American Towman Magazine - April 2023

The Walkaround

Spring Fever

Dennie Ortiz Publisher

For most of the country spring is usually the time of life resurfacing from winter’s dormancy. In the towing industry, spring is the season that welcomes the emergence of thousands of towers with plans to travel to industry trade shows—and the ATShowPlace-Las Vegas is timed perfectly for their arrival.

Be sure to visit us, at the South Point Hotel  Casino on May 16 & 17, to meet with over 130 towing sup-

pliers, attend one-of-a-kind conferences and enjoy American Towman’s legendary hospitality, and that of Las Vegas too.

Are you looking right now for information on suppliers that you can trust and help your company succeed? Well, go ahead and peruse the Buyers Report section on pages 49-63, where towers give you their own opinions on a multitude of services and products to support your business.

You’ve read it before in these pages, and you’ll read it again this month—the importance of being an active industry advocate. Brian Riker, Towman’s legislative guru, runs down the accomplishments achieved, and important congressional connections made at the recent Legislative Action Workshop, presented by TRAA in Washington D.C. Brian breaks down the issues that are currently developing which you need to keep your eyes on.

For readers who care to delve into the recovery side of the business, Terry Abejuela’s article in our new Hands-On Tech department will not disappoint. Terry addresses various anchoring techniques which will lead you to successful recovery jobs.

The photo featured on our cover showcases tower Eduardo Martinez, battered by rain as he secures a recovered casualty on the side of a busy California Freeway. Be sure to take pleasure in George Nitti’s retelling of this challenging job.

If you are towing and storing damaged electrical vehicles, then you must read Part II of Ed Grubbs EV coverage. Not only does Ed shares many critical precautions to be taken in your storage yard, he also warns of the additionally high costs associated with EV towing you could incur.

Hope you enjoy reading this issue.

As always, be safe out there!

Electric Wreckers?

Steve Temple Editor

American Towman magazine hosts three towing industry trade shows each year, we also attend other events. Recently the NTEA show covered a broad array of commercial vehicles and equipment, including a big emphasis in recent years on electrification (EVs). The EV trend is rapidly expanding for both passenger cars and commercial trucks (and poses some challenges for towers as noted in our Electric Storm follow-

up article in this issue). We have yet to see, however, an electric wrecker. Electric roadside service vans or final-mile medium-duty delivery trucks that run in a closed-loop route are conceivable applications. But limited driving range is still an issue for all types of electric trucks, especially when towing or hauling a heavy load. We did note some improvements in rated mileage, and technology will likely continue to advance in this aspect. In the meantime, however, for tow businesses there’s simply no substitute yet for the pulling power of a conventional internal combustion engine that enable towmen to get their jobs done safely and efficiently.

Dennie Ortiz

Steve Calitri

Steve Temple

Randall Resch

Terry Abejuela

David Kolman

John Borowski

Mark Lacek

Brian Riker

George Nitti

Henri “Doc” Calitri

President Editor-In-Chief Editor Operations Editor Field Editor, West Chassis Editor Safety Editor Repo Run Editor

Contributing Editor

Contributing Editor

Contributing Editor

Editorial Board

Tommy Anderson

Roy Carlson

Debbie Collins

Belinda Harris

Bill Johnson

Kurt Wilson

Dallas, Texas Saint Paul, Minn. Las Vegas, Nev. Greensboro, N.C. South Hadley, Mass. Creve Coeur, Ill.

American Towman Staff

Anne Ruzsilla

Dennie Ortiz

Ellen Rosengart

Henri Calitri

Peggy Calabrese

Ryan Oser

Emily Oz

Art Director

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Ford Patents Repo System

Ford Motor has devised a system that will aid in repossessing a vehicle, having filed a patent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that details a self-repossessing system along with other repo-related effects.

Using computer technology that can potentially involve a lending institution, police authorities and repo agencies, a vehicle can be locked down to prevent an owner from accessing or using it. The patent filed details processes of recovery.

At first, the vehicle owner is notified of being late on payments. Then, if there’s no response to the messages, Ford’s repo system escalates to disabling vehicle functions such as air-conditioning, cruise control, power seats, power windows or radio. Additional measures including playing irritating or incessant sounds through the stereo system, or even locking out the vehicle owner.

If autonomous systems are present, the vehicle could be moved to a location for a tow truck to pick it up. Commands could be sent to have the car drive itself to a repo lot, bank, and even a junkyard if the car is deemed to be not worth the cost of the repo.

Sources: caranddriver.com motor1.com

Philadelphia Towing Plateless Cars

Philadelphia’s Parking Authority (PPA) has authorized towing vehicles with missing license plates and obscured VIN numbers.

“Is your vehicle parked on a public street without a license plate?” asked a read a tweet from @PhilaParking. “You might want to change that ASAP.”

The PPA, under the new leadership of executive director Richard Lazer, says its aggressive approach is in response to a “dramatic increase” in the practice in neighborhoods throughout the city.

Lazer said parking on a public street without a license plate is a violation of the Philadelphia Traffic Code, and covering the VIN “signals a clear intent to prevent our parking enforcement officers from issuing a parking violation.”

Source:inquirer.com

Virginia Tow Bill Permits Surcharge

Virginia lawmakers have passed a bill, HB 1649, that would allow towing operators from local municipalities to add a $20 fuel surcharge, on top of the $150 that can be charged for nonconsensual tows.

The $20 surcharge is a compromise, as it was $30 when introduced in the House by Del. Scott Wyatt, R-Hanover. Wyatt and supporters testified that small businesses are paying more to fill their vehicles’ gas tanks.

“I would never have thought this bill to assist small family-owned businesses would create so much debate in committees and both bodies,” said Wyatt during a Feb. 23 floor vote. “These small businesses are just trying to pay their employees a little more during tough economic times.”

Michael Croker, of Shanks Towing South, was one of several bill supporters during this year’s session who said that increasing costs were driving the surcharge.

“The largest expense is payroll, and second largest is fuel, which has more than doubled in the last three years,” Croker pointed out at the Feb. 2 House Transportation Committee meeting.

The bill passed the House with a 5045 vote, with a 21-19 vote in the Senate, and requires Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s signature, in order to be in effect through July 1, 2024.

Sources: wtop.com virginiamercury.com

Houston Towers Aid Domestic Violence Program

Wrecker companies in the Houston area have joined forces with several entities to help victims of domestic violence by providing bags filled with necessities. On-Site Towing President Mark Denson said that his crews see it all: abusers dismantling cars, slashing tires, or simply stealing keys.

“A lot of times, they’re getting out because they’re in immediate danger,” he pointed out. “They don’t have time to grab hairspray, toothpaste, or deodorant. We’re providing that right there.”

Harris County precinct constable said that these wrecker companies are a godsend. His office teamed up with the wrecker community and Aids to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA) to create bags filled with useful items like food and hotel vouchers.

“Having wrecker drivers that are out there interacting with the public all the time, and often in some very

precarious situations where you have domestic violence victims in car accidents or out at a scene where law enforcement is already there, to be able to give them a bag with resources in it that can help them change their lives to get out of domestic violence is what this is all about,” says Constable Rosen.

Drivers who are part of the Tow-AWay domestic violence program each have a purple ribbon with a tow truck and Constable PCT 1 logo on their trucks.

Source: click2houston.com

Onsite-Towing President Mark Denson displays T-shirt bearing the Tow-Away Domestic Violence Ribbon.

A towing bill narrowly passed the Virginia legislature granting tow companies the ability to add a fuel surcharge to nonconsensual tows.

Towers Gain a Partial Victory in Milwaukee

Towers Protest

Proposed Arkansas Legislation

A convoy of tow trucks drove in opposition to a house bill that was filed in the Arkansas State Legislature, encircling the roadways around the Capitol building and congesting traffic. The protest was in response to a bill that would strip towing companies of the ability to put a lien on cargo if their services were not rendered.

House Bill 1563 would amend the law concerning the attachment of a possessory lien held by a towing and storage firm to include “Cargo,” which is defined to include pallets, containers, bracing, air pillows, tiedown assemblies, chocks and all other dunnage or packaging.

The bill maintains that companies keeping this cargo until bills get paid are causing supply chain issues and “inflicting harm to national and state economies.”

In contesting this bill, Tow owner Matthew Ross, legislative chair for the Arkansas Towing and Recovery Board, stated that, “It takes an awful lot of capital investment to efficaciously perform these recoveries…This bill robs from us the ability to hold on to the items that allow us to get paid for our services.”

Ken Pence, owner of Ken’s Towing said, “Most Trucking Companies like owner operators or small companies are either not insured or under-insured and the cargo is the only thing of value! They do not understand that we are out a lot of money upfront on these types of accidents that include labor, special equipment, traffic control, fuel, etc.”

Sources: towforce.net

Tow Truck Safety Bill Moves Forward in Washington Legislature

Senate Bill 5023, proposed by Washington state Sen. Jeff Wilson, would allow tow truck drivers to use flashing blue lights while at the scene of an accident to increase their visibility to drivers. It also requires drivers on highways or other high-speed roads to reduce their speed below 50 mph while passing a tow truck in an emergency zone.

“This is about the safety of those drivers who are responding and us, everyday people that need those services, who need to be safe while we are in our

cars along the roadway,” Wilson said. The bill is unofficially named after the drivers who were killed in 2021, Arthur Anderson, owner of Longview’s Affordable Towing, and Raymond Mitchell, who worked for Ridgefield’s TLC Towing.

Source: columbian.com

An ordinance that has been in effect since 2019 for Milwaukee towers was overturned by the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. No longer will towing companies be required to report the cost and equipment used for nonconsensual tows, including private property tows.

Calling it a “partial victory,” attorney Emil Ovbiagele said, “There is no ordinance or any law that I’m aware of in the city, and probably the state level, where businesses are required to perpetually just share their private internal data.” He challenged the ordinances for his client Jason Phehowski, owner of Always Towing.

The three-judge appeals court panel ruled that the city’s reporting requirement is in legal conflict with the state statute that requires towing companies to call the local police department before towing to confirm the vehicle isn’t stolen and to provide a record of where it will be taken.

However, the appeals court left in place the drop-fee policy which requires tow truck operators to allow those about to be towed from both private and public property to pay a $50 fee to “drop” the vehicle if the owner spots their vehicle being prepared to be towed before it is “fully hooked up.”

The court ruled that the city’s drop-fee policy is not preempted by state law and does not violate the spirit of, conflict with, or defeat the state’s regulation of tow trucks.

“Rather, we conclude that the dropfee ordinance falls into a gap in state law where the owner or authorized operator of the vehicle to be towed arrives before the tow of the vehicle occurs,” said the decision.

Ovbiagele noted that his client’s objection to the drop-fee policy wasn’t the fee itself, but the alleged dangerous situations it creates during the process. He said tow operators are vulnerable to angry vehicle owners and must wait at the scene because of the policy.

Source: urbanmilwaukee.com

A column of more than 100 tow trucks clogged roadways in protest of pending towing legislation.

A safety bill introduced by Sen. Jeff Wilson passed a floor vote in Washington’s state legislature.

Getting on the Grid

Jerr-Dan’s XLP Autogrid automatic wheel grid option introduced in 2022 received a patent for both design and operation on January 31, 2023. Used on carriers and other tow vehicles, the Autogrid allows an operator to hook up a car quickly and easily without manually installing L-Arms. Engineered with the operator in mind, the grid design offers a 3,500 lb. rating and a crossbar that can rotate 90 degrees on either side of center. The grid pivot has a center detent bar that prevents excessive crossbar swing during setup. The grid center drop area is designed to provide better support for tires as well as less sidewall push. The long-term cost of ownership and product longevity are addressed with replaceable wear items that include crossbar ends, L-arm tips, and plates at strategic locations. In addition to these standard elements, Autogrid customers may choose from several add-on options including wireless remote control, a dual-camera system, and boom level stop.

The Cable Guy

Bolt’s Cable Lock deters theft of items on tow vehicles such as tools, rigging, and fuel containers. Made from six-foot long, 1/4-inch coiled cable, it features an automotive-grade lock shutter to keep out weather and debris, and a six-plate tumbler sidebar that prevents picking and bumping. Rugged and weatherproof, the Cable Lock not only secures expensive equipment but also has the added benefit of one-key technology that permanently codes to a truck’s ignition key. When it is inserted into the lock cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers align with the ignition key, eliminating the need to carry multiple keys.

boltlock.com

A TowMate for Towmen

Although wireless tow lights have been available for some time, TowMate has just introduced an upgraded version, the TM22XR. It boasts a number of improvements, such as a battery life of more than 50 hours on a single charge, plus a quick-reference battery level indicator. In addition, new and improved magnets provide a stronger 100-pound hold compared with those having a 90-pound pull. Rubber coated to protect from scratching a vehicle, the lightweight design of the TM22XR makes it easy to handle and maneuver while working. Made in the U.S.A., the TM22XR comes with a lifetime warranty on both the LEDs and electronics.

