/NRC CS40 was placed on level ground and both lines were used to complete the recovery.

The final stage of the recovery was to control the descent to the bottom of the loop where the ride’s chain mechanism could return it to the first stage.

The total amount of time to install the rigging was about 90 minutes and the full descent took another 2 hours.

This recovery was selected because of its unique circumstances and out-ofthe-box thinking.

How Do I Win a Donnie?

Submit one of your recoveries to win a Donnie Award! You don't have to be WreckMaster certified to qualify. Simply send in your photos or video and a brief recap of your light-, medium- or heavy-duty recovery from 2001-'15.

You may be contacted for additional recovery details.

Include your name, title, company, mailing address, email address and phone number. Mail to: American Towman c/o Donnie Awards, 7 West St., Warwick, NY 10990.

Note: Applicant agrees to give American Towman exclusive editorial rights on submitted material, text and photographs, for one full year.

Number 155 on Reader Card

Number 192 on Reader Card Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 59

One tower displayed his fondness for the American Towman Expo “Monster Show” at January’s SSTA training in Florida.

Miller Industries photo.

SSTA Heavy-Duty Recovery Training

Number 100 on Reader Card

Find towing news each week at towindustryweek.com

The Sunshine State Towing Association recently held a three-day heavy-duty recovery training in Tampa, Fla. Conducted by Tom Luciano and John Hawkins of Miller Industries, the training focused on best practices of recovery along with rigging techniques. Also leading the training were Sean Loscalzo of A-Superior Towing and Darrell Johnson of Johnson’s Towing. Howard “Scooby” Eagan from MatJack led a portion of the training on aircushion usage.

While the training is a required certification class for certain contracts in the state of Florida, an attendance of 40-plus towing professionals came from as far away as Vermont to participate in the training that took place at a Co-Part auto yard. Instrumental in putting together the training was Crouch’s Wrecker & Equipment Sales of Florida.

Number 128 on Reader Card

60 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Drake Tow Services Manager at ADD Auto Data Direct has appointed Tom Drake as its national Towing Services Manager. Drake joined Florida-based ADD in 2008 to assist in expanding its service into Texas and throughout the nation.

As Towing Services Manager, Drake will oversee ADD services specifically designed for tow and wrecker operators, working with companies, tow associations, state regulatory agencies, and county governments to develop industry solutions unique to their jurisdiction.

“Tom is a vitally important part of the ADD team,” said Jim Taylor, president. “Under his leadership our tow services have grown significantly and while the majority of our tow and wrecker operator customers are based in Florida and Texas, we now have members of that industry using our services nationwide.”

Source: www.prnewswire.com

ing its legality, said the winning bidder would pay the city for the privilege of being the sole-source provider for the city’s towing needs.

Provisions in the request for proposal, Brook said, would require any successful bidder to have a location within Muskogee’s municipal boundaries and have the equipment and manpower to meet the city’s needs.

Dale Ford, owner of Ford’s Auto Servicing & Towing, said there are other ways to ensure that wreckers respond to the city’s needs in a timely manner. He said poor performers could be penalized

by removing or suspending them from the rotation schedule currently in use.

Goad said smaller operators would take a hit from a provision that would allow them to subcontract towing services that require the largest trucks available. The provision was intended to level the playing field for some of the smaller wrecker companies, but Goad said that would cut into profits.

Goad urged city councilors to reject any proposals that might come in, “start over, and do it right.”

Source: muskogeephoenix.com.

Companies Question City’s RFP Decision Two Muskogee, Okla., wrecker company owners urged city councilors to reconsider their decision to award a contract to a single provider for the privilege of towing impounded or abandoned vehicles.

In January, city councilors approved a plan to solicit proposals from wrecker companies that want to provide that service on the promise it would provide a new revenue stream. But the two men who showed recently to protest the decision said the move could put six to eight local wrecker companies out of business.

