Tow Professional - Volume: 12 Issue: 3

Volume 12 • Issue 3 • 2023 www.towprofessional.com

IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS

EXPERT WITNESS:

Do Expert Witnesses Have A Shelf Life?

INSIGHTFUL TALK:

Road Map to Success

FUEL 4 THOUGHT: Largest Tow Show

JUMP PACKS

JUMP STAR+ER CHOOSING A

FOR YOUR TOW OPERATION

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TOW PROFESSIONAL

CONTENTS

Volume 12 • Issue 3 WWW.TOWPROFESSIONAL.COM

IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS

INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

6 | Jerr-Dan

16 | Boxes 4 U

8 | Photo Card Specialist

16 | TowMate

10 | Worldwide Equipment

18 | ATRI

12 | Personalized by Tracy

20 | Online Impound Auction

44 | Traxero

38 | Azuga

AN EXPERT WITNESS

BY

JAMES

E.

LEWIS

22 | Do expert witnesses have a shelf life?

48 | Mobile Video Solutions 52 | Towing Museum Increases Survivor Fund Benefits INSIGHTFUL TALK

BY

DAN

JUMP PACKS

MESSINA

28 | Road Map to Success

FUEL 4 THOUGHT

BY

D.J.

HARRINGTON

54 | Clore

CSP

34 | Largest Tow Show

IN EVERY ISSUE 4 | Publisher’s Letter 59 | Dealers Place 2

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

63 | Market Place 64 | Ad Index

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PUBLISHER’S

LETTER

Volume 12 • Issue 3 WWW.TOWPROFESSIONAL.COM

TM

Professional Your Resource for Towing & Recovery

PUBLISHER Darian Weaver President & Publisher darian@towprofessional.com

PRODUCTION Shirley Ogburn Editor Clint Cabiness Creative Director clint@dialedinmediagroup.com Bogey Cat as Office Manager

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

S

pring into summer, and the show season has begun. We bring you some of the top solutions for your business with every issue. This one is no different, and we hope it is a piece of the puzzle in helping you build and grow your company.

In this issue of Tow Professional, we highlight “Tow Truck Cameras & Mobile Video.” This first quarter of 2023 has moved on at an incredible pace. The supply chain has been a problem throughout 2022 and into 2023. We thank our vendors for their hard work and commitment to getting the best products to our owners!

Clore Manufacturing showcases their line of products, highlighting many options so you can find what’s right for your business.

In this issue we hear from James Lewis, our “Expert Witness,” asking if Expert Witnesses have a shelf life? Dan Messina with his “Insightful Talk,” hits us with business knowledge that you don’t want to miss! Dan takes his insight from building multimillion dollar companies and lays out a Roadmap to Success.

DJ Harrington’s “Fuel for Thought,” celebrates the PWOF Florida Tow Show.

DJ highlights the tremendous crowds, abundance of vendors, international buyers, and great friends that stopped by our booths to visit and thank us for our commitment to the industry. This truly is one of the best shows of the year!

A special thank you to our men and women of towing for your heart of service! Hug your loved ones, be safe, and God Bless our Industry!

Darian Weaver President & Publisher, Tow Professional

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Laura Dolan – Traxero D. J. Harrington CSP James E . Lewis Dan Messina Jeff Pesnell -Traxero Tim Smith – Azuga Peter Stenger – Mobile Video Computing Solutions Darian Weaver

Executive and Advertising Offices 1005 Mountain Trace Birmingham, AL 35242 Toll free: 888-802-8544 Fax: 205-978-1550 www.towprofessional.com Tow Professional is published nine times a year by Over The Mountain Media, Inc., 1005 Mountain Trace, Birmingham, Alabama, 35242, USA. Tow Professional is distributed free to qualified subscribers. Non-qualified subscription rates are $57.00 per year in the U.S. and Canada and $84.00 per year for foreign subscribers (surface mail). U.S. Postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama and additional mailing offices.

Tow Professional is distributed to qualified Towing & Recovery’s Top Decision Makers. Publisher is not liable for all content (including editorial and illustrations provided by advertisers) of advertisements published and does not accept responsibility for any claims made against the publisher. It is the advertiser’s or agency’s responsibility to obtain appropriate releases on any item or individuals pictured in an advertisement.

Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission from the publisher.

For a new free subscription, address changes or corrections, please visit www.towprofessional.com and click on the “subscribe” tab.

INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

Jerr-Dan Announces Inauguration of New Training Facility and Upgrades Rotator Training Program

HAGERSTOWN, Md, – Jerr-Dan, an Oshkosh Corporation company (NYSE: OSK), formally inaugurated its renovated training facility and updated heavy-duty rotator training program in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Featuring an outdoor hands-on training yard next door to a spacious, modern classroom facility, Jerr-Dan’s new training center hosted 25 industry veterans in the 2022 October class. Many of the students had attended earlier versions of the class in previous years and others had only recently ordered their first Jerr-Dan rotator.

This particular class consisted of advanced-level training for experienced operators. Six trainers, including two from Jerr-Dan’s engineering department, led the classes. Classroom instruction included an emphasis on “the math,” to quote the attendees’ comments in posttraining interviews.

“I’ve taught hundreds of operators in my career,” said one participant. “But I like how this class brought us all back to ‘the math,’ which is fundamental to proper rigging.”

The classroom training included intensive sessions, accompanied by practice worksheets, that covered how to calculate sling stress, tension factors, angle factors, and much more. Training was also provided in the use of Jerr-Dan’s new Tow Link™ app, which streamlines the process with a rigging calculator and a tow performance calculator.

Another attendee commented on the helpful combination of making the calculations in the classroom and then going outside to the training yard to see those calculations applied in a real-world setting. That handson training seemed to be appreciated by all the students.

One attendee encapsulated the general consensus when he said, “I like the hands-on experience because a lot of people, including myself, learn better and faster that way it. You can tell me how to do something, but I’m not really going to remember it unless you put the remote in my 6

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hands and let me do it.”

According to Jerr-Dan’s Richard Guttmann, JerrDan’s lead instructor in the training program, feedback received from the industry veterans attending the Q4 class will definitely lead to even more improvements in the curriculum to be used in future classes.

Regular classes will be held beginning in May of 2023.

Learn more about attending the next rotator training at jerrdan.com/operator-training.

For more information, visit www.jerrdan.com.

INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

Photo Card Specialists

Located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Photo Card Specialists, Inc. has produced customized business promotional items for North America’s transportation industry for over three decades. What makes Photo Card Specialists, Inc. unique is the relationship they have with their customers. Customers aren’t just numbers to owners Terry and Linda Biddle, but long term friends and partners in business whose success is important to them. Customer satisfaction is the number one priority at Photo Card Specialists, Inc., and they are proud to serve over 20,000 customers nationwide. Able to assist small family-owned companies to large-scale fleets, their quick turnaround time and transparent pricing leaves customers with peace of mind knowing that they will receive the highest value for their dollar.

The diversity of items available also makes Photo Card Specialists, Inc. a cut above the rest. The most popular products include a vast array of calendar styles featuring full color company photos, as well as business cards, post cards, brochures, blankets, clocks and more. In addition to the many printed products offered, a full production laser department offers plaques and awards of all kinds, industrial signage, drinkware and gifts for every occasion.

All pricing includes the layout and emailed proof for

8

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approval.

Recognized for outstanding customer service and award-winning design, Photo Card Specialists, Inc. makes ordering easy. View a complete online catalog with pricing at PhotoCardSpec.com and then simply give them a call at 1-800-727-4488. If you’re not sure what items to select, customer service will even help you find the perfect promotional items for every unique business and budget.

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INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

Worldwide Equipment Sales We Solve Your Problems and bring solutions.

Worldwide Equipment is an authorized Hackney distributor with facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania. and Illinois. They are proud to unveil the Commander Series Service Body by Hackney.

This all-aluminum unit features a 15-foot service body available with multiple compartment options to suit your specific needs. All doors have automatic and manual locks, while the swing doors have flashing lights to alert drivers of open doors. The standard lift gate and trailer hitch with rear entry are sure to meet the needs of the job. The Hackney Commander Series Service Body comes in three main entry door options and the compartments are very customizable. Whether you’re a mechanic doing on-site repairs or bringing additional equipment to an accident scene this unit can fit your industry needs.

Worldwide Equipment’s 20-year history assures you that you can depend on them to provide the products and service you need for as long as you own your trucks.

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CONTINUING TO FIND WAYS TO SUPPORT THE INDUSTRY JUST LAUNCHED Commander Series Service Body!

