American Towman Magazine - Aug. 2016

Enjoy your coffee at TowIndustryToday.com

Departments Walkaround . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 News Share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Road Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Tow Boss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Tow Engineer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

FEATURE CONTENTS

Tow Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 AD Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

30

Repo Run . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Car in the Passaic

My Baby. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75

Towmen from Nick’s had to exercise care in recovering a sedan from the river to preserve it for investigation.

by Jim “Buck“ Sorrenti

Towman’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . .78 Low Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 Adventures of A.T. . . . . . . . . . . . .89

35

The Greatest Show of All Time Attendee Brochure for 2016 AT Expo is here!

Read all about it!

60 Nick’s Towing Service hooked up a car that went into the Passaic River in N.J. (cover photos), and used their Century rotator to get it over some trees and back on land for the investigation to begin (background).

Mid-Air Tractor End Roll The crew at Joe’s Towing in Illinois thought outside the box to rescue a tractor from a ditch.

by Kurt Wilson

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 3

Spirit Ride Keeps Growing

by Dennie Ortiz

First On The Scene!

The AT Sprit Ride is gaining momentum within the towing industry. Since we announced this initiative a couple of months ago, towers have called in and approached us at several tow shows asking how they can be part of this program.

This is really not surprising given the importance of the Move Over laws to towers and the imperative of raising public awareness of these laws.

Though the AT Sprit Ride will be running from one coast of the United States to the other, we’ve even had Canadian towers asking how they may participate. This is exactly what we had hoped for.

It is crucial to have strong support from the towing community so that we may have the greatest possible effect to raise the consciousness of motorists to the perils towers face and what they easily can do to help save lives.

The simplest way to be part of this important initiative is to visit AT SpiritRide.com and electronically submit your contact info and the level of involvement you can offer.

Thanks to the towers who have already taken the first step to make this a monumental program, one that we hope will have an everlasting impact on our industry.

United we stand, divided we fall.

It’s an old cliché, but history has proven its truth.

The Usual Suspects

by Brendan Dooley

The movie “The Usual Suspects” was on the other day and I stopped in for a bit to watch. (It’s an enjoyable gangster flick if you haven’t yet seen it.) It seems like towers too often fall into the category of “usual suspects” as well, when it comes to negative stories in the press.

Maybe that’s why it felt awesome this month to come across so many stories of towmen being covered in the news for doing good.

In the News Share section (pages 8-9) seem overloaded with positives this month. That includes an operator saving a family from a house fire, another company debuted its pink truck for breast cancer awareness, and a towman rescuing a man from a burning car.

Also in News Share, we have two towers from Mamaroneck, N.Y., who embarked on an epic road trip to tow a memorial police cruiser to honor the slain officers in Dallas, Texas, who garnered national news that put towers in a “good light” as they said.

Keep up the good work, and please keep sending us your news so we can keep sharing those stories with AT’s readers.

4 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Dennie Ortiz Steve Calitri Brendan Dooley Charles Duke

Publisher Editor-In-Chief Editor Senior Editor

Randall Resch

Operations Editor

Terry Abejuela

Field Editor, West

Jim “Buck” Sorrenti David Kolman Bill Simmons

Field Editor, Northeast Chassis Editor Safety Editor

Emily Oz

On Screen Editor

Mark Lacek

Repo Run Editor

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

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

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

Warren, N.J. Creve Coeur, Ill.

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

Page Layout Artist Advertising Sales Mgr. Senior Account Exec.

