Tow truck drivers are exploiting distressed motorists in car accidents, urging them to relinquish their vehicles only to then demand hefty fees for their retrieval.
A woman from Southern California recently experienced this firsthand, being charged over $3,000 to get her car back from a tow yard after falling prey to a scam, as reported by ABC7.
Brittany Williams stated she was involved in a crash when a tow truck driver appeared before she could reach out to either the police or her insurance provider.
The driver claimed he had been called by law enforcement and convinced her to surrender her vehicle.
“He was saying stuff like, ‘Let me help you,'” Williams recounted. “He started offering a quote and said there would be no charge. Accidents happen all the time, and he was just there to assist. The police contacted him for help.”
After signing what she thought was necessary paperwork and retrieving her car, she later learned the driver was actually not working with the police. When she attempted to reach him, the call was disconnected.
Determined, she located her car at a tow yard and returned there with police to reclaim it. After signing the necessary documents, she was left with a bill of $3,000 which she now must deal with.
She described the ordeal as a “nightmare.” Authorities are currently working to identify the tow truck driver involved.
Last summer, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office cautioned Southern California residents about similar “tow truck robberies.”
“If you’re in an accident, be aware that some tow truck operators may try to take advantage of your situation. These ‘tow truck robbers’ will often monitor police radio and arrive quickly, presenting themselves as helpful,” the DA’s office noted.
“Once they tow your vehicle, they frequently impose outrageous fees or withhold the car until those fees are paid. This practice is both a scam and illegal.”
Lieutenant Scott Moffitt from the Los Angeles Police Department offered some advice on how to avoid falling victim to these scams.
“Often, victims are asked to sign blank forms or bills, which we strongly advise against,” he said.
He suggested being cautious if a tow truck driver refuses to take the car to the location of the owner’s choice—this is a major red flag, he warned. Additionally, it’s smart to look for clear identification on the tow truck and, if possible, take photos of the driver and license plate for your records.