Worldwide Equipment

www.wdelivers.com

601 Walnut Court | Rockdale, IL 60436

815-725-4400

INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

Personalized by Tracy

My employment in the towing business started in 2018 with my husband who has been in the towing business for 20+ years. Back In 2002, my husband was injured on the job when he was struck by a drunk driver while standing in the road next to his wrecker. The car’s side view mirror had struck him in the lower back, breaking his L5. Thankfully his injuries were not fatal. Although he still suffers from the injury, he was not paralyzed. It is understood, I know how hard and dangerous this job can be.

I started crafting in August 2015. My husband (David) was the only one working at the time and we had a rough time covering the bills. I decided that I needed to do something from home while taking care of the kids waiting for my youngest to start school full time. So, I purchased a stuffed balloon machine. I got a message on my business page (Personalized by Tracy) through Facebook from someone in Texas. She had just purchased the same type of machine and wanted to know how I got the designs on the balloons, and what type of machine I had. During our conversation, she introduced me to vinyl cutting machines.

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By October of 2015, I scraped up the money to purchase a vinyl machine. I had searched and watched videos and read so many different things about the machine teaching myself how to be creative. Come December 2015, my husband and I were struggling to figure out how to provide a Christmas for our seven children. I was confident enough to start selling the things that I was creating such as Christmas

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Personalized by Tracy Continued:

elves and stockings. My husband worked his normal job and when he got home, he concentrated on his passion of fixing and selling lightbars and beacon lights. I started selling personalized products. Our hard work paid off; we had earned enough money to provide a Christmas. I focused forward to where I wanted to go with my business and started creating things for other holidays like Valentines Day, Easter, Graduations and Halloween which had helped to provide for birthdays and the following Christmas. We continued this journey and have progressed and are thankful for our past customers and for any future customers as we continue to provide you with our products.

As of today, we have four adult children, three minor children, and our first grandchild was born last year.

In 2016 I bought out a company known as “Tow Truck Jewelry” that was well known in the early 2000’s. I went to my very first tow show in Ohio in 2021 and my second show in 2022 where I have met all kinds of great people who really put a lot of pride into their trucks and businesses. I realized 14

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that there are not many people creating products for this industry, and it has inspired me to work harder on making sure that the people have the opportunity to purchase products for what they love to do. I have created a product that I think people will love! A custom painted LED backlit flatbed with your company name. Tow operators love it, and I believe that company owners will love to see their company name shining bright on the wall.

To see a design lit up with your custom name is awesome, but for it to be custom to your line of work, makes it so much better. I currently offer a line of products for the towing community such as car decals, sublimated 20 oz tumblers, t-shirts, custom leather belts, belt buckles, Zippos, suspenders etc. I have made it a personal goal for the people in the towing business to know that they are appreciated for their hard work in a very dangerous environment, and if I can create something that makes them proud of the job they do, I have done my part in making this industry a little better!

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INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

Boxes4U Says Thank You! Boxes 4 U wants to thank you for being a valuable vendor! Earlier this year, Nikki & Robert retired after 31 years of being on their box journey. Before passing the baton, they partnered with Team shares to turn Boxes 4 U into an employee-owned business, which basically means that all the employees are still here and owners. We have welcomed a new president, TANNER FAULKNER! He brings a consistent passion of excellence for the Boxes 4 U team. We are confident & committed to continuing our business success together with you.

Thank you again for your support.

TowMate Spearheads Successful Renewal of 5-Year Wireless Tow Light Exemption for Tow Truck Operators ROGERS, AR — TowMate, a leading US manufacturer of LED lighting and roadside safety systems for automotive applications for over 35 years, is proud to announce the successful renewal of a 5-year exemption for the use of their wireless tow lights on US roadways.

This exemption, granted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), has a backdated effective date of February 9, 2023, ensuring that any citation issued during the lapse in coverage from the previous exemption can be nullified.

As the inventor of wireless tow lights, TowMate has been dedicated to providing professional tow truck operators and others with innovative, efficient, and safe tools to execute their tasks more effectively.

The exemption journey began with a 2-year exemption, followed by another 2-year exemption, and then a 5-year exemption. The recent lapse in coverage occurred before a new exemption could be published, but TowMate’s diligent work with the FMCSA has led to the approval of another 5-year exemption, published on April 19, 2023.

TowMate is also pleased to report that a permanent solution is in the works, which will ensure the lasting acceptance and use of wireless tow lights on US roadways.

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This ongoing effort demonstrates TowMate’s dedication to championing the needs of professional tow truck operators and ensuring they have the necessary tools to perform their duties quickly and safely.

“We are thrilled with the FMCSA’s decision to renew the 5-year exemption for wireless tow lights,” said Chris Anderson, Vice President of TowMate. “Our team has worked tirelessly to make sure that tow truck operators can continue to utilize these innovative tools, which are essential for efficient and safe towing. We look forward to the implementation of a permanent solution and will continue to advocate for the best interests of our customers and the towing industry as a whole.”

For more information TowMate products, or to find a TowMate dealer near you contact us at the below: Phone: (800) 680-4455 Email: info@towmate.com Website: www.towmate.com/dealers

INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

The American Towing & Recovery Institute Announces New Member & Sponsorship Program Focused on Education, Discount Buying & Advertising.

2023 Membership Program Includes: Our membership program has always been a favorite among professional towing & recovery owners, managers, or anyone with buying power for the substantial purchase discounts. We have added many benefits for the towing & recovery professional tower, to name a few:

• • • • • •

Monthly Electric Vehicle Webinars Online (Complementary) Manufacturers Electric Vehicle & Heavy Truck Towing Instructions (Over 450 pages) Exclusive Discounts for Online Webinars National Towing Operator Certification (Light Duty), More Levels Coming Soon Substantial Purchase Discounts Exclusive Membership Business Mediation/Review

All Sponsorship Levels Include the Benefits Listed Above Plus the Following: BRONZE:

• • •

• • • •

Complementary Class Seats to all hands-on classes Sponsor Recognition during classroom presentations Plus Much More!

SILVER: All Bronze Level Benefits Plus Logo in all Printed Seminar Manuals Logo on postcards placed in all orders, seminars, tow shows, events, etc Plus Much More!

GOLD:

• • • •

All Bronze & Silver Level Benefits PLUS! Logo in all Printed Seminar Manuals Logo on postcards placed in all orders, seminars, tow shows, events, etc Plus Much More!

PLATINUM:

• • • • •

All Bronze, Silver & Gold Level Benefits PLUS! Endorsements by ATRI Quarterly Podcast Segments Podcast Commercial Plus Much More!

For More Info: American Towing & Recovery Institute PO Box 007, Wade NC 28395 18

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3

910-747-9000 or fax 910-486-8930 wes@amtowri.org | www.amtowri.org

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• Thursday — Live Auction • Friday Night — A Party to Remember with Live Band • Friday Night — Candle Light Vigil • Saturday Night — Miller Industries Customer Appreciation Demo • Lots of Kid Activities

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INDUSTRY NEWS TOWING & RECOVERY

Online Impound Auctions Platform is Available Nationwide!

OnlineImpoundAuctions.com allows Tow Lot Owners to seamlessly dispose of their abandoned vehicles and maximize their sales revenue. Created with over 38 years’ experience in the Towing Industry, the platform is designed with a keen understanding of Tow Lot Owners’ goals and business practices.

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3

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• • • •

Streamlines after auction paperwork – invoices available immediately after car sells!

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Special offers for Towing and Recovery Association members – ask us!

White Glove services available – we will set up your showroom for you!

Contact us at www.OnlineImpoundAuctions.com or 888903-4678.

AN EXPERT WITNESS BY

JAMES

E.

LEWIS

///

DO EXPERT WITNESSES HAVE A SHELF LIFE? Does this also apply to tow operators?

D

uring two recent cases, an interesting question came up. Do expert witnesses have a shelf life? While we don’t believe that a person completely stops being relevant, but like a doctor who has never taken updated courses and gained additional certifications, they’re operating (literally) based on current information they gleaned in medical school many moons ago. The same theory applies to experts in the transportation safety field, along with several other fields. The rhetorical question that begs to be asked is, if a person hasn’t had relevant experience in decades, how could they properly investigate and form 22

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

an opinion on something where they have no current experience?