“We will lose anywhere from 30 (percent) to 40 percent of our income from this,” said Steve Goad, owner of APlus Towing & Recovery. “I know you have been told that we get about $6,000 a year off this ... rotation, (but) that is not true: It is a lot more than that.”

Assistant City Attorney Rodney Brook described the arrangement during earlier meetings as something akin to a “franchising operation.” Brook, who was assigned the task of determinWork the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

Number 169 on Reader Card

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 61

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631-531-0673 For info please call Craig R. Nadolny “CALL FOR DETAILS” on all units

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62 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

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robertyoungtrucks.com

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 63

Beauty Is ‘The Beast’ in Dallas

by Jim “Buck” Sorrenti

J

DB Towing, dba Beard's Towing, based out of the DallasFort Worth metro area in Texas, has been a family owned and operated business since 1954. James Bennett Jr., a second-generation tower, owns the business. James is a Texas Towing and Storage Association Level I and Level II Master Tower and has been an instructor working with Tom Luciano for Miller Industries’ HeavyDuty Rotator School for three years.

Beard’s offers light-, mediumand heavy-duty towing and recovery, roadside assistance, motorcycle towing, road service, winch outs, incident management accident recovery and licensed Hazmat complete cleanup services.

Awesome hood graphic of ‘The Beast’ has its eye on you.

The Beast hauling out the trash.

64 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

James, a proud father, poses with his daughter, son and The Beast…his newest baby.

“We handle everything and have many commercial accounts as well as exclusive contracts with five cities,” Bennett said. “In addition, we offer heavy-duty towing all across the United States with a tractor and 53' flatbed, 50-ton Landoll trailer. We also offer light-duty all across the state of Texas, with Dallas-Fort Worth being our primary area of towing.”

Tech Highlights Chassis: 2009 Peterbilt 379.

Wrecker: 2014 Century 1075S rotator.

Engine: 550 CAT. Trans: Eaton Fuller 18-speed.

Winches: Dual 60,000-lbs. planetary; 50,000-lb. planetary two-speed drag.

Builder: Miller.

Graphics: Artworks Commercial Graphics Inc.

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All of their uniformed drivers are TDLR licensed and certified professional towers with more than 80 years of combined towing experience.

Beard’s has a well-maintained upto-date fleet of 16 trucks with the latest tow equipment in the industry, including the beauty, err “Beast,” featured here. The Beast is a 2009 Peterbilt 379 with a 2014 Century 1075S 75-ton rotator on the business end. A 550 CAT engine mated to an Eaton Fuller 18speed transmission powers The Beast.

It has dual 60,000-lbs. planetary winches and a 50,000-lbs. planetary two-speed drag winch. It has a threestage boom and is equipped with a hydraulic stabilization system that includes front hydraulic outriggers with over 17’ of spread and rear patented outriggers designed for stability in lifting as well as anchoring the unit when doing recoveries.

Miller built the unit and it is fully decked out for heavy recovery with strap kit, chains, snatch blocks, shack-

les and long and short Miller spreader bars.

Joseph Price of Artworks Commercial Graphics in Dallas did the striking graphic wrap depicting a green scaly monster resting beneath the truck’s skin.

“Joseph is a good friend who does great work. He has done the graphics on all of my trucks,” Bennett said.

“We’ve done quite a few jobs with The Beast. Since we’ve put it on the road, we’ve lifted an 86,000-pound tanker loaded with diesel, 46,000pound steel coils and numerous generators to name a few.

“We keep it busy. It’s too expensive a billboard to keep sitting in the shop.”

Editor’s Note Jim “Buck” Sorrenti, a longtime editor of American Towman, has been our field editor for the past few years. He is a freelance writer and photographer with more than 40 years of experience covering motorcycle, hot rod, truck and towing culture.