Speaking Out

Towers Voice Their Key Issues on Capitol Hill

By Brian J Riker

Working on your business, not in it, is more than just a platitude. It’s an ongoing effort. Successful business owners understand that there is more to owning a business than just mastering a set of skills to provide a service to the public. In towing, many of us began as operators and have mastered those specific skills, yet as we grow, we fail to develop other skills necessary to growing a business. Perhaps the most important of those skills are delegation and communication. A prime example of how both of these skills play important roles in growth was on full display during the 5th annual Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day event presented by the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA) on March 7 to 9 in Washington, DC. Towers from across America descended upon Capitol Hill to represent the industry and speak out on important issues facing us today.

Over 42 towers from 23 states, plus

representatives from 19 state towing associations, participated in over 65 meetings with members of Congress and their staff. This large group of towmen pointed out the importance of a number of issues. These included education about the Slow Down Move Over (SDMO) laws, critical size and weight relief, opposition of mandatory speed limiters on commercial vehicles, and the importance of including tow operators’ needs as plans for electric and autonomous vehicles are being developed.

BEING HEARD

So why is this important? While it seems like nothing ever happens in Congress, when it does it can often be detrimental to small businesses— unless we speak up. Speaking up is working on, not in, your business. If we do not let our voice be heard, we have no say in what happens to us. This is where active participation in your state and national association is critical. While there is power in

numbers, nothing reinforces your association’s messaging better than individual constituents talking to the legislators about their own personal experiences, and how a proposed law or regulation will affect them and their employees.

The recent TRAA event in Washington, DC highlights how the average tow business owner can make a huge difference. Towers come from all walks of life, many different backgrounds and both sides of the political aisle, yet we all have one thing in common: the love of the towing industry and the desire to see our fellow towers succeed. This unified message resonates loudly with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

LEGISLATORS SEEK OUT TOWERS

TRAA, and its lobbyist group Tremont Strategies Group, orchestrated an impressive display of key members of Congress, both Democrat and Republican, that were

Brian J. Riker is a third-generation towman, with 26 years of experience in the ditch as a tow operator, and president of Fleet Compliance Solutions. He specializes in helping navigate the complex world of federal and state transportation regulatory compliance. He can be reached at brian.riker@fleetcompliancesolutions.net

willing to take time away from their day and come to see the attendees at the Kimpton George Hotel. This gathering speaks volumes about how important the towing industry has become; they were willing to come to us instead of insisting we go to them. With seven offices represented, all members of key transportation related committees in Congress, towing’s issues were well received.

The keynote speaker was a returning champion and dear friend of the industry, Representative James McGovern (D-MA-02). Ranking Member of the powerful House Committee on Rules, Congressman McGovern’s support of the industry is critical to our success with events like these. Sponsoring a second National Move Over Law Resolution in Congress, McGovern works tirelessly to promote education on important safety issues facing the towing industry. The Congressman also has worked closely with Congressman Pappas in the past to have a size and weight exemption

included in the House Infrastructure Bill that would have granted much needed relief to towers everywhere.

DEVELOPING RELATIONSHIPS

A large part of these types of events is educational. With the 118th Congress just beginning to get to work the timing of this event could not have been more perfect. With the delay in setting leadership within the 118th Congress and committee membership selections, towers

Keynote speaker Representative James McGovern works tirelessly to promote education on important towing safety issues.

Bringing individual voices together ensures that they are heard loud and clear.

were given the opportunity to speak with several Freshmen members, both Representatives and Senators, before many other groups had the chance to muddy the waters. This early education is important in developing relationships and becoming the go-to person on issues important to the industry.

These Freshmen all connected with the room, sharing common experiences from their professional past with several others very familiar with the transportation industry in general and the towing industry specifically. Congressman Mike Collins, (R-GA-10) who serves on the House Infrastructure Committee, owns a large trucking company, related well with the towing audience, recognizing the critical role we play in maintaining the nation’s highway system.

Another Freshman Representative, Marc Molinaro (RNY-19), also serving on the House Transportation and Infrastructure committee and the House Committee on Small Business, really connected with the towers in attendance. Serving as a volunteer firefighter for the last 29 years, Molinaro has worked alongside many towers on

crash scenes and truly understands the struggles towmen face as the only private sector responder on the roadway.

THE NEED FOR SIZE AND WEIGHT REFORM

A returning favorite, Congressman Chris Pappas (DNH-01) spoke to towers from his perspective as a small business owner. A champion of the towing and trucking industries, Congressman Pappas continues to support SDMO education, removing burdensome regulations on the towing industry and just recently co-sponsored a Bill designed to repeal the 12 percent Federal Excise Tax imposed on new trucks. This change would be a huge benefit to towers, given the rising cost of new equipment.

Congressman Pappas was key in getting TRAA’s size and weight reform included in the House Infrastructure Bill in 2021. Unfortunately, due to some lastminute negotiations, the final bill was stripped of these much-needed improvements, however this has not dampened Representative Pappas dedication to helping towers achieve much needed relief from burdensome regulations harmful to small businesses.

Speaking of size and weight issues, Megan Kenney, Legislative Assistant with Senator Deb Fischer’s (R-NE) office took time to come speak to the attendees, providing an update on where we stand with moving the size and weight legislation forward in the 118th Congress. She has met with the TRAA multiple times and has

dedicated countless hours on behalf of Senator Fischer, researching the issue and speaking with supporters and opponents alike, in order to achieve a workable compromise.

STRANGE BEDFELLOWS

Beyond relationships with members of Congress and their staff, relationships with other special interest groups and lobbyists are critical. It is often said that Washington, DC makes for strange bedfellows, and that was evidenced by two other special guest speakers. Collin Long, Director of Government Affairs with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and Brad Roseberry, President of the Coalition Against Bigger Trucks (CABT).

These organizations, especially OOIDA, have been at odds with towing in the past, yet have found common ground to come together. Recently the TRAA worked successfully with an OOIDA-led coalition to oppose mandatory insurance increases. These would have raised our costs without providing any benefits to towers regarding collecting payment on liability-only issues. The two associations are also working together to oppose mandatory speed

Congressman Pappas supported a size and weight exemption in the House Infrastructure Bill to grant much needed relief to towers.

Congressman Mike Collins, who serves on the House Infrastructure Committee, owns a large trucking company and relates well with towers.

limiters on commercial vehicles, another burdensome and dangerous regulation being proposed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

CABT and OOIDA generally oppose longer, heavier and bigger trucks due to infrastructure and safety concerns. Yet both groups have agreed to remain neutral on the towing industry’s request for much needed relief from the current size and weight limits imposed on interstate movement of combination vehicles. This unity is a huge win for the industry, leaving only the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials as the major resistance to size and weight relief. With some perseverance, and a lot of data collection, towing should be able to come to a workable compromise that allows us to service the vehicles already using our highways with the most modern, safe and effective tow trucks available today and into the future.

HEARTWARMING MESSAGES

Other speakers at the Hill Day Event included Dr. Scott Parr from the Transportation Research Board, addressing how highway design impacts responder safety. Also speaking on issues facing towing were James Austrich and James Tebo, Transportation ◀

Specialists with the Federal Highway Administration, both highlighting the importance of education and training for all roadway responders as well as the motoring public.

It was heartwarming to witness the well-rounded group of speakers, both from Capitol Hill and from

within the towing industry, willing to take time from their busy schedules to help educate the industry on how to better represent ourselves on Capitol Hill and effectively portray our message. It was even more exciting to see towing well received by the members of Congress and their staff. If you have not attended one of these events, or even if you have, please consider attending next year. Bringing individual voices together ensures that they are heard loud and clear.

Now, merely attending an annual event and speaking with your elected representatives once a year is not going to move the needle much, although it helps. As lobbyists, the

national association alone cannot speak for the industry. Lawmakers, whether local, state or federal, love to hear from their constituents, even from the other side of the aisle, and your voice carries much more weight than the professional representatives do.

That said, it takes more than one meeting with a staffer to become the voice on a specific set of issues. Local participation is key to becoming your lawmaker’s go-to person. Please take the time to visit your representatives when they are back in their home state, and stop by their local office and get to know their staff. Then followup by sending them personalized letters introducing yourself, your business and those that work for your team. This sort of personal contact really facilitates towers’ voices being heard when you speak out on issues affecting towmen.

Representative Marc Molinaro, having served as a volunteer firefighter for 29 years, has worked alongside many towers on crash scenes, and truly understands the struggles towmen face.

Tracking Towed Vehicles

Stay on the Straight and Narrow

By Randall C. Resch

Towed vehicles on a wheellift, sling, or straight bar must track in a straight line directly behind and in the path of the wrecker. For obvious reasons, the towed vehicle cannot sway, swing, travel, or steer out of the tow truck’s lane into oncoming traffic or parked vehicles.

Besides the risk of casualties and damage, there are legal aspects as well. The following incident drives home these points. A city cop was working street patrol in an urban

area surrounded by restaurants, shops, and large condominium complexes. At 7:00 pm, the beat activity was quiet. But from a driveway 100 yards ahead a wheellift wrecker emerged suddenly and didn’t yield to approaching traffic. The truck pulled onto the main thoroughfare with the towed vehicle swinging behind precariously, crooked and straddling another lane. With the wreckers’ speed far over the posted limit, it’s obvious somebody was in a hurry. There were no attached safety chains, no wheellift straps and no extension lights attached to the towed vehicle. In the officer’s eyes, this process appeared extremely hazardous and a traffic stop ensued.

As the wrecker continued down the road as though nothing’s wrong, the cop car’s piercing red and blue lights got the operator’s attention. In that, “Oh crap” moment, the wrecker and its awkwardly trailing vehicle edged towards the curb. When the wrecker rolled to a stop,

the towed vehicle was still hanging partially into the next lane. If you’re familiar with your state’s laws, you know what’s about to happen next.

MAKING A GETAWAY

From a traffic cop’s perspective, this practice is typically the result of towers hurrying to get a vehicle off-property when working private property impounds (PPIs), or during active repos. While a tower escaping from an agitated and angry vehicle owner might feel justified, vehicle code laws come into play for tow truck safety and the good of the motoring public.

This fast ‘n loose approach is clearly dangerous and can lead to creating additional collisions such as sideswiping parked and oncoming cars, or hitting bicyclists or even pedestrians. Such a violation disregards safety, and several other factors also draw an officer’s attention. Especially when beat cops are smart about wreckers and the state’s vehicle code.

WHIP SMART

Violating straight-tracking laws is a basis for citation when the infraction is obvious. As described in the above scenario, let’s say the initial causes for the stop included violation of right-of-way, speeding, and no headlights.

Following California’s Vehicle Code, Section 21711 specifically states that, “No person shall operate a train of vehicles when any vehicle being towed whips or swerves from side to side or fails to follow substantially in the path of the towing vehicle.”

There’s nothing confusing about California’s law and its specific

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

Don’t be that visual spectacle with a swerving vehicle in tow that draws attention from law enforcement.

wording. This law requires that towed vehicles are prepared by a mechanical procedure to remain in the path of the towing vehicle. When the officer approaches the driver of the wrecker, traffic enforcement likely is initiated. With an ensuing visual walk-around of the tow truck and towed vehicle, there is a good chance that a citation may include other violations, as noted below.

FOLLOW THE CODES

• Violation: No Safety Chains and Straps California Vehicle Code, Section 29004(a)(2) states that, “A vehicle towed by a wrecker shall be coupled to the wrecker by means of at least two safety chains in addition to the primary restraining system. The safety chains shall be securely affixed to the truck frame,

bed, or towing equipment, independent of the towing sling, wheel-lift, or under-reach towing equipment.”

• Violation: No Extension Lights California Vehicle Code, Section 24605(a) states; “Tow Cars used to tow a vehicle shall be equipped with and carry a tail lamp, a stop lamp, turn signal lamps, and a portable electrical extension cord for use in displaying the lamps on the rear of a towed vehicle.” (Note: In California and other states, the use of only running lights or four-way flashers doesn’t comply with this law.)

• Techniques for Compliance

Depending on the tow vehicle’s method of mechanical drive and steering, when a vehicle is towed from the rear, the vehicle’s steering wheel must be secured straight ahead,

where wheels are in-line with the towing vehicle’s sides.

TIPS ON TRACKING

So before starting out in traffic, here are the following steps to ensure straight tracking. Predetermine if the vehicle is all-wheel, front-wheel, or rear-wheel drive systems. Only rearwheel drive vehicles should be towed backwards on non-drive wheels.

If the ignition key is available, straighten the steering and turn the ignition off until the column locks. This practice ensures that the steering is pointed straight ahead.

Even when the column is locked, tie the steering straight ahead with any of the following items: a length of rope, motorcycle tie-strap, the vehicle’s seat belt, floppy fan belt, or a commercially designed steering wheel device.