First case in point: I was retained on the defense side of an injury incident case in Louisiana. An independent contractor had entered the storage yard at a large insurance auction business, cobbled together a stack of pallets and debris to have the loader set a wrecked Kenworth tractor’s front end on, and the contractor and his helper crawled all over the Kenworth while trying to move the front axle back into place. It had been “knocked out” of position during a wreck, and

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trpnc@nctowing.org | (919) 921-8194

AN EXPERT WITNESS BY

JAMES

E.

LEWIS

///

they were going to try to put it back into place so the truck could be pulled “piggyback” style. While they were under the truck pulling and banging on things to move the axle, the truck fell, and severed the legs of the contractor’s helper. A lawsuit was filed, depositions were handled, discovery was completed, and experts were retained on both sides.

I reviewed the plaintiff’s expert’s curriculum vitae (resume) and past case history.

This man charged significantly outrageous fees, and opined as a “transportation safety expert witness,” but during my investigation, it was determined that the other expert had never

Our mission is to: • Evoke the public conscious to understand they are the most powerful source to define life and death on our Nation’s highways.

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OVER ONE – LOSE NONE! 24

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

driven a truck as an actual truck driver for wages. His father was in the Army as a truck driver and gained his commercial license through a grandfather clause in the early 1980s. He taught his son, plaintiff’s expert, how to drive so his son could get a CDL and be a heavy truck mechanic. Plaintiff’s expert stopped working on heavy trucks in 1992 and started teaching diesel technician courses at a local community college. He then became an expert witness, despite never having any transportation safety courses, having worked as a safety manager, or even a driver trainer. Still, he had worked on more than 300 cases where he opined as a transportation safety expert.

During my deposition, plaintiff’s counsel asked about opinions I’d formed. I explained that plaintiff’s expert had no experience relevant to being a “transportation safety expert witness” and had never worked in the transportation or safety fields. The case was settled a week later, and plaintiff’s counsel later reached out to me, explaining that he could no longer use the other expert, based on realizing his qualifications were truly

misplaced and did not apply to transportation safety cases.

In a more recent case, I was retained to work on the defense side of a double-brokering scenario that resulted in a truck crash. The freight brokerage in the middle of a transaction between a major food supplier and a trucking company was named in the suit. The case centered around the fact that the trucking company contracted by the broker handed off the load to an unvetted driver who was operating illegally and had a crash that injured several people badly.

During the discovery process, a long-time transportation expert witness with a well-known name was retained for the plaintiff’s side. I studied that person’s curriculum vitae and noticed several things: the man hadn’t operated a truck as a truck driver or driver trainer in the actual “field” since 1983. 40 years ago. The man started several truck driving schools and worked as an entry-level driver trainer, teaching the skills necessary to pass the commercial driver’s license test, but that’s

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25

AN EXPERT WITNESS BY

JAMES

E.

LEWIS

where his experience ended. He hadn’t held any position related to transportation safety, transportation management, or operations. The most damning issue, in the current case, was that he had absolutely no experience with freight brokers and how they operate. And he was

///

going to be giving opinions toward transportation safety and freight brokerage operations.

To further clarify, this man operated a truck during the “old days” of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC). The ICC was partly

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disbanded in 1995 with the advent of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the ICC was fully phased out by 1999. 24 years ago. The entire truck driver hours-of-service system was overhauled, as was the safety reporting and scorekeeping system, along with driver fitness changes, and many regulatory guidelines. It was a whole different world after 1995, and this man had stopped actively driving on public roads 12 years before that. There were additional, huge changes to driver hours-of-service operations in 2005, 2013, and 2018. The introduction of electronic logging systems was in 2010, with the electronic logging devices being mandated between 2017-2019. And this man, with no current experience for 40 years, would speak to the current case transportation safety issues, electronic logging, and brokerage issues on a crash that occurred in 2022.

There are fields where things don’t change much over the years – carpentry, concrete work, and painting all come to mind with only minor changes due to new technology. Transportation safety and compliance isn’t one of those areas.

If your expert doesn’t have recent experience, there’s a good chance he can be defeated on the witness stand by a sharp opposing counsel who realizes that expert witnesses have a shelf life.

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www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

27

INSIGHTFUL TALK BY

DAN

MESSINA

///

Road Map to Success

I

got into the towing business over 25 years ago.

As I reflect on my career in towing, my wife and I discovered it was a pretty good life. Yes, there were ups and downs, pitfalls and success stories but over all the people we met and the success we had was worth all the pain that comes along with towing. It started with beginning a tow company. We knew nothing about towing when we started, and the towing we were doing was all private property towing.

I did not know that this type of towing existed, because I had never been towed. It was all new to me and I learned fast. Things I faced when I got started were: 1.

Finding drivers 2.

Finding a lot to store cars 3.

What types of trucks 4.

What types of dispatch software would we need 5.

Identify a customer base 28

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My mentor taught me a long time ago to take one thing and be the best at it that we could be. I had a chance to open a car lot, or a salvage lot from the cars towed. We wanted to concentrate on our towing business. I ran a business in the past, but never started a business from scratch. I bought a truck and found one driver. No accounts and I was not sure how to get customers. Using my business skills I learned from the past, I immediately built up a nice customer base. In just seven short years, I built a business of 17 trucks, 34 employees, and over 1,000 accounts, and did I mention that I had two people fighting to buy my company!

The seven years I was in business I discovered that I had great skills in business. Because of my success I was asked to start a towing association in Texas.

Texas already had an association but there were tow companies that thought they were unfair. Over the course of one year, I built Southwest Tow Operators

with a membership base of over 1,000 members. We brought in over one million dollars in our first year with an operating budget of over $200,000 a year. I know it’s not good to have multiple associations in one state, but we were forced to start one.

After the association got up and running, I stepped down as president, but remained on the board. Because I knew a lot of tow operators, I wanted to make sure I stayed in the business. Over the years of doing seminars at tow shows, I learned that tow companies did not like motor clubs, and motor clubs did not like tow companies. I identified a problem that needed to be fixed. I developed another company that would: 1. Be a winner for tow companies and give them tows they never had before 2. Be a winner for the motor clubs that allowed them to save money and give them better ETA’s 3. Be a winner, the consumer would not have to wait hours for tow companies I started TowTrax, a phone application that would work like Uber and find the closest tow truck to the incident. I looked at the competition, and what they developed realizing it would take a lot of money to build my company. I developed a stock option that would allow investors to purchase stock in my company. I had a few big investors ready to invest when the pandemic hit, and they all ran away.

Not knowing what to do, I reached out to the industry and asked for help. I explained what I was doing while offering them an opportunity

to invest by buying stock. I had 17 tow companies invest over $1,200,000 in my company. I had complete strangers giving me a minimum of $30,000 to help get me started. I had two companies give me over $100,000 and two companies give me over $400,000.

It amazed me that I have complete strangers who had enough faith and trust in me to invest in TowTrax. This is why I love this industry.

TowTrax is now in 32 states, and 151 markets supporting five major customers. We are about to expand our business to out lines of business

INGENUITY AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP custombuiltmfg.com www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 TOW PROFESSIONAL

29

INSIGHTFUL TALK BY

DAN

MESSINA

that will double our volume.

I was telling my wife that we started a tow company with one truck and no accounts and turned it into a multi-million-dollar business.

We took an association with no members and built it into one of the largest associations in the U.S. with an operating budget over $200,000

///

annually. We built TowTrax, a third business, and turned it into a multimillion-dollar success story. All of this caused us to discover our unknown talents.

Because of our success in three different ventures, I decided to write a book. The name of the book is “The Road Map to Success.“ It

Success AND Winning

ROAD MAP TO SUCCESS FOR ENTREPRENEURS BY: D A N M E S S I N A

DEDICATED TO TEACHING FELLOW TOWERS HOW TO GET PAID

You Do the Work You Deserve to Get Paid We Teach You Proper way of writing invoices

Keeping the paper trail

Are you still writing your RECOVERY invoice on a TOW slip? That’s a thing of the past.

Learn how to properly document the scene from start to finish so you will have all the info you need back at the office.

Accident scene clean up

Billing on property damage liability insurance only

Are you leaving car debris and oil behind at the accident scene? You can be liable for this even YEARS later. We show you how to make site remediation profitable not an expense.

Have you heard that your customer is not covered?

We show you different avenues to get paid.

Communicating with insurance/ private companies We show you how to work WITH insurance/private companies NOT AGAINST them.

Laws that are on your side Overview of federal and state laws to help you get paid!

Obtaining payment for proper billing There are many steps that go into collecting a check for your hard work. We teach you how to go about the process from start to finish.

Guest speakers Lawyer and Insurance Executive

1,000s of companies attended!