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • 65

The Value of News to the Boss

by Steve Calitri

T

he news of the day means different things to different people, and it’s the same for tow business owners. A news item about a tower who runs afoul of the law for automobile theft sends a message to the public: beware of illicit practices by towers. Tow bosses, on the other hand, will read different messages, ranging from maintain accurate records of all impounded vehicles to hanky panky with the books isn’t worth the risk.

News that a business owner gleans on TowIndustryWeek.com covers a broad spectrum of what’s happening that is pertinent to the towing industry.

Most weeks contain a report of a U.S. town updating its tow rates. Even though the town in the news may be in another state, the savvy tower is comparing that updated rate with the rate paid by his town for police-dispatched tows. It may even trigger a call to action on his part in his dealings with his town.

Indeed, nonconsensual tow rates across the nation are quite disparate. A peek at TIW’s Municipal Rates Chart and its weekly sampling of city rates illustrates this disparity. On the chart for the week I am writing this down, for example, Johnson, R.I. (pop. 28,195), pays $82 for a basic tow, while Mount Vernon, Wash. (pop. 32,287), pays $178.

Two towns approximately the same size are about $100 apart on their tow rates.

This disparity is detected often on TIW’s News Page.

Every trade has its controversies and ongoing issues, as does towing. Keeping abreast of industry news will have an impact on how business owners make short- and long-term decisions.

When TowIndustryWeek.com reported on new developments with private-lot towing this past year, towers

66 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

who do a lot of private-lot tows had to take notice. Some acted upon what they read. Likewise, when news was reported on the upward trend of the repo business, towers thinking about getting into the business now edged much closer to making the leap. On the other hand, those paying attention to RepoTimes.com (a TIW page) are continually made aware of the dangers of repo work. Some have nicknamed that page “The Shooting Gallery.”

News matters. Many thousands of tow bosses first got wind of Bill Johnson being honored as Towman of the Year on Tow Industry Week, and for some it was the first time reading about how Bill has fought back against the insurance companies. Others read about this issue in earlier reports on Tow Industry Week.

This primed them for the full coverage of it in American Towman magazine.

Those who read the news first on TIW were particularly attuned to the AT piece. In subsequent conversations with towers, it was clear to me that this coverage is having an impact on how towers deal with insurance companies on bill collections.

Like American Towman, Tow Industry Week is chock full of original articles covering a broad spectrum of topics critical to running a towing operation.

These articles are invaluable to tow business owners. But beyond these articles is the service TIW performs in selecting news to cover and print, electronically and in AT. Here the readers benefit from American Towman’s years of experience in the towing industry, experience that spans five decades.

Hey, when a tower fights city hall and wins, you want to hear all about it. So have you read the latest?

American Towman Magazine’s April issue brings you The Buyers Report, our annual collection of user’s insights into products and services on the market. AT’s April issue will also cover fourpoint tie-downs with Randall Resch, your tow operators and risk management, and a recovery of a semi from a ditch on a stormy night in Milwaukee, Wis. The Buyers Report has been helpful to tow bosses shopping the market for necessary equipment and also for discovering new products. This is additional to AT’s Road Tools spread and TowIndustryWeek.com’s Product Page, where we keep you informed on new products and services in the towing market.

Tow Industry Week last month covered recovery training with firefighters at the Savatech training center in Daytona, Fla. American Towman TV’s Emily videorecorded the training, interviewed the players and brought our viewers exclusive coverage of this event.

ATTV on Tow Industry Week also covered Vulcan’s new triplewinch wrecker which showed in Baltimore at the American Towman Exposition and aired an exclusive interview with Bill Johnson, AT’s Towman of the Year, who discussed his battles with the insurance companies.

TIW’s diverse coverage of the towing industry swings over to the repossession world. Some call this page the shooting gallery, but in spite of the dangers of repo work, repo activity is up. Check it out at RepoTimes.com.

Ohio Towers Settle Fee Lawsuit Central Ohio’s two largest towing companies have settled a class-action lawsuit that claimed they charged unlawful fees.