Never trust a vehicle’s steering wheel and lock to hold on its own

mechanical merit. Steering wheel locks have been known to break under frontal load. A vehicle’s locking ignition may come loose under the vehicle’s weight during travel. As most of today’s vehicles are made of lightweight plastic parts and thinnish metals, an unsecured steering column doesn’t have sufficient tensile strength to maintain weight of a lifted vehicle.

When a vehicle is on a wheel-lift or sling, and towed on its rear wheels, it’s recommended to lock the column, tie the steering, or employ a steering wheel seat device to keep the wheels straight ahead while towing. That’s because wheel-lift pivots, by design, rotate and may cause the towed vehicle’s wheels to drop between the L-Bar openings or the wheel lift’s scoops.

HELLO DOLLIES

To eliminate the visual, illegal presence of tracking outside the wrecker’s path, throwing dollies are the best solution for locked and turned steering. While the lack of dollies is one way towers get off-property quickly before a vehicle’s owner arrives, the officer writing a straighttracking citation has enforcement in mind and doesn’t care about tow-related excuses.

Professional tow companies require operators to attach all appropriate safety equipment to towed vehicles prior to departing the tow location. While a tower’s urgency to get off-property and avoid potential confrontation is understandable, most police officers won’t be lenient when writing a multiviolation citation.

It takes only a couple of minutes to be in compliance with straight-tracking laws. It’s that visual non-compliance that gets towers in trouble. When tow operators protest, “The yard is only a couple of miles away,” that doesn’t justify conducting a dicey tow.

LICENSE POINTS

If you’re that tower who sidesteps state law, it’s a matter of time before a hazard citation finds you. In the scenario presented above, it’s likely a citation will be written. From a risk management standpoint, a tower receiving this type of citation could end up with excessive points stacking up on the operator’s MVR. Too many points could result in the tower being removed from the company’s insurance policy.

Failing to attain straight-track ◀

compliance is a more severe violation where police officers making the stop have probable cause to inquire if the operator might be under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, medical marijuana, or other illegal substance. When towers knowingly allow a towed vehicle to stray outside the path of the towed vehicle, they’re creating an obvious violation that could result in increased DUI enforcement. Where probable cause exists, that too could lead to the operator’s arrest and impound of their wrecker.

It’s all easily avoided by simply straightening the towed vehicle’s steering. Don’t be that visual spectacle where your negligent actions draw attention to law enforcement. If keys aren’t available to enhance the process, the best option; throw dollies or request a carrier.

Throwing dollies on private property impounds is a least favorite technique that creates slow, additional work. Although it takes more time, doing so may result in the tower losing one’s job due to not being insurable.

As in anything towers do, there are severe consequences at the end of knowingly working outside the law. Be sure your towed vehicle is straight-tracking behind the towing truck and avoid wiping out a bunch of parked cars or another vehicle in traffic.

Anchoring Techniques

Plus Tips on Picking the Right Equipment

By Terry Abejuela

When performing vehicle recovery operations you must be able to securely anchor the recovery vehicle. You may need to use deadman anchors (any object buried in the ground that’s used as an anchor) to move the casualty vehicle to the location you desire. If you correctly calculate the load on the recovery vehicle and anchors, and ensure they are able to resist that load, then the casualty vehicle will move when winching effort is applied. So good anchoring techniques will help you achieve a safe and successful recovery.

The first thing to determine is the total amount of resistance to move the casualty vehicle. This step is critical to doing an effective recovery. Once you know the total amount of resistance, you will be able to figure out how much load will be applied to the truck and to your anchors, based on your rigging plan. When tow operators are asked

to recover a vehicle, the information obtained before arriving at the scene depends on what the customer is able to provide. The casualty vehicle description and condition, as well as scene description, are critical to choosing the correct recovery vehicle to send to the scene. Use probing questions to try to get as accurate a description as you can. Get detailed information about the casualty vehicle, terrain, slope, and surroundings such as trees, boulders, roadway conditions, and access. Also find out weather conditions, both current and at the time of disablement, and how far the casualty vehicle is from the roadway. These are all factors that may help you determine the type and size of the recovery vehicle that will be needed. Keep in mind, you will likely need to tow or transport the casualty vehicle once it has been recovered back to the roadway.

ALLOWING FOR MISINFORMATION

Unfortunately, the information we get from the customer is not always accurate, so we must be prepared to handle whatever situation we encounter. So the recovery wrecker should be capable of handling a little more than anticipated based on

the information from the customer. When the customer says the vehicle is just a little ways from roadway, be prepared for it to be well off the roadway, perhaps 50 feet, 100 feet, or even more.

In addition to choosing the proper

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

If a tree stump or trunk is used as anchor, secure the line as close to the ground as possible.

Avoid damage by using wide synthetic straps and placing lumber between the strap and the tree.

sized wrecker, tow operators should also carry equipment that can be used to increase the anchor ability of the recovery vehicle.

Any anchoring techniques used to secure the tow truck need to be in compliance with the recovery equipment manufacturers’ recommended procedures. In general you should be able to produce about 60 to 70 percent of the recovery vehicle’s gross vehicle weight in anchor ability. This of course is dependent on the type of surface the recovery vehicle is in contact with, and the type of anchoring devices you are able to utilize.

PROPER PROCEDURES

Most towing and recovery vehicles are designed to perform recovery work from the rear of the truck. Some are equipped with outriggers that increase the stability of the truck during side pulls. Some are equipped with rear spades to increase anchor ability when pulling from the rear. Make sure the rear spades are designed for anchor ability—not for vertical lifting. Using jack legs designed for vertical lifting to anchor the truck in a heavy rear or side pull may damage the jack legs.

Tow and recovery vehicles are often equipped with a supplemental brake system. In addition to the chassis manufacturer’s parking brake, some tow and recovery vehicles will be equipped with a supplemental braking system such as a Mico lock. This device is a oneway, hydraulic check valve installed on the chassis brake master cylinder that allows the operator to apply the service brakes during a recovery operation. The parking brake should always be used in conjunction with the Mico Lock.

Since Mico locks are hydraulic there is a possibility they can bleed off. Mico Lock makes a warning device that will notify the operator

when the hydraulic pressure drops. It can be installed to activate the lights and or horn on the truck when

the hydraulic pressure is nearing an unsafe pressure.

The U.S. Army’s manual on recoveries illustrates how a deadman anchor can be constructed with either a log or steel beam and vertical timbers.

ADDITIONAL TECHNIQUES

Other methods to anchor the recovery vehicle include scotch blocks, wheel chocks, and lumber. Some recovery vehicles are designed to use scotch blocks. These vehicles have key slots on the rear tailboard which are inline with the rear axle dual wheels. Scotch blocks with a short length of chain attached to them can be placed behind the dual wheels and the chain attached to the key slot on the tailboard. Then the truck is backed up until the chain is tight and the dual wheels of the rear axle are on top of the scotch block. When the truck is pulled rearward the scotch block digs into the surface

to create more resistance. Avoid using scotch blocks on surfaces that will be damaged such as asphalt. They work best on dirt surfaces. When used on surfaces that may be damaged, use wheel chocks or lumber under the wheels to create more resistance. Elevating the recovery boom until the winch rope over the end of the boom creates an apex will apply more downforce on the rear axle of the truck, making the scotch blocks, wheel chocks or lumber more effective.

DEADMAN ANCHORS

When you are unable to create enough anchor ability in the recovery vehicle to overcome the total recovery resistance of the casualty, you may need to use

another anchor to move some of the resistance load to the anchor, thus reducing some of the load on the recovery vehicle. There are vehicle, natural and manmade anchors that can be used. Other vehicles and/ or equipment at the scene may be utilized as deadman anchors.

Of course, you would need to get permission from the owner of the vehicle or equipment prior to using them. As with the recovery vehicle, you can produce approximately 60 to 70 percent of the vehicles weight in anchor ability depending on the type of vehicle and the surface it is on. Generally a tracked vehicle will produce more resistance that a wheeled vehicle.

Containers at a construction site may be able to be used. Natural anchors include trees and boulders. If you utilize trees, make sure to get permission from the land owner. Choose trees with

A load-distribution plate, such as this one from Factor 55, provides additional attachment points for wire rope, along with a synthetic strap to a tree as a deadman anchor. If logs or rocks aren’t available for a deadman anchor, Off Road Consulting’s traction board is another option.

Some tow operators use tent stakes pounded in the ground and chained together.

large diameter trunks and attach lines to them as close to the ground as possible. Take precautions to avoid damage to the tree such as utilizing wide synthetic straps instead of chain, and placing lumber between the strap and/or chain and the tree.

Unfortunately trees are not labeled with a working load limit so it is difficult to determine how much load they can handle. Resistance can be increased by utilizing several trees located in close proximity to each other, and connecting them together

with multiple straps or using lumber between trees.

Manmade anchors include commercially sold and home-made anchors. Some tow operators use tent stakes pounded in the ground and chained together, or a metal plate with holes drilled through it so stakes can be pounded into the ground in several of the holes as anchors.

USING YOUR INGENUITY

When your recovery is in the city or on a freeway, there may not be

any natural anchors available so you may need to think outside the box to accomplish your mission. Some tow operators utilize the K-rails when on the freeway, and no other option is available.

For improvising anchors in the field, The U.S. Department of the Army published a manual, FM20-22, way back in the 1960s for Recovery and Battle Damage Assessment and Repair (BSAR). The newest version of this publication came out in November 2020, and you can find it on the internet. This manual has not changed much over the years, and has some great tips for constructing deadman anchors. Techniques include burying objects in the ground such as a tire, log or piece of lumber with a chain looped around it,

If logs or rocks aren’t available for a deadman anchor, Off Road Consulting’s traction board is another option.

or digging a large hole and lining it with a parachute or trap, and filling the dirt back in, and then attaching to the parachute or tarp to use the weight of the dirt as an anchor.

In sum, in order to complete a successful recovery, a tow and recovery operator will need to calculate the recovery resistance, and then use the appropriate

anchoring techniques and rigging equipment for the recovery vehicle. And if needed, add sturdy deadman anchors to overcome the total recovery resistance.

The Mico Lock one way check valve is mounted to the dual master cylinder on the recovery vehicle. When the Mico lock is engaged, the one-way valve will only allow hydraulic fluid to flow to the brake calipers and drums.

The Dual Lock is applied by pulling the Mico Lock lever and pumping the service brake pedal until the pedal is stiff. This will apply the service brake on the axles of the recovery truck the same as someone sitting in the driver seat and applying the service brake.

Downpour Dangers

By George Nitti

Photos by David Bonilla

RESPONDING PERSONNEL

“In these kinds of conditions, you never know what’s going to happen,” Eduardo admits. “You must be alert and aware of your surroundings.”

As January’s relentless rains battered California roadways and caused numerous roadway casualties, Jan’s was dispatched to

RESPONDING EQUIPMENT

recover a Lexus that swerved off Interstate 605.

“We had gotten a call from CHP for a heavy duty,” Eduardo related. “I was first to go out and take pictures.” After surveying the situation, he realized that some serious challenges would be involved in the recovery.

“I saw that the Lexus had gone over the side of the hill,” he said. “It was pretty much on its side, on top of a fence.”

Fortunately, the driver of the Lexus walked away from the casualty vehicle, and was picked up when Jan’s rotator arrived, a 1040 Century on a 2019 Peterbilt 389 with Steven Coffee manning the wheel. Eduardo readied himself to go down to the casualty. He first suited up in his PPE: rain gear, gloves, helmet and waterproof boots.

“It was pouring down really hard,” he recalled. “I could see the hill was slippery and muddy. The ground was soft to the touch.”

Amid the heavy rain, tow operator Eduardo Martinez, suited in his PPE and rain gear, rappelled down the side of the slippery embankment to hook up the Lexus that had gone over the side.

Eduardo Martinez Steven Coffee

2019 Peterbilt 389 with a 1040 Century Rotator 2017 International with 21-foot Century flatbed

The rotator lifted the casualty secured with slings on the passenger-side wheels.

The two towmen made a plan on how they were going to get the casualty, keeping in mind that they didn’t have much room to work. And also keeping in mind the unsafe roadway conditions, where all lanes were open, except one.

“The challenge in the rain is that the visibility is not great and poses a threat to us,” Eduardo observed. “Some drivers tend not to be able to see out of their windshields and our bright lights don’t help them.”

Fully garbed, Eduardo went

down with the winch, lowering himself over the mud-soaked hill amid the pelting rain, and rappelled down to the smashed Lexus where he found the airbags deployed, the front windshield damaged, the roof caved in, and the driver’s side front door broken. “It was a total loss,” he noted.

Next he secured the front and back wheels on the passenger side with slings connected to the rotator’s winch line.

“We started working it slowly because when it rains the car tends to slide on top

Having rigging equipment readily at hand is all the more important in a hazardous recovery.

Working the white line requires staying alert to oncoming traffic, especially in a heavy downpour.