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

American Towman Media Headquarters 7 West Street, Warwick, NY 10990 800-732-3869 or 845-986-4546 E-mail: Publisher: dortiz@towman.com Editor-In-Chief: scalitri@towman.com Editor: bdooley@towman.com AT’S Digital Edition: itowman.com AT’S Website: americantowman.com AT’S Weekly: towindustryweek.com ATTV: americantowmantv.com Copyright ©2016 American Towman Magazine is published 12 times a year by American Towman Media, Inc. Subscription: $50–1 yr; $95–2 yrs • US $65 and $105 • International Editorial Policy: the act of mailing or delivering a letter or article to American Towman Magazine, shall constitute permission to publish that letter or article or any portion thereof. American Towman Magazine reserves the right to edit any and all material submitted.American Towman Media does not test or review products submitted for inclusion in its publications. All included information, specifications and abilities are as claimed by the equipment manufacturer who is solely liable for any defects or misrepresentations in its products.

Court: DMV Can Limit Fees The Connecticut State Supreme Court ruled that state regulators can limit what tow operators charge motorists when police summon them to clear highway accidents.

The high court rejected the arguments towers made to justify higher fees. The operators claimed the state can regulate the price of towing a vehicle from the scene of an accident, but not what the operators charge for preparing a vehicle for tow or what they charge for work after delivering a vehicle to a tow lot.

The court concluded that the state Department of Motor Vehicles has the authority to set fees for all services provided by tow operators in “non-consensual cases.”

Source: courant.com.

80 Drivers Cited for ‘Move Over’ Police in Framingham, Mass., recently conducted a traffic enforcement operation of the state’s Move Over law.

To test compliance, police parked a vehicle from Smitty’s Towing in Framingham on the side of Route 9.

They also parked an unmarked police cruiser in front of it to simulate a “maintenance work zone.”

“In a period of two hours, police issued citations to 80 drivers who failed to move over to the next adjacent lane, according to police. They also distributed educational flyers explaining the law.

A summary of the operation said, “The Framingham police wanted to raise awareness that this law not only applies to emergency vehicles, but also to maintenance vehicles.”

Source: framingham.wickedlocal.com.

8 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

2016 WTRAA Scholarship Awards Since 1990, the towards her education Women of the Towing at Seminole State Coland Recovery Associalege. tion of America, an auxThe process is highly iliary of the Towing and competitive with strict Recovery Association of guidelines; applications America, has awarded are reviewed for grade nearly $156,000 in scholpoint average, commuarships through its Edunity service, scholastic cation Foundation. This achievement and peryear marks 35 years of sonal statements. Those WTRAA fundraising Rachelle Lynn Marshall who did not receive a that benefits the towing scholarship are encourindustry’s young leadaged to continue to ers through education apply. scholarships.

Currently, the WTR The 2016 WTRAA AA Scholarship fund has scholarship recipients approximately $300,000 are Taylor Powell and in assets that are profesRachelle Lynn Marshall. sionally managed. Send Powell received the donations to “Pershing Ann Malcolm Award of for WTRAA Scholar$5,000 towards her eduship,” c/o Committee Taylor Powell cation at the University Chairman Belinda Harof Central Florida. Marris; 530 Farragut St., shall received the Joe Sroga and Greensboro, NC 27406.

Tom Luciano Award of $800 Source: WTRAA.

Towman Saves

Driver from Burning Car Towman Isaiah Habersham was on his way to a call when he came across a driver trapped in a burning car along the highway in Lauderhill, Fla. Habersham grabbed a small axe from his toolbox and he and another bystander smashed the windows and pulled the unconscious driver from the flames.

After breaking the windows, they opened the car door and unbuckled the man’s seatbelt, pulling him to safety. The driver woke up shortly after he was pulled from the flames.

“I tried to keep him calm and

A Florida tower recently rescued the unconscious driver of this burning vehicle. Local10.com images.

still,” Habersham said. “I stayed next to him until rescue got there.”

Source: sun-sentinel.com.

. . . I tried to keep him calm . . .

Towman Saves Family from Fire A St. Louis, Mo., towman helped save a family from an apartment building fire recently.

Around 5 a.m., the tower noticed the fire and called 911. While waiting for firefighters to arrive, he knocked on the doors of the house. When no one answered, the driver started his siren.

The noise woke up the family and they safely exited the building.

Two children were treated for smoke inhalation.