Central Ohio drivers whose cars were towed by Shamrock Towing of Westerville or CamCar, located in Columbus, from private zones between September 2008, and July 2014 may be eligible for up to $28.

The towing companies have agreed to pay back a portion of the fees they charged. A judge earlier ruled the so-called administrative fees unlawful. As many as 50,000 people could get partial refunds.

The settlement prohibits the companies from charging the fees in the future unless state law is changed.

Source: wosu.org.

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TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • NORTH 67

Bill Targets Kill-Switch Remotes A bill that would ban kill-switch remote shut-down devices in the state of New Jersey, used by car dealers or loan lenders to enforce on-time payments, was released by the Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee.

The bill targets ”payment assurance devices” that give lenders the ability to locate the car and disable its starter after missed payments, a controversial practice the sponsors called “predatory” and “incredibly unsafe.”

The devices’ are becoming increasingly popular as the subprime auto lending market grows, with lenders requiring the shut-down devices as part of a loan.

They’ve come under fire as well, with critics saying the unregulated use of the devices causes serious safety concerns. In one reported case, a Las Vegas woman’s car was shut down as she was driving on a three-lane interstate highway. Source: www.nj.com.

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NORTH 68 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

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TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • NORTH 69

22

Catch–

If you aren’t a member, consider joining your state and national association and stay united to effect change. Image courtesy of Wellcome Library, London.

by Cynthia Martineau

Associations – Can’t live with ‘em, can’t live without ‘em

NORTH 70 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

H

ave associations outlived their usefulness? Well of course I would say a resounding “No” given my position. I have been in the association “business” since 1999. I have repeatedly seen the positive impact of an association’s efforts combined with the support if its members.

Associations must evolve in order to remain effective and relevant. They must be attuned to the needs of their members and prospective members and be able to identify with those they represent.

It is imperative that we all find ways to identify with and engage the next generation of towers. This task can be a difficult one when most associations are run by volunteers with a desire to give back to the industry, but are also stretched thin by the demands of their own businesses and families.

Very few associations are fortunate enough to have dedicated staff devoted to running the business of the organization. Even then it is difficult to meet the growing day-to-day demands and find the time to develop new programs and initiatives. That is where members and volunteers play such an important role.

Why does the industry need associations? Each state association was formed for a unique purpose. Their goals are related to the region of the country they represent as well as focusing on legislation, education, and member services. Associations are committed to educating government agencies, legislative/regulatory bodies, and the motoring public about our industry. They work effectively with informed legislators to encourage the passage or opposition of legislation that impacts our business.

Who would do this great work if there were no associations? I find it highly unlikely that legislators or legislative bodies would rally behind a towing industry cause without a united voice on a state and national level.

Why should you join your state and national associations? Each company has a different reason for belonging to an association. Some simply believe in supporting the industry; they rarely participate or attend meetings and are content to receive basic member benefits. Others join because they have an issue and need assistance resolving a problem. Another percentage join their association when there is a potential threat to the industry and they want to make sure that their opinion is considered. A dedicated handful get NORTH 72 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

For the industry to move important items forward—like ‘Move Over’—in legislation and the public eye, working through associations are essential to the effort.

involved, run for board positions, volunteer for committees, and add their expertise to the success of the organization. Ultimately, each member contributes in their own important way.

Don’t rely on the few to do the work of many.

The role of the Towing and Recovery Association of America is to represent the interests of its members, the towing industry as a whole, assist state towing associations and provide educational and legislative support.

Over the years, TRAA has made many insightful accomplishments and great strides improving the professionalism of our industry. But we, too, must evolve to continue to serve our goals and purpose.

Today TRAA is working to rekindle and develop better relationships with state associations. We are improving our communication and really listening in an effort to identify the greatest needs within our industry.

One recent response has been the formation of the Motor Club Communication Committee. This energetic

committee has gone full steam ahead meeting with major motor clubs to discuss issues that impact towers and affect the motor clubs’ customers, as well as the motoring public. Communication and understanding is the key to any successful relationship.