Heavy-duty tow operator Steven Coffee working the controls of the rotator as he and Martinez carefully positioned the casualty back onto the freeway.

of the mud,” he said. “We were watching each other and made sure we had communication, making eye contact before Steven started pulling on the winch or doing anything with the boom work.”

As he manipulated the controls of the rotator, the casualty was brought up and safely put down on the side of the freeway. Eduardo then moved his 2017 International with a 21-foot Century flatbed in front of the casualty, and winched it up onto the flatbed, trying to avoid any further damage to the car.

“A lot of people think we just pick up cars and transport. That’s not the case,” Eduardo said. “We are out there risking our lives. We are out there saving people from cars. We are out there recovering vehicles in a way that other people don’t want to do.”

Thanks to the skills of towmen like Martinez and Coffee, additional accidents were avoided by exercising proper procedures with alert situational awareness.

Tow operator Eduardo Martinez preparing to winch the casualty onto his 2017 International with a Century 21-foot flatbed.

Visibility is marginal with the combination of driving rain and spotlights.

Tow operaTor

The Electrical Storm, Part II

Safe Transport and Storage of EVs

By Ed Grubbs

In last month’s issue we discussed the assortment of health, safety, and environmental issues the incident management tower (IMT) will be confronted with as the world transitions to Electric Vehicles (EVs). As the regulatory world is still figuring out what can be regulated, the IMT is faced with making decisions based on available knowledge. Unplanned EV events can be properly managed through: Knowledge, Information, Training and Education (KITE).

We discussed the assessment needs necessary at the accident scene even before you move the EV. Once assessed, transporting back to your facility needs to follow an established protocol. This should be based on the vehicle’s rating by a qualified party. Once assessed, decisions must be made, such as towing versus carrying on a flatbed, and fire department escort or not. Those and other decisions should be preplanned and evaluated with all stakeholders such as police, fire, and even DOT (if necessary).

In the document SAE J2990, the Society of Automotive Engineers recommends towing a damaged electric vehicle on a flatbed, primarily to avoid generating voltage from the turning wheels. If the vehicle’s wheels must be turned—perhaps because it has run off the road—its

speed should be kept below five mph. After being loaded onto a flatbed, possibly with skates under the wheels, the vehicle’s structural integrity should be checked. If the vehicle rolls while it is on the flatbed, the inspection steps listed above should be repeated.

KEEPING ISOLATED

SAE J2990 also states that tow operators should arrange to tow the vehicle to an offsite location where it can be isolated. Once there, the vehicle should be inspected again for evidence of internal battery leaks, which could lead to short circuits or loss of high-voltage isolation. The battery needs to be examined as well for loss of mechanical integrity. If airbags have been deployed, conduct further diagnostic steps to assess the integrity of the highvoltage system, such as measuring the battery temperature.

Once the vehicle arrives, the IMT is now responsible for its safe storage. There are storage safety issues an EV presents that an internal combustion engine (ICE) doesn’t. The most dramatic consequence of a damaged EV is its ability to spontaneously combust. The longest reported post-accident fire was 45 days after being towed. Since

this fire danger is unpredictable, damaged EVs demand special attention and storage requirements. Longstanding hazardous materials and fire codes call for “ignitable waste” to be stored 50 feet from the property line or buildings.

NHTSA’s recommendations for storage (see sidebar) are based on SAE J2990. This document recommends two barrier methods for an electric vehicle during storage: (1) separate the vehicle from combustibles and structures by 50 feet on all sides, or (2) create a barrier of earth, steel, concrete, or solid masonry around the vehicle.

The storage recommendations in SAE J2990 may create issues for the property owner as the regulations do not consider the environmental impacts. First, the space requirement may not be practical in most urban settings and unless you have acreage, may not be practical in rural settings. The other concerns are environmental issues with the way you create barriers.

TOXIC ISSUES

There are two viable options currently available but, before we look at the solutions, we need to understand the problem we are trying to solve in its entirety.

The longest reported post-accident, spontaneous combustion of an EV was 45 days after being towed. Since this fire danger is unpredictable, damaged EVs demand special attention and storage requirements.

Fire is not the only danger from a damaged EV. There are a wide range of chemical reactions that can take place at ambient, and heat-related temperatures within the battery cells.

The electrolyte solution is not like what’s in the sport drinks on the market. The solution is a toxic blend of chemicals designed for their specific purpose to create energy to the levels needed to power the vehicle. Byproduct releases can include hydrofluoric acid, heavy metals, and a wide array of toxins.

According to a study by the RISE Research Institute of Sweden, even without combustion, the flammable

gases emitted from a battery (e.g., H2, CO, CH4 and other low boilingpoint hydrocarbons) could be of a larger and more immediate threat than the toxic gases due to the risk of gas explosion. Both flammable and toxic gases could also be produced if the battery is submerged in saltwater, as we have seen after hurricanes in Florida and other areas. This emittance is due to electrolysis of saltwater causing corrosion and short circuiting that results in flammable and toxic gasses being produced.

It is difficult enough to keep your property clean and un-contaminated when an ICE vehicle leaks, but storage of

electric vehicles adds a whole new level of concern.

SENSORY WARNINGS

Pre-planning is essential to the health and welfare of your facility.

“Storage of electric vehicles adds a whole new level of concern.”

EV batteries are typically separated from one another to prevent fire from spreading through the entire battery system.

Every person should be trained and knowledgeable in the procedures regarding EV storage. The EV can give audible (noise), aromatic (smell) and visual warnings prior to combustion. All facility personnel should be knowledgeable with these characteristics.

As examples, a sweet cherry smell could indicate battery gases. Any buzzing, popping or hissing sound could indicate a leak. Is there a smokey plume? If any of these sights, smells or sounds are present, immediately move everyone 75 feet away from the vehicle and alert the fire department.

Your local fire department should always be prenotified if you have a suspect EV, as this knowledge is critical in order to minimize your risk. A site visit or plan should be held with your local fire department to assess the storage and containment area to determine the best procedures if an emergency occurs.

ACID TEST

Although a burning EV is the most dramatic of events, a damaged EV presents an array of environmental concerns the facility needs to be prepared for. The damaged EV battery can leak hazardous fluids so a containment measure must be included in your standard operating procedures (SOP). One of the most hazardous chemicals to leak is hydrofluoric acid, which is highly corrosive. Acid neutralizing products are available in many forms. This response item should be readily available or used as a preventative for a hazardous release.

There are currently two viable options for EV storage. One that has a more permanent feel is the use of large concrete blocks on a concrete pad. This containment system can be built to make a series of stalls to store multiple vehicles. The structure is solid, and the ◀

NHTSA’s Recommendations for Storing EVs

Do not store a severely damaged vehicle with a lithium-ion battery inside a structure or within 50 feet of any structure, vehicle, or combustibles. Ensure that passenger and cargo compartments remain ventilated. Prior to placing and while located in storage

area/tow lot, continue to inspect vehicle for leaking fluids, sparks, smoke, flames, gurgling, or bubbling sounds from the HEV battery, and call 911 if any of these are detected.

Maintain clear access to stored vehicles for monitoring and emergency response if needed.

large concrete block offers protection from the high temperatures of the burning vehicle. However, the worry of polluting the facility is of great concern.

If the EV catches fire, the fire department could discharge 3,000 to 5,000 gallons of water to cool the battery and put out the fire. It is important to understand that the water must be focused on the undercarriage of the vehicle where the battery compartment is located. Since the passenger compartment is a separate box, water will not cool the battery from that access point. This is a great reason to have your local fire department familiar with your EV storage area.

Another concern is that contaminants released from the EV’s battery could be released throughout the facility by the large volume of water used in the firefighting process. That much water could also find its way into the storm drains and culverts. While contamination levels could be very low, the environmental impact of these large releases could be significant and must be considered. A water collection system would most likely be required as the EV market grows, as these issues begin to percolate in the regulatory arenas.

Another option is a specialized containment box. These steel fabricated boxes are coated with a fire retardant, cementitious material

that can withstand temperatures of up to 2000 degrees. They are patent pending and are designed to also address more of the environmental issues facing the IMT and the safe storage of EVs.

These containers are movable but are designed to be stationary. They have five-foot sides with a lower watertight tailgate for ease of viewing. They also have flooding ports on both sides so if there is a fire, the fire department can quickly flood the containment, drowning the fire and cooling the battery. Since the battery is located under the vehicle, the flooding would only need to go slightly higher than the battery itself. Should the passenger compartment be involved, standard firefighting techniques would remain very effective and fast. Make sure the windows are lowered to provide this access. The advantage of the metal containment system is the water is contained and through the built-in discharge port, can be easily removed and disposed of properly.

HIGHER COSTS

Regardless of which type of storage used in your facility, there are going to be additional costs and fees associated with the safe handling of a damaged EV. These fees need to be addressed through legislation or regulatory processes, and environmental and public safety issues must be brought into focus

with all the stakeholders. Work through your tow associations and industry partners to help facilitate the needed changes in Tow Service Agreements (TSA). They need to identify the hazards that EVs create and revise them to account for the safe and secure handling of these hazardous vehicles and other environmental requirements

associated with damaged vehicles.

One last thought: An electrical storm is coming, and you had better be prepared. NHTSA, The Energy Security Agency, American Towman and others can help you get the education you need. Just be prepared to weather this storm.

The electrolyte solution is a toxic blend of chemicals designed to create energy needed to power the vehicle. Byproduct releases can include hydrofluoric acid, heavy metals, and a wide array of toxins.

What the Users Say

The annual Buyers Report in American Towman Magazine is where you can go to get real word-of-mouth recommendations on the companies, products and services you use to enhance your business.

“It’s just another advertisement,” you might think in skimming over this section. But you’d be wrong.

In assembling this feature every year for the April issue, we reach out by phone, text and email to real users to get the information we need straight from the customers themselves.

It is a task that is several months in the making; as we all well know, the life of a tower is not 9 to 5, Monday through Friday. For every tower, business owner or tow manager we reach in one try - who actually has time to talk right then - we leave a half dozen or more voicemails, emails and text requests.

Why do we do this? In order to get the best product information possible for our readers to evaluate tow industry suppliers, which results in all the details - big and small - you can find in these pages.

AAA UNIFIRST: Tailored to Perfection

“We have been working with AAA Unifirst for over 20 years. They take care of our uniforms. If we have any issues like holes, tears or discoloration, they change them out. Or if we want long sleeve vs short sleeve uniforms or alterations, they swap them out and give you what you need. The uniforms are high VIS for safety with green neon to help our drivers stick out. They wash the uniforms weekly and bring them back to you, fresh and nice. Image means a lot. When a driver pulls up to help a member, it’s important he looks professional from head to toe. With Unifirst, they do.”

Basel Berro, Tel-wick Amoco Service Center, Taylor, Michigan

ACCESS TOOLS Does it Right

“One of the best products/inventions ever created. I get in a car so fast that people really don’t want to be paying me. People tell me that I do a good job. I tell them, “If you have the right equipment, the right tools, you can do it.” With these affordable tools, you can make so much money helping people out.”

AKINS FORD Provides the “Best Bang for Your Buck”

Jason

Pogue, Mighty Speedy Roadside Assistance, Dallas, Texas

“We have been in business 45 years using Miller wreckers. We have eight of them in our fleet. The rollbacks from Akins are the best bang for your buck. Overall, their trucks have lasted the longest than other trucks that we have bought. Miller has done an exceptional job building them. The customer service at Akins is awesome.”

Adam Dees, Dees Used Cars & Towing, Lyons, Georgia

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ALL-AMERICAN JERR-DAN: Always There for Your Needs

“All-American Jerr-Dan is at the top of its game. Erin is always there to answer your call and either provide you with a truck or help you in your search for one. It’s incredibly hassle-free and handy. Picking up trucks at 5:00 p.m. isn’t always convenient for me, but Randy is always willing to wait until I get there, even if that means 6:30 p.m. The truck is loaded and ready to travel even if he can’t make it. You can find comfort at this establishment. Their kind staff and convenient accessibility serve the customer’s needs.”

Ronald Ketch, TMK Enterprises, Kenvil, NJ

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AUSTIN INSURANCE: Down-Home Care Wins Hearts

“I met the owner Sharon Austin at the Texas trade show and got to talking to her and fell in love with her personality and who she is. I like small family businesses and that’s who I support. They take care of you when you call, no questions asked. It’s never a problem. Bottom line: I like them, so I do business with them.”

Mike Freeman, Mike’s Towing Service, Wichita Falls, Texas

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ALLSTATE ROADSIDE Makes a Great Partner

“Allstate Roadside is easy to work with. Marla, their great account representative, is there when we have any questions or trouble. She goes to bat for us. Through Allstate we get a good amount of work. They take care of their customers, and we take care of them. It’s a great partnership. We look forward to continuing working with them.”