Source: fox2now.com.

Chicago Towers Must Shoot Video The Chicago (Ill.) City Council, with debate, recently approved a “towing bill of rights.”

Alderman Ameya Pawar said it’s a “game-changer” that “each relocator” must provide the Chicago Police Department with an annual list of locations where the company has an “active contract to remove unauthorized vehicles.”

The list would stipulate whether the agreement is to patrol the lot, or simply remove vehicles “upon request.”

Another requirement is that towing companies “install on-board cameras on all vehicles used to relocate unauthorized vehicles” and provide motorists with “video and audio of the tow” upon request.

The Towing Bill of Rights would require companies to post signs, spell out rates, photograph the illegally parked vehicle before it’s towed and release vehicles if the owner arrives with the keys before it is towed.

Source: chicago.suntimes.com.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

Graff Debuts Pink Raffle Truck The owners of Graff Trucking and Towing in Fawn, Pa., revealed their new pink tow truck during a local racing event in June. They bought a raffle ticket, sponsored by the Towing and Recovery Association of America and Jerr-Dan to raise money for breast cancer awareness, after reading about the truck in “American Towman” magazine.

“What caught our attention — my husband’s childhood friend was going through her treatment for breast cancer,” Virginia Graff said.

That friend, Susan Cunningham McLean, was diagnosed with Stage 2 cancer in May 2015. McLean said she was surprised and honored when she learned that not only had the Graffs entered the raffle in her honor, but added her name and the word “survivor” to the truck’s passenger door.

Virginia Graff said they intentionally brought McLean to Lernerville so she could take a few “victory laps” in the truck to celebrate the completion of her treatment.

Source: triblive.com.

N.Y. Towers Tribute to Dallas PD Two New York towmen honored the fallen officers in Dallas, Texas, by towing a police car as a memorial to the funeral and procession in the Lone Star State. It’s the same car that White Plains Police officers had made when they lost two of their own.

Police officers in Nashville, Tenn., pose with the Anthony Paniccia Jr. memorial police cruiser on its trip to Dallas, Texas, and Wesley Priano of Vinthanks to Vincent Service Station in Mamaroneck, cent Service Station in N.Y. Image courtesy of Anthony Paniccia Jr. Mamaroneck, N.Y., took the 1,600 mile road trip with a police car strapped to their Ram 5500/Century flatbed. The police car was decorated with signs of support and sympathy for the five officers gunned down in Dallas.

Different towns along their route had heard about the trip and gave them patches and badges to take along, said Paniccia. The two posted several updates on the trip, including video and pictures with different police departments along the way, on the company’s Facebook page.

In addition to showing support for the men in blue, Paniccia said their trip “puts the towing industry in a positive light.”

Sources: vincentgarage.com; fios1news.com.

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 9

Check Out What’s NEW and HOT! Multi-Functional Mobile Power

Fabco Power’s multi-function Hydro Arc 6500 JSBC is a welder, AC generator, jump-starter and battery charger. It suits the mobile power needs of service trucks and wreckers with power when and where it’s needed. It welds, generates 6,500 watts of mobile AC power with 300 DC amps. The jump-start/battery charger has 400 DC amps with constant voltage allowing MIG/TIG welding.

fabcopower.com

Fuel Tank/Toolbox Combo Transfer Flow’s new 70-gal. toolbox/fuel tank combo fits 19992016 Ford, Ram and GM full-size diesel trucks. The unit sits on the bedrails, and has an adjustable storage box that adjusts to the depth of a short- or long-bed pickup for a custom fit. The adjustable toolbox

storage area ranges from 5.5-9 cu./ft. The 70-gal. auxiliary tank transfers fuel automatically to the OEM fuel tank at predetermined levels. With the addition of Transfer Flow’s Refueling Tank Upgrade Kit, you can use the auxiliary tank as a refueling tank as well.

transferflow.com

Helios Wireless Light Lasts 18 Hours

TowMate said its new 38” Helios wireless light features a rechargeable, removable, long-lasting lithium battery system with run times of over 18 hours, and battery life

expectancy of 10 years (if cared for as recommended). The Helios includes a 12V vehicle-mounted charger. Includes lifetime warranty on electronics and LEDs.