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I personally want to say that it is well worth the time and money.

I made the money back for the class from a job that we did before the class for a stolen recovery in someone’s back yard that I was not sure how to get paid and this class gave me the knowledge to get paid for this job. Long story short, it is a great investment to our business.

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

explains, step by step, what I had to do to build success for each company. I followed the same steps and did the same things to approach each business. I also tell three stories: 1.

A trip to the Super Bowl 2.

A competitive softball team 3.

A 50th class reunion

— Capeway Towing

I used the same approach for the businesses that I did in the three stories. A good strategy can apply to just about anything you want to accomplish. The book is designed to help my fellow towers build their businesses and enjoy the success I did. The book will be going to Amazon on April 17th for publication and distribution.

I hope my information and stories in “The Road Map to Success” help others. Let me know if you have questions.

www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 TOW PROFESSIONAL

31

Benefiting for the families of our fallen

If each company in the industry gave just $5 when a tragedy occurs, we could generously support the families of our fallen in so many new ways.

Can you give $5 when a tower dies?

Help us support those left behind by the dangers of our profession.

The Survivor Fund The “Survivor Fund” was created in 2006 to complement the International Towing and Recovery Museum’s Wall of the Fallen. This fund was established to help those families who have lost a loved one in the line of service.

A Survivor Fund committee was formed of people from all over the United States from the towing industry. The committee is given the information

Survivor Fund Continuing Support

regarding the fallen and the application is

To ensure the longevity of these benefits as we work

processed within 24 hours of receipt. Once the

to build a perpetual fund, we are asking each person,

decision is made, a check is sent right away to the

company and organization in the industry to

family to assist with immediate financial issues

participate in supporting the Survivor Fund and these

during this tragic time in their lives.

families when a tragedy occurs. Your pledge to become a Survivor Fund Continuing Support Partner

Company owners, family members, or friends can

represents a commitment to our industry.

submit the application for benefits on behalf of the family of the deceased. The application can be

As a Continuing Support Partner, you will receive an

found on the website at www.thesurvivorfund.com

e-mail from the Survivor Fund when a tragedy occurs

and can be submitted by mail, fax, or e-mail.

and meets the governing guidelines of the Survivor Fund for disbursement. As always, the ITRHFM

Fourteen years of service to the towing and recovery

Survivor Fund will handle direct payment to the

industry worldwide

families. We will simply solicit your contribution in the

Managed by industry professionals

pledged amount to replenish and build our fund after

Pledges replenish funds and allow payout growth

each approved payout. The e-mail you receive will

$7,500 benefit, $9,500 for museum members

provide information on the current tragedy as well as

Immediate funds to help at the time of tragedy

information on how to remit the payment to honor

Funded by donations only

your pledge.

Hundreds of families supported Tiered system allows payout increases based on reserves Hundreds of thousands of dollars paid out to date

www.thesurvivorfund.com/pledge Make your pledge today to support our industry.

FUEL 4 THOUGHT BY

D.J.

HARRINGTON

CSP

///

Largest Tow Show

T

he Florida Tow Show is the largest international show in this towing and recovery industry. This past weekend, I spent two fully packed days in the Tow Professional booth handing out the current issue of this magazine; all 70 pages of it. You could tell from the statements and questions received, while at this show, that most owners said they received their issues in the mail or that drivers wanted their own copy of it.

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

Others from outside the United States asked what we do. Additionally, a few of them who spoke English, had listened to our podcast; it’s heard world-wide. We had towers from the UK who stopped by the booth and took a picture of the “Tow Doctor.” That is another story.

The lady across the way from the Tow Professional booth kept seeing people asking to take a picture of me with them or a member of their family. After the first day of watching this happen, she asked someone in her booth “who is that guy wearing the doctor outfit with a stethoscope around his neck that pulls out the large

veterinarian orange glove from his pocket?” That person told her that he has spoken at lots of tow shows, has written in the towing industry over 30 plus years and now for the past 10 years has written a column in the Tow Professional magazine.

So, thinking that I might be a celebrity or such, this lady walks over on the second day of the show to see why each person took my picture. My response was this, “they couldn’t believe I’m still alive.” “Yes,” I told her, “I’m 75 years young and still going.” I continued, explaining that the funniest part of the show is people, because they take my picture to go with the voice of the podcast that I do with Darian Weaver, the Publisher and President of this magazine. Every week, we present

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FUEL 4 THOUGHT BY

D.J.

HARRINGTON

CSP

///

the fastest growing podcast. Thank you, Towbook, who again had a great show because their booth was packed both days of the show from so much interest in what they do. Besides Towbook, I want to thank three more companies who sponsor the podcast and Darian Weaver too.

“Thank you” goes to Jerr-Dan, Co-part and Recovery Billing Unlimited who sponsor the podcast each week.

It’s a must to listen each week because it brings to you the latest in technology, products, and services that can help you grow your business. It was great seeing Jeff Irr from WorldWide Equipment too. Jeff is coming

with me to the Largest Annual Recyclers Conference in the United States. George Metos, the business broker, will be there along with Brian Riker, the speaker you’ve come to know as “Your D.O.T. Guy”.

I want to thank Gay Rochester, from INA Towing Network for all she does for this industry. Mrs. Rochester is a true gift and one of the most kind and generous Christian women that I know. I’m proud to call her a friend. When people want to grow their business, they ask me to introduce them to Gay. I feel it’s because after working with her, their business grows.

Talking about growing business, AutoDataDirect will be featured on one of our next podcasts. It is always good seeing Frank Toms again. Now, you will get a chance to meet him on the podcast.

It was also good seeing Robert Young from Robert Young Trucks. I visited with my dear friend, Ron Pullen from R & P Recovery Consulting Services. Thanks to Jason and James from Mericle’s Towing and their whole team because they had 12 or more of their people at this show.

Friends in this industry who also made the trip worthwhile are Bill Giorgis, from Michigan, April Wilburn, the wonderful wife of the trainer, Wes Wilburn from American Towing & Recovery Institute.

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

Together, Wes and I do a great podcast each week from which you learn a lot from Wes. People that everyone knows are Danny Horton, Hall of Famer, Patrick Nahoum, now with Peddle.

I saw again my dear friend, Johnny Sun, for TowToolz from California, and Chad and Dale from Savannah, GA who have been good friends for many years. Additionally, it was my pleasure to see Todd Stepps, Al Greg, George Connley, Kevin Goodyear, and Matt and Bobby from (ESA) Energy Security Agency.

Please listen to the podcasts and read the magazine. If you are an owner and you don’t get a copy of it, please send your email to: darian@towprofessional.com and get it nine times a year. NO COST. And get the new Digital Interactive Quarterly.

PODCAST

I will see you next time and especially on the Tow Professional podcast.

www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

37

IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS

CAMERAS

that fit a towing business

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

T

he towing industry is very unique and presents challenges that most telematics and camera companies struggle to provide the type of service needed. None of them will be perfect or provide every desire of your heart as you are talking about sophisticated technology strapped to a tow truck. It’s just important that your cameras fit your business, and basic dashcams don’t give most towers the amount of protection they need.

By now most tow company owners have either purchased or looked into dash cams for their trucks and, if not, your insurance company will be talking to you about it soon for a multitude of reasons.

You will of course be able to use it to fight fraudulent claims or to know when to settle a claim. It’s like that

after school special slogan… The more you know!

As a commercial vehicle, you are a target for ambulance chasing attorneys because they know it is in the insurance companies’ best interest to settle.

Many times, they can settle the claim for less than what it would cost them to fight it and win. Mainly, this is because they can’t prove your innocence and no matter what the other party doesn’t have in the way of proof… the “burden of proof” is on you. When you have video proof, you own the truth and can use it to fight the claim or to know that your driver was at fault and settle out of court if possible.

With the right system you can limit bumper or damage claims- How many times have you gotten a call that your driver damaged my bumper or my vehicle?

www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

39

IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS

What if every time you engaged your PTO, your cameras could automatically save a video of the vehicles you have assisted. Would that help? What if you could reduce 40

the amount of damage claims by 50%. Is money right back in your pocket? This is fully possible with today’s technology, but you will need a system that has a rear facing

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

exterior camera and that is PTO enabled in order to make it happen.

Protect your drivers from fraudulent harassment or distracted driving claims- After speaking

with many insurance companies and risk managers, the new issue to fight is distracted driving or sexual harassment of people being towed.

I know, I know. Drivers don’t like the interior cameras, and I get it but it is truly for their protection. Tell them you don’t want to watch them pick their nose or listen to them argue with their girlfriend all day. You just need to be able to protect them and your business if something comes up.