Max Kenworth, Elite Towing & Recovery, Portland, Oregon

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Dramatic Efficiency Improvement with AUTO DATA DIRECT

“Since working with Auto Data Direct, it has dramatically improved our efficiency throughout the unclaimed vehicle process. The multi-state integration has singlehandedly cut out hours of manual paperwork and streamlined it all electronically. The record keeping has been fantastic, giving us one less thing to worry about. ADD has simply made everything a click of a mouse.”

Brandon Harris, Capital Towing & Recovery, Columbus, Ohio

CHEVRON COMMERCIAL: The Chosen One

“Although there are tons of places that I can buy my trucks from, I buy all my trucks from Chevron Commercial. I have been buying trucks with them since 2014. Their customer service is excellent. I can call up anytime, with any questions. They have a friendly atmosphere, and they do custom-built work. I have never had any problems. I bought a 2023 International NV custom built by Chevron Commercial, extended Cab with a 16,000-pound bed and auto grip wheel lift; truck features 325 hp, lock-in diffs, and lots of lights which also has green under glow. I just love it! Will be ordering another one soon!”

Chris Higel, Anytime Towing & Recovery, Waynesville, North Carolina

CUSTER PRODUCTS Light Up for Safety, Ease, and Reliability

“I use Custer Products on 35 of my wreckers. Front strobes, little strobes, wireless light bars, flood lights—I use just about everything they have. I’m all lit up for safety. Custer is easy to work with. They are fast, getting me what I need. If I have a problem, they handle it. The price on the product is very reasonable and the product is reliable.”

Charlie Higgs, Cierra Towing and Crushing, Amarillo, Texas

CROUCH’S

AND EQUIPMENT SALES: Friendship With Service

“I’ve been doing business with Crouch’s since 2014. It’s become more of a friendship than business. When I buy a truck from them, I don’t have to worry about any issues. Everything works! They build great equipment and make it easy to buy a truck because of their servicing. If I had a major issue with a truck, which I rarely do, they have the connections and the resources to get the problem fixed. They do an awesome job.”

Troy Brown, Troy’s Wrecker Service, Louisville, Kentucky

DEWEZE: Excellence and Longevity

“We have been selling the DewEze hydraulic clutch pump kits for 35 years. They are an excellent company to work with and their service and engineering teams are responsive and knowledgeable. The product is straightforward to install; it works very well and has great longevity. Some of the ones that we have out there have been running for 20 years. It’s the only one that we sell because we just like that kit better.”

John Gardner, American Wrecker Sales, Cayce, South Carolina

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See Ad Page 34

See Ad Page 72

WRECKER

BFamily Feel at DUAL-TECH with Quality and Service

“We have been running Dual-Tech carriers since 2015. They are great carriers. The quality is as good as any out there. Service is excellent as well, especially after the warranty period. We like the local feeling of Dual-Tech. We are a family-owned business dealing with a family-owned business. And as a big AAA service provider, we put miles on our trucks and need to have trucks. Dual-Tech has been able to supply us.”

Jimmy Collins, Casper’s Bodyshop and Wrecker Service, Greenville, Tennessee

DYNAMIC: Solid and Exceptional

“We first started using Dynamic in 2016 and now have purchased 30 total of their 701 Wheel Lifts and wreckers. Their units have been reliable, keeping us up and running. The parts of the wrecker are very solid and the reach on the Dynamic is exceptional. I love their customer service. Anthony answers his phone day or night. If we need parts, they are always shipped out on the same day.”

Brandon Tester, Relentless Recovery, Cleveland, Ohio

Upgrades and Professionalism at EDGETEC

“We do a lot of business with EdgeTec. When EdgeTec took over the business from Coker Equipment Sales a couple of years ago, they revamped the organization, making significant upgrades. They significantly increased their supply and have made it a priority to service their local market with quality service and great equipment. Chris Bouressa, manager and co-owner, has his hands on everything and doesn’t leave a stone unturned. Their level of professionalism has doubled from what it used to be. The customer has become a priority.”

James Bennett Jr., Beard’s Towing, Fort Worth, Texas

ELIZABETH TRUCK CENTER Customizes and Serves Promptly

“Working with Elizabeth Truck Center is super easy and simple. You tell them what you want, and they facilitate everything throughout the production. Last year, I purchased an 1140 Rotator, and they gave us a custom front bumper, custom door cover, and extra lights on the side of the sleeper and along the body rails. If there are any issues, they take care of them immediately. They are one hundred percent on top of everything.”

Joey Bushway, Joey’s Towing, Detroit, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio

See Ad Page 80

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See Ad Page 47

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FCAR USA: Capable and Does It All

“The FCAR Scan Tool has quite the capabilities. It’s not just for heavy trucks but it’s for cars as well, unlike its competitor’s scan tool, which is not integrated and is three times the price. If you are doing roadside assistance for tractor trailers, this tool can force regenerations on trucks. This is a huge feature, saving truckers a lot of money from what would otherwise be an expensive tow.”

Luis Perez, Elite Towing & Recovery, Mooresville, North Carolina

G-STONE: A-1 All-Around

“G-Stone is a great dealership. We’ve been buying trucks from them for about 30 years. They give great service. If you need something, you call them, and they take care of it. We bought five trucks from them in the last two years—light-duty flatbeds, 550 Rams and Fords. We bought two Dodge 550 flatbeds in the last month. Andy Donor is A number one. They are a family-owned dealership for 70 years. That says it all.”

Carl Stone, Stone’s Shell, East Fairfield, Vermont

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GM CONSULTANTS: Invaluable and Highly Recommended

“I would recommend any towing business owner that intends to buy or sell a towing business in the next 5 to 10 years to engage GM Consulting now and have them look at what you are doing today, and make a three-, five- and ten-year plan. Owner George Metos is an excellent resource and has coached me in making my company more valuable. He is very well versed and articulate in giving advice for towing business owners looking to acquire a new business, or perform a valuation on an existing business.”

Conor Gleason, Priority Towing, Phoenix, Arizona

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GUNIWHEEL: A Great Tool Sought After!

“About two years ago we had a rash of tow calls for stolen vehicle recoveries that were missing rims and tires. It was a struggle to either load them with conventional skates and cribbing, or coordinate picking up wheels and tires from another local dealer. I saw an ad for the Guniwheel and decided to purchase a set. It has been a great tool for us. After seeing them in use, most of our customers now ask where they can buy a set for their shop. That’s probably the ultimate compliment.”

Tim Grube, Grube’s Towing, Mequon, Wisconsin

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INTEGRATED VEHICLE EQUIPMENT FINANCING Makes It Happen

“Integrated Vehicle Equipment Financing is easy to work with. Once you have found a piece of equipment, account representative Doreen Aragona doesn’t let up until she gets all the documents that she needs. If you want a financing deal to happen, Doreen is the one to call. Integrated has financed 15 trucks for me in the last 10 years. Tell Doreen what you want to happen, and she’ll make it happen!”

Jordan McIntosh, Rapture Enterprises, Inc., Burnsville, North Carolina

INTEK TRUCK AND EQUIPMENT LEASING —Always There for Us

“We have been doing business with Intek Truck and Equipment Leasing for over 25 years. We have financed numerous pieces of equipment from light-duty trucks to an 80-ton rotator. They have always been extremely responsive and conscious of our needs. Adam and his father treat us like family. We look forward to continuing our relationship with them.”

Joe Haines, Haines Towing, Columbus, New Jersey

ITI SKATES Work Like Magic

“The ITI control arm skate works like magic every time. When I am dealing with a nonfunctional control arm or ball joint, including a missing wheel, I like that the ITI skate is super lightweight and versatile. I use the control arm skate for vehicles that have been in an accident or if the suspension fails on their vehicle. I love how the skate sits on a busted ball joint or rotor. It rolls smoothly on flat surfaces, dirt or rocks with its smooth rounded sides. It is the best product in the towing business for what it does.”

Daniel Vaca, Affordable Towing, Moreno Valley, California

JERR-DAN: Lasting Love for “The Ultimate”

“I love the brute strength of the Jerr-Dan 35-ton wrecker. For its size and platform, it really handles well. The tilt factor on it is great. The way they set it up for recovery, for our capabilities, is much stronger. I tow a lot of loaded heavy dump trucks and tankers. For how short the platform is on the truck, it’s able to maneuver into areas that a bigger truck wouldn’t be able to. We love the sales and customer service end of the business too. So much so that we have turned our light duty side over to all Jerr-Dan trucks.”

Evan Yocum, Yocum Towing & Recovery,

Allentown, Pennsylvania

Fantastic Guidance with KHASIM INSURANCE AGENCY

“Richard Khasim and his team are very knowledgeable and professional. Whenever we have questions on coverage, they can provide us guidance. We have been with his agency for over 10 years, and everything has run smoothly. His agency insures everything we own. I have recommended many friends and family to his agency, and all have nothing but great things to say. I highly recommend any business, including tow truck companies, to use Richard; he is fantastic!”

Anthony Tazbaz, Pacific Towing, Oceanside, California

LANDOLL: A Trailer You Can’t Live Without

“With the Landoll Trailer, you can use them to move containers, haul equipment or go out to wrecks... we use them for everything. They are versatile and handy. I don’t know how we ran our business without them. The trailer is smooth, sturdy, and dependable. I’m happy we have them.”

Jeff Senica, Senica Interstate Towing, LaSalle, Illinois

LYNCH TRUCK CENTERS Defines Excellence

“I have been using Lynch for as long as they have been there. Sales and service are excellent. Robert does a great job ordering trucks. He knows exactly what my specs are and can already foresee what we are looking for. They have always taken good care of us. Every time we call them up and it’s an emergency, they squeeze us in. They are always looking out for you.”

Larry McKay, Suburban Towing, Elk Grove Village, Illinois

MATJACK: Flawless Cushions and Customer Service

“I don’t have enough good things to say about John and his team at Matjack. Their air cushions are an awesome product, and their customer service is the best, hands down. The product has worked flawlessly every time we’ve had to use it. If you have problems with the compressors, the pumps or have any small issues, you can pick up the phone and get service from anyone that represents the product. I enjoy doing business with people like that.”

Jake Schraeder, Tegeler Body and Frame Wrecker and Crane, Dyersville, Iowa

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BMCMAHON TRUCK CENTER: What You Want, You Get

We have nothing but the best to say about McMahon Truck Center. They have gone above and beyond on every truck that they have put together for us. Their workmanship is the best, and so are their mounting practices. And we are so happy with their service. Paul Blackston, who handles their Jerr-Dan, is so easy to communicate with. He always answers the phone, anytime of day; he can’t do enough for us. When we wanted something, we got it, every time. When you buy a Jerr-Dan, you buy more than a truck. You buy that person too.

George Logan III, George Logan’s Towing, North Brunswick, New Jersey

MIDCO SALES: Impeccable Quality & Service from Start to Finish

“This is my first Jerr-Dan, and my expectations were completely surpassed, not only with the truck build itself, but also the team at Midco. I am beyond impressed with the quality, engineering and innovation that went into this unit. From the first interaction when I met Jim and Pete from Midco Sales, the service has been impeccable every step of the way, from delivery to customization. It’s confidence inspiring knowing that I have Jerr-Dan and Midco to help service my business for the future.”

Brandon Devahl, BD’AZ Heavy Duty Towing, Surprise, Arizona

MIDWESTERN MANUFACTURING: “First of Its Kind” Customized Innovation

“The Cat M100 Winch Recovery System is the first of its kind in the country. It was put on the Caterpillar 335 style excavator. It runs the boom, winch and track simultaneously, versus doing one function at a time. A towing company that does a lot of emergency response and handles large-scale, heavy-style recovery incidents or special operations should consider Midwestern Manufacturing. We have enjoyed the product support and engineering design team throughout the process of building this specialized piece of equipment.”

Phillip McCorquedale, Phillips Towing Service, Fayetteville, North Carolina

MILLER INDUSTRIES: Dedicated to Making the Best

“In business for 40 years, we bought our first Miller heavy-duty wrecker two years ago and were very happy with it. We’ve bought two more heavies since then, and have continued to buy their light-duty wreckers. The build is strong and sturdy, and many features are well thought out and adapted for the kind of work we do. This shows their dedication to making the best product there is for the towing and recovery industry.”

Francis Berry, Unipro Towing & Recovery, Montreal, Canada

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MOBILE CONTROL SYSTEMS’ Simple, Affordable Solutions

“This system is extremely simple and quick to install. It requires no actuators, no modifications and allows you to operate your wrecker manually. Mobile Control has been extremely receptive to input from operators and distributors, and it shows in their design! We have installed these on several units already and our customers are extremely happy with it. It’s inexpensive, durable, and easy to use. We are proud to offer these as a remote-control solution to our customers.”

Tim Ryan, East Coast Truck & Trailer, Portsmouth, Virginia

NEW ENGLAND TRUCKMASTER Stands by Their Builds

“RJB Service Station, Inc has had seamless rapport with New England TruckMaster for 14+ years. We’ve ordered numerous new trucks from them, in addition to trade-ins. Specifications and details of each truck are as discussed, and financing is completed in minutes. Workmanship is great and pricing is fair. New England TruckMaster stands by their builds and has always worked with us in establishing and maintaining our fleet. Friendship and business go hand in hand with New England TruckMaster.”