Another effort will be a state towing association forum hosted by TRAA in April to identify common goals, discuss mutual issues and share experiences.

It is easy to think that one person can’t make a difference or that your membership doesn’t really matter— but it does! Without members and dedicated volunteers, associations will cease to exist and the voice of the towing industry would be silenced. We must all stand shoulder to shoulder, lifting each other up for the benefit of our industry.

If you aren’t a member, I challenge you to join your state and national association today and do your part.

Don’t rely on the few to do the work of many.

United we stand, divided we fall.

About the author Cynthia J. Martineau is the executive director of the Towing and Recovery Association of America Inc.

Copyright 2015 American Towman Magazine. Characters and stories are fictitious; no resemblance to real life characters is intended.

Send your thoughts/suggestions on the Adventures to scalitri@towman.com or American Towman, 7 West St, Warwick NY 10990

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TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • SOUTH 67

Towers Collaborate through Hardship

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SOUTH 68 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

By Kristen Scheuing In an industry that can be cutthroat when it comes to calls, two Chattanooga tow companies have been engaged in a friendly competition/collaboration for decades. Last April, Bill Peterson, owner of Expressway Towing, had a heart attack on the job and was soon out of commission during a three-month recuperation.

As soon as surgery was scheduled, Bill’s wife, Susie, called Scott Summey, owner of Summey’s Towing and Recovery. The two companies help each other out when they get more than they can handle.

“If we couldn’t take a call, Scott would take it, and we’d take any calls he couldn’t take,” said Susie.

She said the Expressway/Summey partnership stretched back to when Scott was first getting into towing and Bill helped Scott get his business off the ground. Later, Scott loaned a truck to Bill when the engine on one of Expressway’s two trucks “blew up.”

When Bill was out after his heart attack, Expressway was down to one driver, with Susie handling the paperwork and the couple’s son dispatching.

Expressway began to lean more on Summey’s to help them handle the calls. Bill said Summey saved his business.

“If it weren’t for him, we wouldn’t have made it,” said Bill.

Scott didn’t think twice about stepping in while Bill was recuperating.

“Bill has helped a lot of people,” he said. “He thinks more about other people than he does himself.”

Bill said, the business side of towing has become very challenging, with the cost of insurance and equipment far outpacing the service rates.

“People want to pay what they did more than 30 years ago. You can’t run this business on peanuts,” Bill said.

The Expressway family has officially grown, as it has moved toward a more formal relationship with Summey’s since Bill’s return to work.

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TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • SOUTH 69

Ohio Towers Settle Fee Lawsuit Central Ohio’s two largest towing companies have settled a class-action lawsuit that claimed they charged unlawful fees.

Central Ohio drivers whose cars were towed by Shamrock Towing of Westerville or CamCar, located in Columbus, from private zones between September 2008, and July 2014 may be eligible for up to $28.

The towing companies have agreed to pay back a portion of the fees they charged. A judge earlier ruled the so-called administrative fees unlawful. As many as 50,000 people could get partial refunds.

The settlement prohibits the companies from charging the fees in the future unless state law is changed.

Source: wosu.org

Illegal Towing, Crushing Number 180 on Reader Card

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SOUTH 70 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

A business owner who towed cars without a license was sentenced to 60 days in jail, followed by three years of probation for his role in connection with what police have called a large-scale auto theft and car-crushing enterprise.

Daniel A. Poitras, who owned Car Guys of Portland, Ore., had no towing license, although he told police he towed three cars a week to West Coast Car Crushing in north Portland. He also had no state dismantler’s license, although he was removing parts, such as batteries and catalytic converters, from vehicles.

West Coast Car Crushing has since been shut down.

Poitras said in court that he had a business license, and didn’t think he needed a dismantler’s license to remove car batteries or catalytic converters. He thought the dismantler’s license was just for “major components,’’ he told the judge.