The Gladiator In-Bed Repo Unit

D

etroit Wrecker’s new in-bed repo unit, The Gladiator, features 4,500 lbs. of lift capacity and 9,000 lbs. towing capacity. The Gladiator also offers the option to add on a boom (hydraulic or manual) and winch to increase overall capabilities. Each boom and winch package includes 100’ wire rope. The boom extends and retracts the wire rope, allowing you to guide it wherever you need to recover something.

The addition of the winch allows you to utilize recovery in just about any situation; if you need to move a car parked between a house and a sidewall, the smaller unit makes it easier to get.

Detroit Wrecker’s The Gladiator includes a lifetime warranty on pins, bushings and craftsmanship.

detroitwrecker.com

towmate.com 10 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

The Gladiator’s other features include: • Bronze Oil-Lite bushings and pins.

• Ability to tighten critical pivot points.

• Steel lines.

• Easy installation.

• Steel reinforcements.

•Available integrated bumper with DOT-approved safety chain attachments.

• Dolly storage brackets.

• Sandblasted and powdercoated.

• Negative tilt.

• Hitch receiver.

• 4’ bore lift cylinder.

• Integrated tow-light plug.

• Optional wheel grids and L-arms.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 11

A Study in Reality

by Randall C. Resch

Should a tow operator have to pay for his training, or should the boss step up?

I

t’s 3:05 in the wee morning hours and, once again, I’m not sleeping because I can’t turn off this old mind of mine. Another tow industry story is stuck in my head and there’s no sense in me pitching and tossing. I have to share this story—although in all reality—no one’s here to listen. I’ll call this, “Darren’s Story:” a driver’s tale full of ultimate truth, confusion and hopelessness. Darren’s Story is typical to the towing and recovery industry and has to be heard.

Darren’s a younger veteran in the industry and has worked for his tow boss for a long time. The story he told me might be the epitome of what most towers feel. By sharing his story, I’m bound to stir a few emotions, especially with some tow company owners. I believe his story is an important one. I met Darren last year in San Antonio, Texas, at the Tow Expo and I talk with him from time to time.

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First off, I believe Darren’s tale to be true of what he honestly feels might be borderline deception from a company that’s failed to recognize his contributions over the years. He’s 31 and not married; he has no kids. He began his towing career while still in his teens. He doesn’t have much in the way of assets. He loves his job and that’s all he’s ever wanted to do.

Working hard is a character trait he learned from his parents; he’s a proud, polite and respectful young Texan.

Chicken Feed Darren worked at a small town gas station after high school and learned to work on cars. He’s a shining star when it comes to anything mechanical.

The station’s owner (then) had three tow trucks serving the station’s back bays. It was that environment that pushed him toward a career in towing and recovery.

In his twenties, Darren gained serious skills learning how to tow and recover crashed cars. The company seemed to be doing well and there wasn’t anything else Darren wanted to do. He settled in comfortably with aspirations of becoming the best tower in his rural town.

After a few years and in search of being the best, Darren asked his owner for formal tow operator training. The answer was always, “We’ll see,” but training never happened; at some point, Darren paid for and attended formal training on his own. Recently, Darren took it upon himself to complete the National Traffic Incident Management Course on his day off and without being told to do so. He practiced techniques in the yard with other drivers, ultimately leading him to become the company’s trainer.

In the grand scheme of things, the company flourished in all its opera-

tions, now running a fleet of a dozen or so tow trucks and flatbed carriers, including two heavies and a trailer.

Darren oversees all day-to-day operations as well as helps run the gas sta-

tion. His duties include supervising the dispatch office, two satellite facilities and a U-Haul franchise. Darren’s title: tow truck driver.