Robert J Ballasedis, RJB Service Station Inc, Harrison, New York

OMG: Efficient Marketing Creates Profits

“I have had a very positive experience working with OMG. They are easy to work with and get stuff done when I call them. They did our websites, our SEO, weekly social media marketing, and monthly updates to our website. All this has translated into more business!”

Daniel Wojcikowski, Big Boy’s Towing & Recovery, St. Louis, Missouri

ONLINE IMPOUNDS: Lucrative, Easy and Honest— Gets Our Business

“We love Online Impounds because it’s easy, user friendly, and allows us to design our own auction. And it’s financially lucrative. They are great people to do business with. I wouldn’t go anywhere else because the owner is a very fair and honest person, and works with you if there are any issues or suggestions on how to make it a better auction.”

Jeff and Donna Robards, Twisted Hook, LLC., Griffin, Georgia

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PERFORMANCE ADVANTAGE COMPANY Performs Storage Solutions

“PAC Tools has been around a long time. We use this company because of its quality and affordability. It provides a great solution to a problem: where do I store things on a truck? A lot of the mounts are universal so that you can store multiple items; you are not dedicated to finding the right bracket for the right tool. The brackets are adjustable, which is a plus when you don’t know exactly what’s going to go in a spot. The PAC tool quality is something we recommend and stand behind.”

David Rottinghaus, Zip’s AW Direct, New Hampton, Iowa

Greater Profits With RECOVERY BILLING UNLIMITED

“They have given me the confidence of how to charge for my services, to charge for everything I do and to change the outlook of how I look at incidents and billing. I do less volume than before, but I make 2.5 times more revenue just by revamping how we do business. Doing all the work in the world doesn’t mean much if you don’t get paid. Recovery Billing shows you there’s a better way.”

Ed Cardiello, Ed’s Towing, Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania

RIMSLING Beats the Chain

“I use RimSling daily! From lifting equipment to standard winch outs and recoveries, RimSling has the strength to get the job done as well as the flexibility to get in tight spaces. The material does not cause cosmetic damage to the vehicle/equipment. I also like how the rim sling has a protective sleeve to prevent it from getting cut or damaged on sharp edges. Rim slings are light weight for carrying as well as storing inside the truck. We’ve used these on several water recoveries and the divers always comment on the use of the rim sling versus a standard chain. The rim sling is so versatile we also use them as secondary safeties that connect to our chains to the vehicle that is being towed.”

Chris Nieman, Nieman’s Service, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin

SAFEALL: Precision and Fine-Tuning for the Best

“The wireless proportioned remote is used for the winch control on our flatbeds. With this remote you are able to be more precise with the start and stop of the winch, and able to fine tune the speed of the operation. When you are loading expensive cars, you want to have that kind of performance. We bought the kit from ZIPs. It was easy to install and easy to set up. My operator loves it so much that he doesn’t want to drive any other truck because of the remote.”

Steve McGuire, McGuire’s Towing & Recovery, Ashland, Kentucky

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SANTANDER BANK for all our Financing Needs

“I have done over 100 tow truck loans with Santander Bank. They have been nothing but awesome as far as getting my stuff done quickly and efficiently. I wouldn’t use anybody else. Even when you call their customer service, they never put you off, but help you out right on the spot.”

Leonard J. Lopez, Sr., A & A Auto Recycling, Inc., Denver, Colorado

SPECIALTY VEHICLE FUNDING: Financing with Friendliness and Ease

“Specialty Vehicle Funding has financed all my trucks. I buy a lot of tow trucks and the process is super easy. I just call them and send over the paperwork. They will call me back the next day and ask me a couple of questions, like how I want to make the payments and for how long. I have a good relationship with Pete. We are like friends. When you feel like you have a relationship with somebody, you stay with that person. I have referred him to some friends, and they have been financing with him since.”

Doug Stone, Elite Towing, Gainesville, Florida

TALBERT Meets the Highest Standards

“Talbert has been a staple in the heavy haul industry for many years. In our fleet, we utilize Talbert’s trailers as they are strong, versatile, lightweight and very user-friendly. The trailers are engineered and built to the highest quality standards, while still being competitively priced. Talbert and their dealers provide exceptional customer service helping to keep our trailers on the road, servicing all our customer’s needs.”

Aaron Abers, Aber’s Towing & Crane Service Inc, Ashland, Ohio

TDI REPAIR & RECOVERY Has Our Back

“TDI Repair & Recovery is highly reliable. I call them whether I need a tow or work done on one of our trucks. We can send them an email or call them and say, “We need help. Can you get a guy down here?” They are responsive. They are usually down within a few hours. It’s also nice to work with a family owned and operated business.”

Andrew Bean, Old Dominion, Milton, Vermont

TOWBOOK MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE: Advanced and Flexible

B“Towbook Management Software has been fantastic. Our teams dispatch on average 600 calls a day through this operating platform. We like its ease of use; how our data can be locked down and secured; the driver mobile app; the ability to receive electronic dispatches; and the ability to store pictures inside the program to protect the customers and the drivers. The Towbook team has been great to work with, both integration-wise on new terminals and on development requests that we have made to enhance Towbook overall. They have been great at working with our people, coming out in the field, and hosting training classes. I like the fact that they are flexible and willing to make changes within the software for us. With 23 locations, we have a unique need for analytics reporting requirements and customers to build special reports. Overall, we have a great relationship with them.”

Tom Tedford COO Guardian Fleet Services, West Palm Beach, Florida

TOWMATE: Top of the Line Service

“TowMate is a great company with great products and even better customer service. Their timely service to dealers and customers is top of the line. If problems arise with their products, they have great warranties and their goal is to get you back to work and making money quickly.”

Jake Crane, Rocky Mountain Wrecker Sales, Salt Lake City, Utah

TRACKED MACHINES NORTH AMERICA: Safety and Mobility at Their Best

“With the advancement of technology of all-wheel drive and hybrid vehicles, the tracked machine makes it a whole lot easier for you to grab all four wheels safely. You don’t have to worry about putting skates on something and winching it up on a rollback. You don’t have to worry about finding something to hook up to on a lot of these new cars. Using the tracked machine is a whole lot safer and it can go anywhere, especially in places where we can’t get our trucks.”

Garrett Scarlette, Garrett’s Towing, Thomasville, North Carolina

TRAXERO: Integrated Technology with Many Benefits

“Traxero is a secure platform that simplifies the back-office duplication of different tasks. Our company uses Traxero’s towing management system TOPS, with certified mail and integrated auctions as well as BudgetGPS for fleet tracking. The fact that everything is integrated into one system is excellent. This has freed up our staff to remain focused on running our business while saving us on labor, fuel, and trucks. Having a system that is reliable is very important. We have processed over 190,000 calls through Traxero and the systems are always up. Anytime we have asked for custom software development or to add different features, Traxero has accommodated to provide the best experience for our customers and employees.”

James Whittredge, Pro Tow, Columbus, Ohio

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TRAIL KING INDUSTRIES: Versatility that Fulfills All our Needs

“We purchased a new 40-ton Trail King sliding axle trailer, and it is by far the most versatile trailer in our fleet. Its dual side control boxes are great and provide safe and convenient access to the trailer’s mechanics. We’ve been able to use the trailer for a variety of jobs, from hauling full-size buses cross country to accident scenes on major highways, to transporting 20’, 40’ and even 45’ ocean containers. We also use it to carry paving equipment or small loaders or mid-size excavators—whatever we need! The best part about this trailer is how easy it is to load and unload—even when carrying heavy loads. There are so many opportunities for us with this new piece of equipment.”

David Parker (Heavy Haul Division), Guardian Fleet

Services,

West Palm Beach, Florida

WEST END SERVICE Earns Exclusivity

“I buy everything from West End Service, whether it’s trucks or parts. I’ve been dealing with them exclusively for eight years. All our tow trucks are from Miller Industries and West End is my one-stop shop. What they have in stock is extensive for the trucks that we have, and if they do not have it, they can get parts quickly. Everything is ordered and spec’d the way we want it. We recently purchased a 2023 Freightliner M2 with a Chevron 22-foot 16 series Load Right with features that include unlimited tie-down points, great load angle, galvanized subframe and side puller. This truck’s got all the bells and whistles.”

Bruce Leibowitz, Rockdale Towing, Reisterstown, Maryland

WRECKMASTER Masters in the Art of Training

“I am a big advocate of WreckMaster. WreckMaster sets the standard through hands-on and online training. They teach you to think outside the box. They teach discipline, integrity and safety while providing you the opportunity to network and bond with your classmates. They instill confidence and knowledge with safety being the main priority. WreckMaster has prepared me to be a better operator, business owner and person in life. They can do the same for you.”

Dennis J Boyce, Boyce’s Towing, Morganville, New Jersey

Superior Quality and Durability with ZIP’S AW DIRECT

“The quality of craftsmanship and paintwork on our new Vulcan V70 is incredible. Being in Wisconsin with cold, snow and salt, we need a product that holds up in extreme weather conditions. ZIP’s has made a superior product even better.”

Chase Leonard, Floyd and Sons, Towing Inc., Racine, Wisconsin

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Survival Mode

Towmen’s Lifesaving Efforts in the Aftermath of Hurricane Ida

By Steve Temple

Weathering a severe storm is no simple matter, but helping the people affected by it can be equally as challenging. Just ask Joe Crawley of Crawley’s Services, whose towers came to the aid of Louisiana residents in September 2021 after Hurricane Ida ripped through the state. Deadly and destructive, Ida was second only to Katrina’s devastating effects. While numerous vehicles and watercraft required recoveries, Crawley’s crew

from Sugarland, Texas was hired by Moffitt Services for a different sort of job—providing desperately needed supplies, such as food, water, and fuel.

“We had no clue what we were getting into,” Joe admitted. Even after an initial briefing by Moffitt, he was unaware of the severe scope

RECOVERY PERSONNEL

Joe Crawley

Shawn Crawley

The damage done by Hurricane Ida was severe, requiring massive relief efforts to assist those people affected.

Working long days and covering 8,000 miles in two weeks to deliver supplies, Joe Crawley says that, “We were movin’, running our wheels off”

John Willis

of damage done by the storm, and the challenges to overcome. “A lot of people there needed help. But we didn’t have much either, since nothing was open for food. It was a struggle. People would feed us, give us water, our toolbox was a pantry filled with snack food. We were in the same boat as the people affected by the storm. Our resources were very limited.”

Add to that extremely long days and many miles of travel around both Louisiana and Mississippi, more than 8,000 miles in two weeks. They were hauling generators and fuel cubes to schools, churches, FEMA camps and mobile kitchens set up by the National Guard. The fuel cubes, each weighing several thousand pounds, required careful winching and loading, with the heavier diesel positioned up front, and the lighter unleaded gas at the rear. Once at the staging areas, pumps inside the tank were powered by alligator clips attached to batteries to empty the

RECOVERY EQUIPMENT

2020

fuel. A mobile fueler had to be towed at times as well. “We’d work no less than 12 hours,” Joe related. “Often 18 to 20 hours, for three to four weeks straight.”

When his crew fell into bed to grab a few hours of shuteye, motel accommodations were not exactly luxurious. New Orleans was all blacked

In addition to fuel cubes, Crawley’s Services hauled a mobile fueler as well.

Many hours were put in by Crawley’s crew in loading and delivering supplies to those in need.

2011 Peterbilt 15-series Century

Peterbilt 12-series LCG Century; side puller with outriggers

out from power outages, and the surroundings were sketchy due to looting.

“We worried about our trucks getting vandalized,” Joe noted. “Or being robbed or hijacked. We had a police escort a couple of times.” As a precaution, the towers carried handguns for self-defense, but fortunately there were no altercations. The locals were helpful at times, too.

“One guy we delivered to at a grocery store, Joe Zuppardo in Metairie, Louisiana, I’ll never forget him,” Joe related. “He needed gas for a generator that powered his house and store, and he was so grateful, very appreciative.” Joe fed Crawley’s crew, along with supplying them water, ice, food and supplies when needed because Crawley’s towers were just as shorthanded as the Zuppardo’s were. Fellow towmen lent a hand as well.

Crawley’s crew encountered mile after mile of damaged buildings after the storm, with many residents in desperate need of basic necessities.

“We made friends with another wrecker service,” he added. Louie’s Wrecker Service in Boutte, Louisiana made meals for them, washed Crawley’s trucks, and even did their laundry. “They made us feel right at home, catered to us. So we helped them out in Texas with their customers, and took care of them like they took care of us.”

All told, while everyone was sad for the suffering and billions in damages that the hurricane caused, the towers’ survival aid also brought out the best in both residents and the towmen who provided for their essential needs.