His driver ’s license will be revoked for one year and he must pay a total of $2,325 in restitution to three victims.

Source: www.oregonlive.com.

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TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • MIDWEST 67

Illegal Towing, Crushing A business owner who towed cars without a license was sentenced to 60 days in jail, followed by three years of probation for his role in connection with what police have called a large-scale auto theft and car-crushing enterprise.

Daniel A. Poitras, who owned Car Guys of Portland, Ore., had no towing license, although he told police he towed three cars a week to West Coast Car Crushing in north Portland. He also had no state dismantler’s license, although he was removing parts, such as batteries and catalytic converters, from vehicles.

West Coast Car Crushing has since been shut down.

Poitras said in court that he had a business license, and didn’t think he needed a dismantler ’s license to remove car batteries or catalytic converters. He thought the dismantler’s license was just for “major components,’’ he told the judge.

His driver’s license will be revoked for one year and he must pay a total of $2,325 in restitution to three victims.

Source: www.oregonlive.comSource: wosu.org88.

critics saying the unregulated use of the devices causes serious safety concerns. In one reported case, a Las Vegas woman’s car was shut down as she was driving on a three-lane interstate highway. Source: www.nj.com.

Bill Targets Kill-Switch Remotes A bill that would ban kill-switch remote shut-down devices in the state of New Jersey, used by car dealers or loan lenders to enforce on-time payments, was released by the Assembly Consumer Affairs Committee.

The bill targets ”payment assurance devices” that give lenders the ability to locate the car and disable its starter after missed payments, a controversial practice the sponsors called “predatory” and “incredibly unsafe.”

The devices’ are becoming increasingly popular as the subprime auto lending market grows, with lenders requiring the shut-down devices as part of a loan.

They’ve come under fire as well, with

Ohio Towers Settle Fee Lawsuit Central Ohio’s two largest towing companies have settled a class-action lawsuit that claimed they charged unlawful fees.

Central Ohio drivers whose cars were towed by Shamrock Towing of Westerville or CamCar, located in Columbus, from private zones between September 2008, and July 2014 may be eligible for up to $28.

The towing companies have agreed to pay back a portion of the fees they charged. A judge earlier ruled the so-called administrative fees unlawful.

As many as 50,000 people could get partial refunds.

The settlement prohibits the companies from charging the fees in the future unless state law is changed.

County Seeks Missing Tow Fees

Number 134 on Reader Card

MIDWEST 68 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

An internal audit is underway in a northern Illinois county into almost $11,000 that’s unaccounted for from a sheriff’s department towing fund.

The Ogle County Sheriff’s Department expects the audit to take a couple of months, according to a report.

The investigation began after a forensic auditor could not account for the money in the county’s administrative tow fund. The fund was controlled by exSheriff Michael Harn.

An ordinance allows the sheriff’s department to charge $350 when it has vehicles towed.

The forensic audit also found that about $61,000 in fees were not deposited in the county’s general fund as required.

Brian VanVickle was sworn in as sheriff on Dec. 1. He said files were gone from computers that the former sheriff and his executive assistant had used.

Source: www.bnd.com.

Towers Collaborate through Hardship

By Kristen Scheuing In an industry that can be cutthroat when it comes to calls, two Chattanooga tow companies have been engaged in a friendly competition/collaboration for decades. Last April, Bill Peterson, owner of Expressway Towing, had a heart attack on the job and was soon out of commission during a three-month recuperation.

As soon as surgery was scheduled, Bill’s wife, Susie, called Scott Summey, owner of Summey’s Towing and Recovery. The two companies help each other out when they get more than they can handle.

“If we couldn’t take a call, Scott would take it, and we’d take any calls he couldn’t take,” said Susie.

She said the Expressway/Summey partnership stretched back to when Scott was first getting into towing and Bill helped Scott get his business off the ground. Later, Scott loaned a truck to Bill when the engine on one of Expressway’s two trucks “blew up.”