People looking to sue know that claiming your driver was texting or looking at their phone is the easiest path to winning a lawsuit, and again all they have to do is claim it. The burden of proof is on you. Also, allowing customers into the cab of your vehicle comes with its own possible issues - sexual or

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www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

41

IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS other forms of harassment. Having an interior camera and especially one that will help you train and keep drivers from being on their phones can save you from fraudulent claims and help change the behavior of your drivers going forward.

As you are looking, here are things that need to be at the top of your wish list: 1) You need to be able to access them live whenever you want via your computer or on your phone.

This allows you to be on scene even when you can’t physically be on scene. In towing, sometimes you just have to be there. This sucks when you are in bed after a long day and you have someone on scene who just needs your help. It’s nice that no matter if you are in the office or in bed you can quickly see what the camera sees in real time.

2) Make certain that you access the cameras from the same platform as your telematics, not a thirdparty platform. Third-party platforms have proven over time to not be reliable and just add another

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

failure point and unneeded expense. The K.I.S.S. method applies here (Keep It Simple Stupid).

3) Rear and/or side cameras are essential. Eighty percent of the jobs with towing businesses take place on the back of the truck so be certain that they can provide rear facing cameras too.

Be weary of any company who wants you to add a third-party camera to the system. Again, there have been many who have tried this and, unfortunately, found out only when they needed video that they had connectivity issues and didn’t get the footage they needed.

4) Also, rear cameras help you with driver safety.

Most towers spend lots of money training their guys on how to properly load and secure vehicles, as well as, use proper safety procedures to prevent injuries and unnecessary events. But as soon as you aren’t there, they get amnesia or just don’t care. With a rear facing camera, you will have the ability to view each time they are on the roadside. The next thing you can do is

once or twice a week call them in and watch how they do. Go over with them mistakes they made or ways they can improve. This will be a great time to coach them but also allow the ones who are intentionally not doing it correctly know that you can see what they are doing every time they load a vehicle on your truck. It will encourage them to do it right, follow safety procedures, and discourage any moonlighting other funny business.

Telematics and cameras are important tools that can protect your business, make you more efficient, and keep you compliant but they are just that - tools.

If you take a shovel and lean it against a tree, it won’t accomplish anything. But if you want to use these tools to help your business, they must be installed correctly and should be affordable. You need to be trained so you and your staff know how to use them as well as be able to access them when needed. Also, know immediately if they aren’t working.

At Azuga, we offer state of the art equipment and service that can help you meet all of these challenges and needs. We offer telematics, asset tracking, fully live camera systems with rear cameras available, E-logs, custom reporting, maintenance programs, and we are the primary integration partner with Towbook.

Our integration with them helps you get additional benefits from your Towbook including, more accurate vehicle location, ignition on/off, vehicle speeds, idling times, PTO engagements, automatic driver updates, and coming very soon video. Our goal is to make it so your dispatchers and managers never need to leave Towbook or switch screens... everything you need in one pane of glass.

To learn more about how you can get a system that fits your needs go to www.offer.azuga.com/towbook or call 205-728-9135

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• Auto Liability - $100,000 to $1,000,000 CSL with no deductible or radius restriction • Physical Damage comprehensive and collision deductible – $500-$2,500 • Auto Medical Payments – $1,000 to $5,000 • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (non-stacked) – Basic limits or as required by law • Personal Injury Protection – Basic limits or as required by law • General Liability – $100,000 to $4,000,000 CSL (General liability covers premises and operations - even operations away from the premises such as road side) • Hired and Non Owned Liability – Limits equal to General Liability • Garage Keeper’s Legal Liability – Maximum limit per location $500,000 CSL • On Hook/Cargo – Maximum limit per auto $300,000 with excess policies available a. Loading and unloading is included in our cargo form, and will cover the cargo while it is in the process of recovery until it is delivered or stored. b. Our cargo form is the broadest in the industry with coverage for equipment hauled as well as autos. Contents of vehicles are covered as well. c. NO DRIVE TRAIN EXCLUSION - we do not exclude drive train damage on our cargo form. d. Debris removal is included in our cargo form with a sub-limit of $2,500.

Other Available Coverage • Accidental Death and Dismemberment of $10,000 per life on the policy is included on all accounts offered

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877-578-1516 | info@interlinerisk.com www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

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IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS

Fleet Tracking Tools Stay On Track With Traxero’s

Always know where your fleet is in real-time with Traxero’s in-truck cameras and GPS software

By Jeff Pesnell and Laura Dolan

I

n recent years, in-truck cameras and mobile video systems have become increasingly popular, and necessary, among tow fleet operators. These systems are designed to enhance the safety and security of drivers, as well as to provide valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of rolling fleet.

With its recent acquisition of BudgetGPS, Traxero has been able to enhance and optimize its fleet tracking tools for its customers, providing both robust software and hardware solutions.

BudgetGPS is a vehicle and fleet tracking solution geared toward any industry, but specifically designed to support fleet management within the towing industry. Traxero has partnered with many industries that have invested in our GPS software and hardware tools in an effort to enhance the safety and responsibility among their drivers as well as improve their own customer service.

Traxero’s fleet tracking provides all the tools that towing operators need to keep drivers compliant and safe out on the roadways.

Benefits Of Fleet Tracking Traxero’s Towing Management Software (TMS) includes a fleet tracking integration that helps towing companies stay on top of where their operators are located so they can more efficiently dispatch them to new jobs and increase their productivity and profitability. BudgetGPS can also be integrated with other popular towing management packages including Beacon, InTow, Omadi, TOPS, and Tracker.

With the TOPS integration, for example, BudgetGPS offers a true visual dispatching tool where users can view current vehicle locations 44

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

as well as unassigned pickup locations and drop-off information on the same map.

Icons are color coded, allowing for a visual picture of calls that are in-process and those that are about to clear. Knowing when and where drivers will clear from their current call enables dispatchers to send the best and closest resource to the next job. This saves tow fleet operators time and money. Additionally, users are able to monitor ETAs based on mapping calculations of drive time between the truck and pickup locations.

“BudgetGPS is a very useful tool for our business. The way that it interfaces with the TOPS dispatch system makes for accurate and timely information and avoids wasting time re-entering data,” said Cathy Rozier from Allen’s Towing Service in Jacksonville, FL. “We are able to track our vehicles and give our customers accurate ETAs. The system is easy to use to enter/update vehicle information and the reports available are helpful for monitoring the driver’s habits as well as verifying the vehicle location history. I highly recommend BudgetGPS.” With Traxero’s fleet management tools, towers are also empowered to: • Get faster, more accurate live updates. This way, tow fleet operators can find out exactly where

•

•

each of their vehicles are located and which can be dispatched to another job.

Receive immediate geofence alerts via text and email. These notifications indicate when vehicles enter or leave a designated area.

See full history reports of each vehicle’s activity.

These include time stopped, idle, speeds, and directions.

Traxero’s state mileage reports help towers see a breakdown by truck and by state of how many miles they have traveled within each state.

Stops reports provide information on when and where drivers are stopped. Towers can also view traffic patterns from Google maps in real-time.

Protection Via Video Evidence When it comes to hardware, Traxero’s in-truck cameras are designed to provide valuable evidence in the event of an accident or dispute. With video evidence, tow truck drivers can prove fault and protect themselves from false claims.

This is especially important for drivers who are involved in accidents while towing heavy loads or working

www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

45

IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS in hazardous conditions. Video evidence can also help expedite the insurance claims process, saving drivers time and money.

This evidence can protect a driver and fleet business from many of the issues faced on the roads today including insurance fraud, staged accidents, false/ exaggerated whiplash claims, conflicting reports of actual events, driving offense allegations, which often include speeding, traffic signal violations, swerving, and more.

BudgetGPS’ industry-leading hardware can be mounted discreetly inside the cab of the vehicle. Features of the dash cam include: • Driver’s view of the road • Inside view of the cabin, which is an optional feature • Vehicle GPS location

• •

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

Traxero’s camera units also allow towers to stay on top of where their drivers are located so they can more effectively dispatch them to new jobs and increase their productivity and profitability.

Another benefit of Traxero’s fleet tracking solutions is that they can help to improve the efficiency of tow truck businesses. With video monitoring, managers can keep track of the location of their drivers and ensure that they are staying on schedule.