Crawley’s Services was contracted by Moffitt Services to help with disaster relief.

supplier scoop

Isuzu Exec Joins NTEA Board

Brian J. Tabel, executive director of marketing for Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc., has been selected to serve a three-year term on the board of directors of National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA). Tabel is the first representative of an import chassis brand to be elected to the board in NTEA’s 59-year history. This announcement was made in mid-March during Work Truck Week 2023, North America’s largest work truck trade show, held at the Indiana Convention Center.

NTEA’s stated mission is “to further the knowledge, growth and

profitability of the work truck industry.” Its 13-person board of directors provides organizational oversight, determines its future direction, sets policy positions, and secures the association’s fiscal health.

“With the increasing focus on zero-emission vehicles, our industry is about to experience significant evolution,” Tabel pointed out. “NTEA will need to offer more support and resources to members than ever before.”

Green Initiatives

Cummins has launched a new brand for its green and new power business, the company announced.

Named Accelera, it will focus on zero-emissions solutions for Cummins’ product portfolio, including hydrogen fuel cells, batteries, e-axles, traction systems and electrolyzers, to sustainably power a variety of industries. Amy Davis, who has led the New Power business unit since 2020, will serve as president of Accelera. She has previously served in a number of global and business leadership roles during her more than 25 years with Cummins.

Guardian is Growing

Guardian Fleet Services, a leading provider of towing, recovery, and specialized transportation services in the United States, has begun to expand beyond the state of Florida. The company acquired Emerald Transportation of Pompano Beach, FL, and Sapp’s Wrecker Service of Savannah, GA. In addition, Guardian Fleet Services announced that Chartwell Investments Entrepreneur & Founder Capital (CHIEF Cap- ◀

Isuzu’s Brian J. Tabel

ital) has completed a major growth investment in the company to fund future expansion with financing arranged by Backcast Partners, including Morgan Stanley Private Credit and Source Capital. With the addition of Emerald Transportation and Sapp’s Wrecker Service, Guardian now has 23 locations and over 400 pieces of equipment in its fleet, offering service throughout Florida and now Georgia.

Source: guardianfleetservice.com

Global Electric Truck Market

Estimated to be 101,499 units in 2022, the global electric market is projected to grow 34.2% during the forecast period, to reach 1,067,985 units by 2030, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The market for electric trucks is increasing due to factors such as increase in distribution services, last-mile delivery and government focus on reducing vehicle emissions.

The electric truck market is dominated by the NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) battery as it is said to be the most efficient. Most market-leading Chinese OEMs use these batteries in electric trucks in their fleets. These batteries have a comparatively higher energy density than LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries. Also, the cost of NMC batteries is declining and level with the cost of LFP batteries, thus, further boosting the NMC battery market. However, the demand for LFP is also on the rise in the forecasted period as the life of LFP batteries is longer than that of NMC batteries. Adoption of NMC batteries is expected to rise in the near future in European and American countries.

Light-duty trucks are dominant this segment of the market. OEMs such as Ford, GM, Rivian, and Tesla have developed these electric trucks. A large number of players like Bollinger Motors, Canoo, Nissan Motor Corporation, Hercules, and Alpha plan to enter this segment. Tesla, Inc. launched a futuristic angular armored electric pickup truck and a driving range of 500 miles. It also has a GVWR of ◀

10,000 lbs. The demand for light-duty electric trucks has increased due to the demand for low-emission intra-state commercial transport.

Request Free Sample Report: marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id= 260287840

Hino Goes to SEA

SEA Electric’s proprietary SEADrive power system is to be fitted to both the Hino Trucks’ M and L Series. This power-system was part of Project Z, Hino Trucks’ move into zero-emission vehicles in the medium-duty segment. In cultivating a diverse ecosystem of partners such as Hino Trucks, SEA Electric plans to work with different customers simultaneously,

including upfitters, suppliers, and more, creating an opportunity to extend beyond our current markets, stated Tony Fairweather, SEA Electric CEO and Founder. For Hino Trucks, the announcement expands its range in a growing market.

“We are pleased to add SEA Electric’s SEA-Drive power-system to our M and L series product offering. As our industry introduces electric options, Hino Trucks can now offer an option for all the markets affected

646.723.6393

Craig R. Nadolny by ACT mandate,” said Glenn Ellis, President of Hino Trucks.

Further information on the SEADrive powered Hino Trucks M5e and L6e models is available at: https://www.hino.com/electricvehicle.html

www.sea-electric.com

Commercial Truck Report

The National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) has released the second edition of the U.S. Commercial Vehicle Market Report. This semi-annual industry report delves into the details, data and trends around the life cycle of commercial vehicles, from chassis sales to truck registration to later stages when used vehicles re-enter the sales market. Topics covered include purchasing trends and forecasts by vehicle class, chassis and supply shortages, proliferation of electric commercial vehicles, and average vehicle age shifts. The Spring 2023 U.S. Commercial Vehicle Market Report is free to the industry. For the next edition of the Report, email: marketreport@ntea.com.

Ford Pro’s View of EVs

Despite spending $50 billion on electrification, and a goal of producing 600k EVs annually this year, Ford realizes that battery technology isn’t ready yet for certain types of vehicles. In particular, those that exceed a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 8,500 pounds. As an example, the E-Transit is popular among certain commercial customers, but Ford Pro CEO Ted Cannis is not pushing fleet buyers toward electrification. He points out that Super Duty heavy trucks require a lot of energy moving up and down highways, and electric vehicles are not suitable for longer trips. Cannis admits that he doesn’t want to sell an electric truck or van that won’t let a job get done.

“They’re not all perfect,” Cannis noted. “They don’t do everything yet.” He added that

while electric trucks do a lot of things better, for other things like towing long distances in the cold, they are not ideal. As Ford CEO Jim Farley has acknowledged, EVs aren’t for everyone at the moment, especially the Ford Super Duty customer. That’s precisely why the automaker will continue making ICE and hybrid vehicles, and offer hydrogen power as well later on.

2022 Analysis of Commercial Vehicle Market

After collecting national data on customization done to a chassis or van after being manufactured by an OEM, Work Truck Solutions released its 2022 analysis of the commercial vehicle market. Research on commercial vehicle (CV) sales compiled for 2022 on average prices, availability, mileage, and days to turn (DTT) confirmed that the supply chain was devastated by the global pandemic. The silver lining is a slow but steady recovery marked by four quarters of positive trends. The first quarter of 2022 may have been the turning point in the health of the automotive supply chain, and the outlook for the coming year is for continued recovery, although likely at a slow pace as there are still supply chain hurdles to overcome.

When examining used work trucks and vans, there were a couple of key takeaways. Used on-lot commercial inventory per dealer continued to skyrocket, reaching an all-time high for the past three years in Q4 2022 and marking a 144% increase over Q4 2021.

The increasing availability of new work trucks and vans is having an effect on used vehicle sales and pricing. For example, while the average price of a new CV reached an all-time high of $53,162 in Q4 of 2022, the average price of a used CV declined in both Q3 and Q4 of 2022, representing an 8.3% drop from Q2 2022.

Source: worktrucksolutions.com

Pete 337 Jerr Dan Carrier 2012 Dodge 5500 4x4 Vulcan Carrier

Special Delivery

C&C Roadside Handles With Care

By Steve Temple

Any tower can load everyday cars, but what about specialty vehicles? Like pricey imports and finicky electric cars— everything from Lambos to Lucids. That requires some skills and experience, which Joe Campanella of C&C Roadside has plenty of, since he’s been in the towing business for 25 years. He started out in New

York, but in 2002 moved to Texas and established his own tow business in North Richland Hills, largely due to the fewer regs and easier insurance there.

Joe also has a background in electrical engineering,

which helped him with developing his roadside charger, “EV on the Go.” But first and foremost, he gives a lot of credit to his 2022 Mack MD6 with

TECH HIGHLIGHTS:

Truck: 2022 Mack MD6

Engine: Cummins PX-7

Wrecker body: Jerr-Dan 6 Ton XLP, 22-foot flatbed

Custom features: vinyl wrap by Marca Graphics; Phoenix LEDs by Dana, EV fire extinguisher, Steck rollers, custom ramps for low-profile exotics, TruckMax wheels and windshield visor, Lodar wireless remote ramp control

a Jerr-Dan 6 Ton XLP 22-foot flatbed.

“She’s got power, she’s strong,” Joe enthuses. “A great truck to drive.”

To handle the specialized vehicles mentioned above, he makes sure he has three types of tow straps on board (for exotics, heavy-duty

A friend’s red Ferrari on the bed caught the attention of both judges and spectators.

TruckMax in Miami, Florida added a jaunty chrome visor for the windshield and trick wheels to make a stylish statement.

trucks, and regular vehicles). Plus a Lodar wireless remote ramp control, and a fire extinguisher for EVs, since he deals with several on a weekly basis. In addition, his custom ramps and Steck rollers come in handy for loading low-profile exotics on the flatbed, and EVs as well that lock up the brakes when their batteries die.

Joe actually has a fleet of six tow trucks, all Jerr-Dan, since he’s had many good experiences with the company and its equipment. He prefers having the colors match on all his wreckers, so he had Marca Graphics apply a bold red and white wrap with green accent outlines to his Mack. For some extra flash, he included a set of Phoenix LEDs by Dana. And TruckMax added those custom wheels and a windshield visor.

Clearly Joe is real meticulous about the look of all his trucks, so no

surprise he took home a first-place trophy from American Towman’s 2022 TowXpo at the Fort Worth Convention Center. What prompted the judges’ selection? Joe feels it’s because the Mack is distinctive—and it didn’t hurt having an eye-catching red Ferrari sitting on the bed! That exotic is owned by his best friend, who’s his cardiologist too.

Looking back on his many years in the tow industry, at the end of the day, he had this to say: “Towing’s my passion, I love it! It gives you freedom to be out with the public.”

But he also shared details about some difficult recoveries, such as pulling out a car submerged underwater, some 300 feet down a ravine. So he admits that towing can be a challenge, and points out that, “My performance has to be the best it can be—what the public expects.”

Square One: Name the Job

By Steve Calitri

When Donnie Cruse

christened the term WreckMaster for his training organization in 1990 and applied it to every towman it trained and certified, it was a stroke of genius. The name alone was an effective lure to draft trainees. It is a lesson in recruitment that all tow bosses should heed.

There is no tougher challenge today than recruiting men and women who have the right stuff to be a tow operator. The position takes bravery, an aptitude for this unique physical work, and a mental commitment to acquire the necessary skills. In 2023 this is a tall order.

There are several good practices a boss must follow for successful recruitment, but number one on the list is naming the position in both your advertising and in-house communications. Most classified ads that run use the term tow truck driver or operator in the titles. This might suffice if the goal is to attract only those who have experience

in the work, but it won’t make either the company or the position sound special. Moreover, today’s challenge requires attracting new people into the industry.

Would the marines be looking for soldiers when they are needing to attract people who have never been soldiers, and do not understand all that the job entails? Remember their famous come on?

“We’re looking for a few good men.”

The marines sought young men who had the character to want a tough challenge. Not just anyone would do.

Tow Truck Driver does not adequately describe the essence of what a tower does or the diversity of the work. Neither is the term inspiring on its own merits. Using the word operator instead is a general improvement, but does little to pique the imagination or play on one’s ego.

Whoever adapted the term astronaut for NASA may very well have had recruitment in mind. Who among the first pioneers of outer space would have been lured by the title of spaceman? Astronaut is defined as one who travels among the stars. Spaceman or Astronaut. Which one better captures and ignites the imagination?

What name do you use to attract someone to be a towing and recovery specialist for your operation? Let’s try a few out for size.

The job calls for an individual who can respond well to emergency situations. Even the simplest breakdown on a highway qualifies for as being an emergency.

Road Rescue Professional. Rescues in towing range from common breakdowns with stranded motorists to vehicles that ran off the road or collided with other vehicles. The term rescue is apt and is a cherished action that often implies heroism. As the boss, do you want to draw someone to your company who has the right stuff to be a hero, or someone who shrinks in the face of adversity?

Keep in mind, you’re not just looking for someone to walk in the door, you want someone who can embrace the job, and stick around. Someone who is undaunted by the dangers of working the white line, enjoys challenges and helping people.

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

Road Ranger. While the term alone doesn’t specifically describe what the position entails, it does spark romantic notions that calls to mind several icons of adventure: the Texas Rangers, the Lone Ranger, Forest Rangers, Army Rangers, to name some. Names that have won respect among the public.

Emergency Road Service Technician, or Specialist, or Engineer.

Whatever you choose should not just be a name that characterizes your recruitment advertisement, but one incorporated into your company culture. That term may well be used as the title on nametags or embroidered onto the company uniforms. Here at American Towman we use the term Towman with the deepest respect. The term you choose to apply to the position should also have your respect.