When Bill was out after his heart attack, Expressway was down to one driver, with Susie handling the paperwork and the couple’s son dispatching.

Expressway began to lean more on Summey’s to help them handle the calls. Bill said Summey saved his business.

“If it weren’t for him, we wouldn’t have made it,” said Bill.

Scott didn’t think twice about stepping in while Bill was recuperating.

“Bill has helped a lot of people,” he said. “He thinks more about other people than he does himself.”

Bill said, the business side of towing has become very challenging, with the cost of insurance and equipment far outpacing the service rates.

“People want to pay what they did more than 30 years ago. You can’t run this business on peanuts,” Bill said.

The Expressway family has officially grown, as it has moved toward a more formal relationship with Summey’s since Bill’s return to work.

Number 193 on Reader Card

Number 119 on Reader Card Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • MIDWEST 69

22

Catch–

If you aren’t a member, consider joining your state and national association and stay united to effect change. Image courtesy of Wellcome Library, London.

Associations – Can’t live with ‘em, can’t live without ‘em

MIDWEST 70 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

by Cynthia Martineau

H

ave associations outlived their usefulness? Well of course I would say a resounding “No” given my position. I have been in the association “business” since 1999. I have repeatedly seen the positive impact of an association’s efforts combined with the support if its members.

Associations must evolve in order to remain effective and relevant. They must be attuned to the needs of their members and prospective members and be able to identify with those they represent.

It is imperative that we all find ways to identify with and engage the next generation of towers. This task can be a difficult one when most associations are run by volunteers with a desire to give back to the industry, but are also stretched thin by the demands of their own businesses and families.

Very few associations are fortunate enough to have dedicated staff devoted to running the business of the organization. Even then it is difficult to meet the growing day-to-day demands and find the time to develop new programs and initiatives. That is where members and volunteers play such an important role.

Why does the industry need associations? Each state association was formed for a unique purpose. Their goals are related to the region of the country they represent as well as focusing on legislation, education, and member services. Associations are committed to educating government agencies, legislative/regulatory bodies, and the motoring public about our industry. They work effectively with informed legislators to encourage the passage or opposition of legislation that impacts our business.

Who would do this great work if there were no associations? I find it highly unlikely that legislators or legislative bodies would rally behind a towing industry cause without a united voice on a state and national level.

Why should you join your state and national associations? Each company has a different reason for belonging to an association. Some simply believe in supporting the industry; they rarely participate or attend meetings and are content to receive basic member benefits. Others join because they have an issue and need assistance resolving a problem. Another percentage join their association when there is a potential threat to the industry and they want to make sure that their opinion is considered. A dedicated handful get

For the industry to move important items forward—like ‘Move Over’—in legislation and the public eye, working through associations are essential to the effort.

involved, run for board positions, volunteer for committees, and add their expertise to the success of the organization. Ultimately, each member contributes in their own important way.

Don’t rely on the few to do the work of many.

The role of the Towing and Recovery Association of America is to represent the interests of its members, the towing industry as a whole, assist state towing associations and provide educational and legislative support.

Over the years, TRAA has made many insightful accomplishments and great strides improving the professionalism of our industry. But we, too, must evolve to continue to serve our goals and purpose.

Today TRAA is working to rekindle and develop better relationships with state associations. We are improving our communication and really listening in an effort to identify the greatest needs within our industry.

One recent response has been the formation of the Motor Club Communication Committee. This energetic

MIDWEST 72 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

committee has gone full steam ahead meeting with major motor clubs to discuss issues that impact towers and affect the motor clubs’ customers, as well as the motoring public. Communication and understanding is the key to any successful relationship.

Another effort will be a state towing association forum hosted by TRAA in April to identify common goals, discuss mutual issues and share experiences.