Additionally, video footage can be used to identify areas where drivers may be wasting time or resources, allowing managers to make adjustments and improve the overall efficiency of their operations. “[It’s a] great system! It allows us to know where all of our trucks are at any given time so we can dispatch more efficiently,” said Karen Vanderpool of Lazer Towing in Kansas City, MO. “We can set up alerts if they exceed a specified MPH, or exit a specified ‘zone’ that we set up. We can also run historical reports showing many details about their travels. Highly recommend BudgetGPS!”

Accountability And Transparency At the end of the day, these systems provide many valuable benefits for towing companies by enhancing accountability, improving safety, facilitating communication, increasing efficiency, and augmenting customer service.

Tow truck companies that leverage Traxero’s fleet tracking tools can ensure that their operations run smoothly, provide top-notch service to their customers, and save time and money.

Onboarding And Support Traxero’s fleet tracking software requires no contract. We will never make you sign a long-term agreement of any kind. All plans are month-to-month with low upfront and monthly cost, so there is no pressure to commit.

Our support team is here to help you get set up and answer any questions about how our cameras or GPS software work. For any questions or support needs, go to our website traxero.com/contact or call us at 1-800428-4715 if you’re interested in a product tour.

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www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

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IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS

Saving Lives, Reducing Risk, & Lowering Costs Keeping Operators, Road Workers & First Responders Safe We know that American highways and roads are dangerous work environments. The workers who go out every day to keep us moving are risking their lives.

So many factors contribute to the elevated level of roadway risk, such as distracted drivers, road congestion, inclement weather, construction work, operator & driver fatigue, and even lighting, to name a few. What makes this extra challenging is that each of these factors is constantly changing in the workspace.

It is important for workers to remain constantly vigilant to their dynamic work environment and approaching risks. But this itself is a tiresome exercise.

That is why on-going training and proper safety 48

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

equipment are such critical elements in our nation’s highway safety approach.

We cover the “business end” of your business.

“I had the proof of innocence I needed in a few short clicks – their attorney went running!”

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Vehicle video systems operate in extremely difficult environments. It is vital to monitor the cameras to ensure they are performing as expected. Our patent

pending proprietary CamCheckTM system is the only industry leading system that proactively remotely pings your vehicle camera system. CamCheckTM uses our advanced proprietary algorithms to inspect your cameras for quality and performance. We alert you to issues impacting camera performance such as: camera offline, dirty lenses, vehicle offline, incorrect angles or obstruction. Our cloud-based platform pings vehicles and cameras every 4 hours!

Plus, our durable cameras are built for the harsh conditions tow trucks regularly face. Our tamper resistant controls and media storage avoid accidental or intentional interference.

CamCheck pings your cameras every day to confirm operations and alerts you to issues.

Effective Training and Supervision with an Impact When it comes to training, we learn more if it is specific and relevant to us personally. When training

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PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS WITH YOUR PHOTOS www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

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IN-TRUCK CAMERAS

MOBILE VIDEOS

is abstract it is easy to think, it does not apply to us or our situation, however when real examples are used it becomes more tangible. Since your work is done out on the road, it can be difficult (or impossible) to supervise team members and see how well they are following good safety protocols. Of course, if you were right there, you could obviously give immediate and direct feedback – the best kind. CruiseCamTM gives you remote live streaming access to observe situations in real time.

With integrated GPS location reporting built into our camera system you can not only see where your trucks are but see what they are doing in real-time.

“I can share my years of experience with my drivers as a coach and resource while they are on the road facing tough challenges. It really improves safety and performance.”

Easily access up to 400 hours on MDVR video footage.

Our platform allows you to easily search for just the right video. You can quickly filter based upon vehicle, location, GPS, or Date/time. Having access to all the vital video footage (front, back, rear, interior) makes defending false claims a breeze. The system automatically starts recording upon ignition and continues to record for 30 minutes after the truck is turned off – ensuring you have complete before, during and after story.

Fully Integrated with the Best-in-Class Partners: GEOTAB & Mobileye When you combine a CruiseCamTM system with our best-in-class partners you get the best vehicle management solution in a single seamless integrated platform.

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Truckers Are Easy Targets Don’t fall prey to unscrupulous claims and lawyers.

Be prepared to defend yourself.

On average drivers spend less than 1% of our time in reverse, but 25% of all accidents are going backward.

So of course, people love to try to blame trucks – even if they rear ended us! You need proof of innocence. The CruiseCamTM system gives you the full story – rear, side, front and cab. We can give you the right configuration to meet your exact needs. Get the precise configuration you need!

Video Fills an Important Safety Training Need If you have actual video footage covering the work environment, then you can give real feedback to employees. This is far more memorable and might save their life or the life of someone else. I’m not talking about the in-cab camera. They are nice, but what is happening outside is super important. For those operating tow trucks or work vehicles on highways and roads – the back and side views are vital for safety training and claims defense. You need situational awareness when reviewing and training both new and seasoned employees. The CruiseCamTM system by Mobile Video Computing Solutions (MVCS) offers the best-in-class video coverage.

The CruiseCamTM system is designed to provide you with the critical video and situational awareness you need for safety and training.

monitoring, to ensure they are operating properly and remote access for both live viewing and video download.

When you combine that with its built-in GPS and route tracking you can see why CruiseCamTM is the industry’s best choice for fleet video solutions.

The Right Gear Could Save a Life We can’t control the other drivers on the road, but we can give our drivers and crew every advantage.

With two versions of the CruiseCamTM system available CruiseCamTM I and CruiseCamTM III, you can be sure you will find the right solutions for your vehicles.

Plus, CruiseCamTM system’s include state-of-the-art www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

51

Towing Museum Increases Survivor Fund Benefits Member benefits to increase to $15,000 per incident.

The International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum (ITRHFM) has increased its death benefit to $15,000 for families of museum member companies.

As a result of the Survivor Fund’s successful pledge drive and outstanding industry financial support, the ITRHFM board of directors recently voted to increase the death benefit paid to each approved application from $12,000 per incident to $15,000 per incident, if the deceased was employed by a company who is a member in good standing of the museum or if the deceased was a member in good standing.

“We are proud to see the industry support of the Survivor Fund and excited to increase the benefit to the families of our fallen,” said Survivor Fund Committee Co-Chairman Jeffrey Godwin. “We hope more companies and individuals in the industry will become members of the museum to preserve our history and to provide this meaningful protection for the families of their employees.”

“We hope more companies and individuals in the industry will become members of the museum to preserve our history and to provide this meaningful protection for the families of their employees.”

Jeffrey Godwin Founded in 2006 and managed by the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum, the Survivor Fund was started to offer financial support to the families who have lost a loved one in the line of service within the industry. Since 2006, the Survivor Fund has approved and paid out hundreds of claims to support families in their time of need due to tragic accidents.

Increases in benefits to families are made based on the fundraising of the Survivor Fund and the increased security of the fund based on its investment health.

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The Wall of the Fallen Memorial is the only one of its kind honoring towing operators who have died in the line of service.

About ITRHFM The International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum is home to the Wall of the Fallen Memorial, the only one in the world for the towing industry. It was unveiled September 22, 2006.

The museum is currently located at 3315 Broad St., Chattanooga, TN. Learn more about the museum, the Survivor Fund and the Wall of the Fallen at www.towingmuseum.com

HONORING OUR

VETERANS! We want your stories of Veterans in your family!

Men & Women that served our country, that came back and put their heart of service back into their community towing!

Lets Honor them on our pages!

Send to: Darian@towprofessional.com

JUMP PACKS

JUMP STAR + ER FOR YOUR TOW OPERATION CHOOSING A

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

I When it comes to the question of which jump starter is the best choice for your tow operation, it’s best to answer a question with several preceding questions: How much power do I need? + How often will I be jump starting? + What kind of access do I require? + How long do I want the jump starter to last, given my usage patterns?

f you want to ultimately land on the right product for your operation, it is really critical to get a handle on the answers to these questions at the start of your consideration process and product search journey. This is because every tow operation is different, which means the right jump starter can be different from one operation to the next. Taking the time to pinpoint your specific needs will help you make the best decision.

What is My Power Requirement?

This is almost always the first question that comes up. The answer, of course, depends on the types of vehicles you need to start, the weather conditions in which you are jump starting and the condition of the vehicles you will be starting.

Suffice it to say that the larger the vehicles to be started, the colder the temperatures you operate in and the worse overall vehicle conditions are, the more power you will need.

A good rule of thumb is that if you are planning to start mostly passenger vehicles, even in cold weather, a jump starter that can supply 400 Cranking Amps (30 seconds, 32˚F, 7.2V or higher terminal voltage) of power should suffice. If your service footprint extends to larger vehicles or you operate in areas that experience extremely cold weather, you’ll want to focus on higher output units.