News Flash

Procession Honors Fallen Towman

A convoy of towers showed up at the Acosta Bridge in Jacksonville, Florida to honor fallen tower Austin Gayne who was killed two years ago. Events were also held in Canton and Orlando, Florida. Gayne, when 24 years old, was struck while loading

up a dump truck on Feb. 1, 2021, and spent several weeks in ICU before he died.

Organizers said the event was meant to draw attention to the Move Over law and to show support for other towers who have fallen under similar circumstances.

“It’s to bring awareness that tow

truck drivers do matter,” said his sister Alexis Gayne, who was at the event in Jacksonville. The message to the public was that if more drivers slowed down to 20 mph, more lives would be saved.

Gayne’s mother, who was in Canton organizing another procession, pointed out that, “There were plenty of lights and cones. The person just wasn’t paying attention.” The mother added that while nothing will bring her son back, she will continue to work so that everyone will become aware of the law.

Source: news4jax.com

Portland Tow Yards Bustling After Historic Storm

A snowstorm that hit Portland, Oregon in late February left hundreds of motorists abandoning their cars, requiring tow companies to clear the roads and store the vehicles. At least 609 cars were abandoned on Portland roads and freeways during the

Towers came out in Canton, Florida to honor fallen tower Austin Gayne and spread awareness of the Move Over law.

historic snowstorm. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) said 349 cars were towed.

People lined up all day at Retriever Towing in Northwest Portland to get their cars; however not all drivers were happy about the circumstances and having to pay storage fees, even though fees were waived on citations.

Many people who were trying to get their cars back from towing com-

panies said they were frustrated because they were not sure which towing company had their car.

Source: katu.com

Tower’s Death Leads to Indictment

A man who struck and killed a tower on the Long Island Expressway (LIE) has been indicted for second-degree vehicular manslaughter and other charges in what authorities allege was the alcohol-related death on Oct.

8. Tow truck operator Carlos “Campy” Santiago, 47, was on the shoulder of the westbound LIE helping a stranded motorist.

The driver, Denzel Porter,

was also indicted on charges of criminally negligent homicide, first- and second-degree vehicular assault, second-degree assault, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, and operating or driving an unregistered vehicle, according to a statement from the office of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz.

“There’s nothing more selfish than getting behind the wheel and driving under the influence,” Katz’s press release stated. “Everyone with whom we share the road deserves our respect and consideration, and has every right to reach their destina-

Retriever Towing’s storage lot was at full capacity after the historic storm that hit Portland, Oregon.

The drunk driver who killed Carlos “Campy” Santiago has been indicted.

tion safely. The defendant is alleged to have been driving while intoxicated and will be held to account for the tragic consequences of that decision.”

Porter, who is due back in court on May 2, faces up to seven years if convicted.

Source: qchron.com

Heavy-Duty Repair Revenues Recovering

Heavy-duty repair shop revenue is climbing back to pre-pandemic form in 2022, according to the third annual State of Heavy-Duty Repair report issued by repair shop software maker Fullbay.

Among the key findings of this year’s report:

-76% of shops raised their labor rates in 2022, 24% did not.

-25% of shops surveyed were pulling in between $1 to $2 million each year, while 17% reported revenue between $250,001 and $500,000.

-19.8% of shops reported having a better handle on their P&L, as compared to only 9.8% last year.

The report’s data is based on survey responses from more than 1600 individuals from shops in North America, Australia and New Zealand, across all avenues of the commercial freight, logistics, and repair industries.

Source:

American Trucking Association

Fullbay’s trucking report indicates that revenue of repair shops is improving to pre-pandemic levels.

News Flash

Procession Honors Fallen Towman

A convoy of towers showed up at the Acosta Bridge in Jacksonville, Florida to honor fallen tower Austin Gayne who was killed two years ago. Events were also held in Canton and Orlando, Florida. Gayne, when 24 years old, was struck while loading

up a dump truck on Feb. 1, 2021, and spent several weeks in ICU before he died.

Organizers said the event was meant to draw attention to the Move Over law and to show support for other towers who have fallen under similar circumstances.

“It’s to bring awareness that tow

truck drivers do matter,” said his sister Alexis Gayne, who was at the event in Jacksonville. The message to the public was that if more drivers slowed down to 20 mph, more lives would be saved.

Gayne’s mother, who was in Canton organizing another procession, pointed out that, “There were plenty of lights and cones. The person just wasn’t paying attention.” The mother added that while nothing will bring her son back, she will continue to work so that everyone will become aware of the law.

Source: news4jax.com

Portland Tow Yards Bustling After Historic Storm

A snowstorm that hit Portland, Oregon in late February left hundreds of motorists abandoning their cars, requiring tow companies to clear the roads and store the vehicles. At least 609 cars were abandoned on Portland roads and freeways during the historic snowstorm. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) said 349 cars were towed.

People lined up all day at Retriever Towing in Northwest Portland to get their cars; however not all drivers were happy about the circumstances and having to pay storage fees, even though fees were waived on citations.

Many people who were trying to get their cars back from towing companies said they were frustrated because they were not sure which towing company had their car.

Source: katu.com

Retriever Towing’s storage lot was at full capacity after the historic storm that hit Portland, Oregon.

Towers came out in Canton, Florida to honor fallen tower Austin Gayne and spread awareness of the Move Over law.

Tower’s Death Leads to Indictment

A man who struck and killed a tower on the Long Island Expressway (LIE) has been indicted for second-degree vehicular manslaughter and other charges in what authorities allege was the alcohol-related death on Oct. 8. Tow truck operator Carlos “Campy” Santiago, 47, was on the shoulder of

the westbound LIE helping a stranded motorist.

The driver, Denzel Porter, was also indicted on charges of criminally negligent homicide, first- and second-degree vehicular assault, second-degree assault, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, and operating or driving an unregistered vehicle, according to a statement from the office of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz.

“There’s nothing more selfish than getting behind the wheel and driving under the influence,” Katz’s press release stated. “Everyone with whom we share the road deserves our respect and consideration, and has every right to reach their destination safely. The defendant is alleged to have been driving while intoxicated and will be held to account for the tragic consequences of that decision.”

Porter, who is due back in court on May 2, faces up to seven years if convicted.

Source: qchron.com

Heavy-Duty Repair Revenues Recovering

Heavy-duty repair shop revenue is climbing back to pre-pandemic form in 2022, according to the third annual State of Heavy-Duty Repair report issued by repair shop software

The drunk driver who killed Carlos “Campy” Santiago has been indicted.

Fullbay’s trucking report indicates that revenue of repair shops is improving to pre-pandemic levels.

maker Fullbay.

Among the key findings of this year’s report:

-76% of shops raised their labor rates in 2022, 24% did not.

-25% of shops surveyed were pulling in between $1 to $2 million each year, while 17% reported revenue between $250,001 and $500,000.

-19.8% of shops reported having a better handle on their P&L, as compared to only 9.8% last year.

The report’s data is based on survey responses from more than 1600 individuals from shops in North America, Australia and New Zealand, across all avenues of the commercial freight, logistics, and repair industries.

Source:

American Trucking Association

Georgia Legislators Proposing Ban on Booting

A bipartisan group of state lawmakers has filed legislation to com-

pletely ban the booting of vehicles in Georgia. State Sen. Josh McLaurin (D), lead sponsor of Senate Bill 247, believes the practice is overused and abused.

“It’s so low cost to the property owners that a lot of times booting companies will put boots on cars that they’re not sure are unauthorized,” McLaurin said. “So you’ve got tons of people who actually pay the fee, or

their invitees or guests of the property, and they’re still getting booted because it’s much easier for the property owner to just let the driver and the booting company figure it out, than care about the inconvenience.”

Senate Bill 247 would specifically ban towing and storage companies to use immobilization devices on cars that are improperly parked.

Source: wabe.org

Georgia could potentially do away with the practice of booting.

Procession Honors Fallen Towman

A convoy of towers showed up at the Acosta Bridge in Jacksonville, Florida to honor fallen tower Austin Gayne who was killed two years ago. Events were also held in Canton and Orlando, Florida. Gayne, when 24 years old, was struck while loading

up a dump truck on Feb. 1, 2021, and spent several weeks in ICU before he died.

Organizers said the event was meant to draw attention to the Move Over law and to show support for other towers who have fallen under similar circumstances.

“It’s to bring awareness that tow

truck drivers do matter,” said his sister Alexis Gayne, who was at the event in Jacksonville. The message to the public was that if more drivers slowed down to 20 mph, more lives would be saved.

Gayne’s mother, who was in Canton organizing another procession, pointed out that, “There were plenty of lights and cones. The person just wasn’t paying attention.” The mother added that while nothing will bring her son back, she will continue to work so that everyone will become aware of the law.

Source: news4jax.com

Portland Tow Yards Bustling After Historic Storm

A snowstorm that hit Portland, Oregon in late February left hundreds of motorists abandoning their cars, requiring tow companies to clear the roads and store the vehicles. At least 609 cars were abandoned on Portland roads and freeways during the historic snowstorm. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) said 349 cars were towed.

People lined up all day at Retriever Towing in Northwest Portland to get their cars; however not all drivers were happy about the circumstances and having to pay storage fees, even though fees were waived on citations.

Many people who were trying to get their cars back from towing companies said they were frustrated because they were not sure which towing company had their car.

Source: katu.com

Retriever Towing’s storage lot was at full capacity after the historic storm that hit Portland, Oregon.

Towers came out in Canton, Florida to honor fallen tower Austin Gayne and spread awareness of the Move Over law.

News Flash

Tower’s Death Leads to Indictment

A man who struck and killed a tower on the Long Island Expressway (LIE) has been indicted for second-degree vehicular manslaughter and other charges in what authorities allege was the alcohol-related death on Oct. 8. Tow truck operator Carlos “Campy” Santiago, 47, was on the shoulder of the westbound LIE helping a stranded motorist.

The driver, Denzel Porter, was also indicted on charges of criminally negligent homicide, first- and second-degree vehicular assault, second-degree assault, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, and operating or driving an unregistered vehicle, according to a statement from the office of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz.

“There’s nothing more selfish than getting behind the wheel and driving under the influence,” Katz’s press release stated. “Everyone with whom we share the road deserves our re-

spect and consideration, and has every right to reach their destination safely. The defendant is alleged to have been driving while intoxicated and will be held to account for the tragic consequences of that decision.”

Porter, who is due back in court on May 2, faces up to seven years if convicted.

Source: qchron.com

Heavy-Duty Repair Revenues Recovering

Heavy-duty repair shop revenue is climbing back to pre-pandemic form in 2022, according to the third annual State of Heavy-Duty Repair report issued by repair shop software maker Fullbay.

Among the key findings of this year’s report:

-76% of shops raised their labor rates in 2022, 24% did not.

-25% of shops surveyed were pulling in between $1 to $2 million each year, while 17% reported revenue be-

tween $250,001 and $500,000.

-19.8% of shops reported having a better handle on their P&L, as compared to only 9.8% last year.

The report’s data is based on survey responses from more than 1600 individuals from shops in North America, Australia and New Zealand, across all avenues of the commercial freight, logistics, and repair industries.

Source: American Trucking Association

Fullbay’s trucking report indicates that revenue of repair shops is improving to pre-pandemic levels.

Tower’s Death Leads to Indictment

A man who struck and killed a tower on the Long Island Expressway (LIE) has been indicted for second-degree vehicular manslaughter and other charges in what authorities allege was the alco-

hol-related death on Oct. 8. Tow truck operator Carlos “Campy” Santiago, 47, was on the shoulder of the westbound LIE helping a stranded motorist.

The driver, Denzel Porter, was also indicted on charges of criminally negligent homicide, first- and second-degree vehicular assault, second-degree assault, operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, and operating or driving an unregistered vehicle, according to a statement from the office of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz.

“There’s nothing more selfish than getting behind the wheel and driving under the influence,” Katz’s press release stated. “Everyone with whom we share the road deserves our respect and consideration, and has every right to reach their destination safely. The defendant is alleged to have been driving while intoxicated and will be held to account for the tragic consequences of that decision.”

Porter, who is due back in court

on May 2, faces up to seven years if convicted.

Source: qchron.com

Heavy-Duty Repair Revenues Recovering

Heavy-duty repair shop revenue is climbing back to pre-pandemic form in 2022, according to the third annual State of Heavy-Duty Repair report issued by repair shop software

Fullbay’s trucking report indicates that revenue of repair shops is improving to pre-pandemic levels.

The drunk driver who killed Carlos “Campy” Santiago has been indicted.

maker Fullbay.

Among the key findings of this year’s report:

-76% of shops raised their labor rates in 2022, 24% did not.

-25% of shops surveyed were pulling in between $1 to $2 million each year, while 17% reported revenue between $250,001 and $500,000.

-19.8% of shops reported having a better handle on their P&L, as compared to only 9.8% last year.

The report’s data is based on survey responses from more than 1600 individuals from shops in North America, Australia and New Zealand, across all avenues of the commercial freight, logistics, and repair industries.

Source: American Trucking Association