“I’m overworked, poorly paid and

I don’t feel appreciated … [I get] chickenfeed for pay and I got no benefits,” he said.

Despite all this, he earned a twoyear degree in business management driving nights and some weekends.

He’s typically the first to arrive, the last to leave and called out at all hours of the night or to help other drivers with problems. For Darren, he would never call in sick because he always felt that not showing up for work lacked, “responsibility and fortitude;” all the while, never complaining about feeling overworked and underpaid.

What’s Missing?

I listened to Darren’s story and didn’t come away thinking he was whining or fabricating. I did feel there was a silent pattern of deception that allowed this to continue over the years.

Darren’s that kind of employee we tow bosses all want working for our companies; he’s the kind of employee worth cloning. His commitment and

16 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

SERVING THE TOWING AND RECOVERY INDUSTRY SINCE 1966

Exotic, High Performance or Low Clearance vehicles are no problem for Chevron’s Generation II LoadRite carriers. The LoadRite features a unique “drop deck” design with a sloped tail section that improves the load angle an additional 3 degrees. For ease in securing your load, the LoadRite option on a steel carrier features bidirectional chain locks down the inside rail every 12 inches.

personal obligation to his boss and his responsibilities seem way beyond the norm of most employees.

The way I see it, his on-going commitment and obligation should have been rewarded as part of some quiet bargain between owner and his best workers; especially after this many years. Doesn’t that make sense?

The reality is Darren has now invested a good part of his adult life as a “varsity” player on his team.

Although it seems there should be a success story herein, the company is

Good employees are hard to find and harder yet to keep. reaping the spoils of Darren’s hard work and not necessarily Darren.

Darren feels particularly underappreciated when he sees the owner driving around in a Ford dually just short of a monster truck and living in a mega house while he drives a “beater

Nissan” and lives in a small house across town. And the company is looking to add two more trucks to the fleet soon.

It seems like Darren is getting the short end of the stick. He poured his guts out; it’s a sad story and one that’s consistent and regrettably true to our industry. There’s a simple universal truth here that, some employees are overachieving, hardworking and honest people. They have great respect for their company and owners, perhaps to the negative.

While it’s not in Darren’s chemistry to complain, he’s finally realized that he’s headed nowhere. It’s certainly his quandary—one that many towers and tow company employees experience—no chance for better pay or to advance.

Avenues of Change He now faces a decision only he can make. Starting over at 31 is a huge consideration for him. I wasn’t able to convince him to have a face-to-face talk with his boss because he’s quiet

18 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

and non-confrontational. I explained that open conversation doesn’t have to be aggressive and his honest concerns should openly be discussed. By not discussing his needs or concerns, he’s leading himself toward further despair that only can stir and fester.

Darren’s sense of being taken advantage of is shrinking his motivation, his sense of obligation and his feelings of self worth. It’s obvious that Darren is hurting over this and he has

much soul searching to do in making a choice to either stay or move on.

I’ve offered Darren my guidance; as I’ve taken on this unofficial position as his advocate, I have to ask, “What can be done to save this relationship?”

For the tow owners reading this, do consider the heartfelt struggle that Darren wrestles with. Sometimes emotions get in the way of reasonable conversation and compromise. The bigger picture here is simple: good employees

are hard to find and harder yet to keep.

In my many years in this business, I’ve learned that when companies fail to meet an employee’s reasonable needs, disgruntled employees tend to not care. A person of Darren’s drive, motivation and commitment won’t pass through your doors very often.

While seeking greener pastures may seem like one option, Darren could leave and drop into a company far worse than where he is now. No matter what, it’s a gamble he has to consider based on what’s right for him.

Darren’s pain is the reality of the industry. He’s given of himself in many ways. If Darren’s worth keeping, perhaps something can be done to strike an amicable resolution.

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.

Email Randy at rreschran@gmail.com.