These fundamental facts are true no matter the type of jump starter you choose. So, if you are interested in a lithium battery powered jump www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

55

JUMP PACKS

starter, you still must ensure that you have sufficient power to turn over the types of vehicles you expect to encounter. Also, some power supplies are more or less sensitive to temperature than others. For instance, ultracapacitors deliver the same power whether the temperature is 70˚F or -25˚F. Lead acid jump starters are sensitive to cold temperatures, but not nearly as much as lithium-battery powered jump starters, which are typically more sensitive to temperature swings and may not be practical in severely cold situations.

Jump Starting Many Times per Day or Just Once Every Few Days?

Like your temperature situation, this one can really vary from one operation to the next. If you often perform jump starting tasks multiple times per day, your need for a reliable unit with high reserve capacity is much more acute than an operation that jump starts only once every few days. Reserve capacity is essentially how deep the well is in the jump starter’s power supply capability. So, 56

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

you could have two jump starters that are equally rated in Peak Amps or even Cranking Amps, but have different reserve capacities. When operating a tow vehicle, reserve capacity is important – you want to be sure your jump starter can work as full a day as you do.

This is another area where capacitor driven models have an advantage. Since the capacitor can be fully recharged immediately after a successful jump start (less than 20 seconds), it is somewhat like having bottomless reserve capacity. So, if you are jumping more than 5+ vehicles per day, you may want to consider choosing this type of unit.

What Types of Vehicles Do I Need to Access?

As a tow operator, you know that vehicles come in many shapes and sizes, and that batteries and starting points can be located in some tricky spots. So, it is a great idea to factor for the specific vehicles that you encounter in your operation. This is true two ways. On larger vehicles, you are going to want to be sure to have

long enough cables to reach the battery / starting points in them. In addition, on vehicles with difficult to access batteries, you are often confronted with the need for extended reach to get to a good vehicle ground. This often requires 3+ feet of reach, depending on the design of the vehicle to be jumped.

How Long Do I Want/Require the Jump Starter to Last?

Again, this equation will vary for each user, based on their usage patterns, spend expectations and desire for value / longevity. But, regardless of the spend, everyone wants the products they purchase to last a reasonable length of time. Particularly in a towing operation, which could reasonably be described as an extreme environment, this factor comes into play in a big way.

Various products, based on their build method, will stand up to the demands of towing operation usage better than others. This should be accounted for.

Built for Jump Starting from the Ground Up The power supply (heart of the jump starter) is the most important contributor to jump starter performance.

It impacts everything from the jump starter’s maximum

POWER YOU CAN DEPEND ON.

New JNC770R Extra-long 68” cable reach makes easy work of the most difficult starting tasks.

Towing operations that employ Jump-N-Carry jump starters know that no starting task is too daunting.

They know from experience that every aspect of a Jump-N-Carry is designed to deliver extreme jump starting power, from the battery to the heavy-duty cables. Jump-N-Carry is all about power delivery.

For information on Jump-N-Carry jump starters, visit www.jumpstarter.com. www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

57

JUMP PACKS Similarly, the ultracapacitors used in our Jump-N-Carry capacitordriven jump starting solutions feature industrial grade construction that allows them to deliver up to 10,000 cycles of high-rate, high-performance discharge – exactly what’s needed to start the most obstinate vehicles.

Plus, our lithium-powered units utilize high discharge rate cells for maximum power and extensive safety features to make the jump starting event safer for the operator and the vehicle under service.

Also Pay Attention to the Power Path

boosting capacity, the number of jumps that can be performed per charge, the amount of time that the jump starter can sit between charges, its ability to withstand abuse and the overall service life of the unit.

The ES Series (Booster PAC) and Clore PROFORMER (Jump-N-Carry) batteries in our lead acid and lithium jump starting solutions are specifically designed to optimally address vehicle jump starting applications.

They are designed to deliver exceptional power in a quick, concentrated burst. And, they have numerous enhancements that serve a single purpose: deliver the power you need, even in extreme conditions, over and over again.

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Beyond the battery, it is important to remember that an investment in battery power and reserve capacity doesn’t make any difference if we can’t get all of that energy to the vehicle. That’s where the Power Path components come into play. These consist primarily of the output cables and battery clamps, but include the connections throughout the path as well.

Output cables must be sufficiently conductive to deliver the battery’s energy without introducing excessive resistance, which would result in a voltage drop, diminishing the jump starter’s capacity to start the vehicle. The more powerful the battery, the greater the requirement on the output cables.

Clore Automotive output cables are specifically mated to the battery power of each jump starter to ensure optimal results. They are extremely durable, flexible in cold temperatures and resistant to vehicle fluids and chemicals. Like our cables, our clamps feature industrial strength components and are specifically mated to the power of each jump starter.

In this way, everything is working together to deliver optimal professional performance.

You work hard. Having a jump starter that you know is going to work every time you grab it is more than peace of mind. It saves time, makes your life easier and makes you money out there on the road. Investing in a quality tool is just that – an investment. And, that investment, if done right, will pay you back many times over.

DEALERS PLACE

OF SERVICE T U O IS CK U TR R U YO SE U O JUST BECA UR COMPANY IS TO

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Stock # D5364 - 2022 Dodge 4500, Cummins, 4x4, Jerr-Dan MPL-NGS Self Loader

Eastern Wrecker Sales Inc is the oldest active Jerr-Dan Corp distributor in the nation and we also proudly offer the Landoll line of transportation products, trailers tough enough to move the world. Since 1969. We have one of the largest inventories of new and used tow trucks, carriers, and trailers in the nation and a full parts and service facility. Financing is available, and the process is easy.

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TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

800-288-0839 COLUMBUS | 800-288-0849 MARIETTA

2023 Peterbilt 567, 455 HP Paccar MX13, TX12 ATM, equipped w/15 ton Jerr-Dan 30 x 96 Low Profile Transporter

2023 Peterbilt 536, 300 HP Paccar PX7, Allison Auto 2023 Kenworth T880, 450 HP Cummins X15, Allison equipped 6 ton Jerr-Dan 22’ x 102” XLP steel carrier 4500 RDS Auto, equipped 15 ton Jerr-Dan 28’ x 96” Low Profile Transporter

2022 Ram 5500 4x4, 360 HP Cummins ISB 6.7, Aisin Auto, equipped w/loaded Jerr-Dan MPL40 Twin Line and Tunnel Box

2023 Hino L6-25,950 Ext, 260 HP Cummins ISB 6.7, Allison Auto, equipped w/6 ton Jerr-Dan 22’ x 102” XLP steel carrier

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Be Sure to Check Out our Complete Inventory Online

www.McMahonTrucks.com Visit our 2nd Columbus location 1305 US 42, London, OH 43140

Paul Blackston, Equipment Sales pblackston@mcmahontrucks.com (740) 215-9012 David Long, Outside Parts Sales - Columbus dlong@mcmahontrucks.com (614) 907-6206 Ryan Secoy, Parts Sales - Marietta rsecoy@mcmahontrucks.com M: 614-252-3111 C: 740-215-90122

DEALERS PLACE

IF YOU HAD TAKEN THIS SPACE, YOUR INVENTORY WOULD NOW BE SEEN BY OVER 37,000 OWNERS AND WOULD ALSO BE AVAILABLE TO MILLIONS MORE ONLINE.

“Pro’s that need to know and are on the go!”

Your voice for the Towing Industry Find us everywhere podcasts are available.

Bringing the latest in technology, products and services. Giving you the information needed to grow your Business!!

New episodes weekly!

PODCAST

Find us on or www.towprofessional.com

SPONSORED BY: LIVE FROM THE TOW PROFESSIONAL STUDIO 62

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

Market PLACE

Personalized By Tracy

facebook.com/personalizedbytracy Customized LED Wall Art and other handcrafted towing related items and so much more!

call or text 586-843-8892 Or find me on social media

DowntimeClaims.com Transportation Lawyers • Business Interruption Claims • Wrecker Accidents • Insurance Claims • Loss of Use/Lost Income

NATIONWIDE DOWNTIME 1-800-DOWNTIME & PROPERTY DAMAGE RECOVERY info@downtimeclaims.com

IF YOU HAD TAKEN THIS SPACE, YOUR AD WOULD NOW BE LOOKED AT BY OVER 37,000 OWNERS AND WOULD ALSO BE AVAILABLE TO MILLIONS MORE ONLINE.

www.towprofessional.com | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | TOW PROFESSIONAL

63

ADVERTISER INDEX COMPANY

PG

Alliance Funding.................................. 41

COMPANY

COMPANY

PG

Hal Kresser........................................... 63

PG

Recovery Billing................................... 30

Hide-a-Lift.............................................