It is easy to think that one person can’t make a difference or that your membership doesn’t really matter— but it does! Without members and dedicated volunteers, associations will cease to exist and the voice of the towing industry would be silenced. We must all stand shoulder to shoulder, lifting each other up for the benefit of our industry.

If you aren’t a member, I challenge you to join your state and national association today and do your part.

Don’t rely on the few to do the work of many.

United we stand, divided we fall.

About the author Cynthia J. Martineau is the executive director of the Towing and Recovery Association of America Inc.

Number 208 on Reader Card

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TOWMAN.COM - March 2015 • WEST 67

22

Catch–

Associations – Can’t live with ‘em, can’t live without ‘em

by Cynthia Martineau

H

ave associations outlived their usefulness? Well of course I would say a resounding “No” given my position. I have been in the association “business” since 1999. I have repeatedly seen the positive impact of an association’s efforts combined with the support if its members.

If you aren’t a member, consider joining your state and national association and stay united to effect change. Image courtesy of Wellcome Library, London.

WEST 68 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Number 188 on Reader Card

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WEST 70 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Associations must evolve in order to remain effective and relevant. They must be attuned to the needs of their members and prospective members and be able to identify with those they represent.

It is imperative that we all find ways to identify with and engage the next generation of towers. This task can be a difficult one when most associations are run by volunteers with a desire to give back to the industry, but are also stretched thin by the demands of their own businesses and families. Very few associations are fortunate enough to have dedicated staff devoted to running the business of the organization. Even then it is difficult to meet the growing day-today demands and find the time to develop new programs and initiatives. That is where members and volunteers play such an important role.

Why does the industry need associations? Each state association was formed for a unique purpose. Their goals are related to the region of the country they represent as well as focusing on legislation, education, and member services. Associations are committed to educating government agencies, legislative/regulatory bodies, and the motoring public about our industry. They work effectively with informed legislators to encourage the passage or opposition of legislation that impacts our business.

Who would do this great work if there were no associations? I find it highly unlikely that legislators or legislative bodies would rally behind a towing industry cause without a united voice on a state and national level.

Why should you join your state and national associations? Each company has a different reason for belonging to an association. Some simply believe in supporting the industry; they rarely participate or attend meetings and are content to receive basic member benefits. Others join because they have an issue and need assistance resolving a problem.

Another percentage join their association when there is a potential threat to the industry and they want to make sure that their opinion is considered. A dedicated handful get involved, run

Number 157 on Reader Card

Number 156 on Reader Card

for board positions, volunteer for committees, and add their expertise to the success of the organization. Ultimately, each member contributes in their own important way.

The role of the Towing and Recovery Association of America is to represent the interests of its members, the towing industry as a whole, assist state towing associations and provide educational and legislative support. Over the years, TRAA has made many insightful accomplishments and great strides improving the professionalism of our industry.

But we, too, must evolve to continue to serve our goals and purpose.

Today TRAA is working to rekindle and develop better relationships with state associations. We are improving our communication and really listening in an effort to identify the greatest needs within our industry.

One recent response has been the formation of the Motor Club Communication Committee. This energetic committee has gone full steam ahead meeting with major motor clubs to discuss issues that impact towers and affect the motor clubs’ customers, as well as the motoring public. Communication and understanding is the key to any successful relationship.

Another effort will be a state towing association forum hosted by TRAA in April to identify common goals, discuss mutual issues and share experiences.

It is easy to think that one person can’t make a difference or that your membership doesn’t really matter— but it does! Without members and dedicated volunteers, associations will cease to exist and the voice of the towing industry would be silenced.

We must all stand shoulder to shoulder, lifting each other up for the benefit of our industry.

If you aren’t a member, I challenge you to join your state and national association today and do your part. Don’t rely on the few to do the work of many.

United we stand, divided we fall.

About the author Cynthia J. Martineau is the executive director of the Towing and Recovery Association of America Inc.

Number 198 on Reader Card

WEST 72 • March 2015 - TOWMAN.COM

Number 162 on Reader Card

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