Robert Young........................................ 62 N E X T D I G I TA L Q U A R T E63R LY

Ascentium Capital............................... 35 Austin Hinds......................................... 59

Hino ......................................................BC

RP Consulting....................................... 45

Towing Dispatch.....................

46 RV Wheel.............................................. 63 Tow Professional isHolly’s proud to announce Awards & More................................... 49 INA Towing Network.......................... 24 our new Digital Interactive Quarterly! Steck Mfg.............................................. 42 Austin Insurance................................. 45

OLD

AZUGA..................................................... 5

Interline Risk Services....................... 43

Survivor Fund Museum ad...........32-33

Clore....................................................... 57

International Towing &

The Will-Burt Company...................... 46

Collins Dollies.....................................IBC

Recovery Museum.............................. 21

Towbook............................................ 3, 31

Curbside SOS....................................... 25

Towing & Recovery

Custer Products................................... 26

Jerr-Dan.............................................. IFC Quarterly Lodar...................................................... 31

Custom Built......................................... 29

Marking Pen Depot............................. 63

Towmate.................................................. 1

Dynamic................................................ 37

MCS Mobile Control Systems........... 49

Tracked Machines.............................. 15

Q1

Professionals of NC............................ 23

Now your Editorial and Advertising can become interactive CW Mill Equipment ............................ 41 McMahon............................................. 61 Towtrax ................................................. 51 with links & videos combined with the convenience of mobility!

Tow Professional Quarterly Digital Edition Eastern Wrecker Sales......................

60 Mobile Video Computing

TRAO...................................................... 19

• Associates...........................

Comes out 4 times a year Eckert & 63 Solutions............................................... 13 Traxero................................................... 27 • Mobile and accessible for readers to use and for towers on the go.

ESA...........................................................

7 OnlineImpoundAuctions.................... 42 Tru-Hitch............................................... 43 • Editorial and Ads are interactive with the use of Links and Videos to show more information and direct readers to your website.

Flow Stop..............................................

47 ParkingPass.com................................ 41 Weiss Ins.............................................. 63 • Emailed to our 11,000 registered owners Go Light................................................. 27 Personalized by Tracy........................ 63 Worldwide Equipment........................ 11 • Promoted on Social Media: Facebook, Linked-In, as well as in our print publication.

HAAS Alert...........................................

Insurance ........................

Wrecker Rentals.................................. 60 • Easily Promoted on your17Social Progressive Media platforms through sharing...9 • Cost effective Full Page and Half Page sizes.

Editorial N E XCoverage T D I G I TA L QUARTER 1

Q UA R T E RCost LYFor Full Year FULL PAGE

Towing Software and Lighting

Specs: Tow Professional is proud to announce QUARTER 2 Price: $ 3,000 our new Digital5thInteractive Rotators, Heavy Equipment, Wheel Attachments,Quarterly!

Wheel-Lifts and HALF PAGE Repo Equipment

QUARTER 3

Insurance and Financing

QUARTER 4

Q2

Quarterly Hazmat, Spill Control, Lock-out Equipment, GPS and Telematics

Specs: Price: $ 2,000

All ads and editorial must have links to websites and this includes videos.

Now your Editorial and Advertising can become interactive Be sure to ask about how to become a part of our Suppliers Directory and Feature Product Editorial. with links & videos combined with the convenience of mobility!

Tow Professional Quarterly Tow ProfessionalDigital Quarterly Edition EditionDigital Featured Supplier • Comes out 4 times a year Directory Q2 2021 TP Q2 FEATURED SUPPLIERS & DIRECTORY

TP Q2

FEATURED PRODUCTS

2021

60-65 Word Product Description & REPO EQUIPMENT Editorial and Ads are• interactive with the use of Links WHEEL andLIFTS Videos to show more• information and Image Product or Service DYNAMIC “PYTHON” Company Logo • Contact Email Link direct readers to your • website.

Phone Number • Website Link Emailed to our 11,000 owners • registered Contact Email Link Website Link Promoted on Social •Media: Facebook, Linked-In, as well as in our print publication.

2 FEATURED • 25-30 Word Company FEATURED SUPPLIER’S DIRECTORY • Mobile and accessible for readers to use and for towers on the go.

PRODUCTS PREMIUM SUPPLIERS Description Quarterly

Quarterly

•

Tow Professional Quarterly Digital Edition Featured Products •

ROTATORS, HEAVY EQUIPMENT, WHEEL LIFT & REPO EQUIPMENT

JERR-DAN

Headquartered in Hagerstown, Maryland, we proudly manufacture our vehicles in McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania. Jerr-Dan believes there are few professions that can match the heart and soul of a tow owner/operator.

(800) 926-9666

info@jerrdan.com | www.jerrdan.com

• • • •

Custom Built

Dynamic Towing Equipment Manufacturing

Dynamic created the Original Self-Loading Wheel-Lift that has become the most sought after technology in the towing industry.

(757) 624-1360

anthonydynamic@mac.com | www.dynamicmfg.com

Austin Hinds Motors, Inc.

Custom Built Manufacturing was founded by Derek Dangelo, owner of Dangelo’s Auto Body and Repairs.. Custom Built opened with a focus on manufacturing the highest quality, custom heavy duty wreckers for the towing industry.

Let Austin Hinds Motors show you how easy it is to buy a quality new or used car in Arab . We believe fair prices, superior service, and treating customers right leads to satisfied repeat buyers.

(800) 540-5151

(256) 586-8161

info@custombuiltmfg.com | www.custombuiltmfg.com

McMahon Truck Centers of Columbus

www.austinhindsmotors.com

Rick’s Truck & Equipment

4-YEAR WARRANTY 5000LB FULLY EXTEND WHEEL LIFT 8000LB TOW RATING 82 INCHES OF REACH 25 DEGREES OF POWER AND NEG TILT

OUR Customers have been asking for a unit that would: • Lift faster & higher • Provide better weight transfer • Have the sleek appearance of the Lightning Body design • Have large tool boxes and easy access to hydraulics.

Easily Promoted on your Social Media platforms through sharing...

Cost effective Full Page and Half Page sizes.

Is your full-service headquarters for commercial truck solutions. We offer an extensive inventory for commercial truck sales, leasing and rentals, as well as comprehensive parts, maintenance solutions, and financing options to ensure the best selection, repair and service experience. info@mcmahontrucks.com I www.mcmahontrucks.com

Rick’s Truck and Equipment offers a wide selection of competitively-priced vehicles as well as parts and service. Call us today and let our professional staff help you find what you’re looking for.

(800) 639-4537

www.ricksrollbacks.com

43 | Tow Professional | Q2 21 | www.towprofessional.com

OPTIONS

PLASTIC POLY FENDER WHICH ARE LIGHTER, YET STRONGER AND WILL NEVER RUST 8000LB RAMSEY WINCH STAINLESS STEEL PYLON

For more infomation, visit: www.dynamicmfg.com or anthonydynamic@mac.com.

38 | Tow Professional | Q2 21 | www.towprofessional.com

Call 205-223-4548 or email, Darian Weaver at darian@towprofessional.com Editorial Coverage QUARTER 1 64

Towing Software and Lighting

TOW PROFESSIONAL | Volume 12 • Issue 3 | www.towprofessional.com

QUARTER 2

Rotators, Heavy Equipment, 5th Wheel Attachments, Wheel-Lifts and

Cost For Full Year WWW.TOWPROFESSIONAL.COM FULL PAGE

Specs: Price: $ 3,000

The perfect sidekick for our everyday heroes!

We’re here for you.

Thank you for choosing LIGHTEST in weight, yet GREATEST towing capacity - relief for both you and your customers Easier and safer loading in ALL-WEATHER and ALL-TERRAIN Increased serviceability SAVES repair costs Go the EXTRA mile

(541) 774-9220 collinsmfgcorp.com

.

THE TRUCK IS JUST THE BEGINNING.

When you POWER ON your new Hino truck, our journey with you is just beginning. That’s because every MY24 Hino Trucks comes standard with an industry exclusive Allison 5-Year Transmission Warranty, 24/7 HinoWatch, and Hino Edge Connected Vehicle Solution. Why? Because taking care of you and your truck is what we call the ULTIMATE OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE.

WWW.HINO.COM