20 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Anchoring Techniques

by Terry Abejuela

W

hen performing vehicle recovery work you must be able to keep the recovery vehicle from moving. Your truck must provide enough resistance to overcome the recovery resistance in order to move the casualty to the desired location.

If you are not able to provide enough anchor resistance, the truck will move instead of the casualty.

There are many techniques for anchoring the tow truck and/or using a deadman to transfer some resistance off of the tow truck.

Some trucks were designed to use scotch blocks to increase the anchorability of the tow truck (above).

Man-made anchors may include other vehicles, heavy equipment, concrete blocks and more (left).

Anchoring Any techniques used to anchor the tow truck should be in compliance with the manufacturer’s recommended procedures. It is generally accepted that you will be able to provide about 60 percent to 70 percent of the tow truck’s weight in anchorability by locking up all the wheels of the tow truck (depending on the surface where the truck is staged).

This can be accomplished by using a combination of the emergency brake and a supplemental braking system. The emergency brake should always be used in conjunction with supplemental braking.

For example, a Ford F-450 Super Duty tow truck will weigh approximately 11,000 lbs. If you can keep the wheels from rolling, you will be able to generate 6,600 lbs. to 7,700 lbs. of anchorability on most surfaces.

The tow truck will be the most stable as an anchor when pulling directly off the rear of the tow truck. The tow truck will not be as effective of an anchor when performing side pulls.

Some trucks were designed to use scotch blocks to increase the anchorability of the tow truck. These trucks 22 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

may have a keyhole slot at the bottom of the rear tailboard in line with the rear dual wheels. Scotch blocks often have a chain attached to them that is placed in the keyhole slot.

Once the scotch block is placed behind the rear dual wheels and the chain attached to the tailboard, the truck is backed onto the scotch block until the chain is tight. Scotch blocks should not be used on surfaces where damage may occur such as asphalt. They work best on dirt surfaces where damage is not an issue and the blocks are able to dig into the dirt surface for more holding power.

The downside of most scotch blocks is that they are fairly heavy.

If scotch blocks are not available, or using them would cause damage to the surface, wheel chocks or lumber can be used to block the wheels of the tow truck. Although not as effective as scotch blocks, they may in some cases be enough to get the job done.

Some tow trucks are equipped with outriggers that may significantly increase the anchorability for side pulls. On

dual-winch trucks, you may be able to utilize the second winch line to attach to an anchor on the opposite side of the truck to anchor for a side pull.

Attaching the front end of the truck to an immovable object for anchoring can result in damage to the frame of the tow truck. I also do not recommend the use of the wheel lift as an anchor unless it is approved by the original equipment manufacturer.

Some aftermarket anchoring devices attach to the wheel lift—check for approved use of them with the towing equipment manufacturer.

Deadmen When the tow truck is not able to produce enough resistance to move the casualty, you will need to distribute some of the casualty’s resistance to other anchors. These may include natural or manmade anchors. The easiest to use are natural anchors provided they are located where you need them.

Natural anchors may include trees or large boulders. When choosing an object to use as an anchor, keep in mind that it may be difficult to accu-

24 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

rately determine how much resistance it will produce. Use anchors that would not create an unsafe condition if they move.

If you decide you must utilize a tree as an anchor, keep in mind that someone may own the tree and it will not have a ratings tag. I recommend that you request permission to use any trees.

Make sure to take precautions to avoid damage to all trees. Use a wide synthetic strap and place it around the base of the tree along with pieces of lumber between the strap and the tree.

Rubber mats can also be used to protect the tree. You may be able to distribute the load between more than one tree by using lumber between the trees and attaching to the lumber.

Man-made anchors may include other vehicles, heavy equipment, commercially sold or homemade anchors, rock anchors and more. Remember to request permission to utilize any anchors not owned by the recovery company.

The U.S. Department of the Army Field Manual 20-22 has several ideas for fabricating anchors using the nat-

ural surroundings. These include a picket, parachute trap and burying an object such as a spare tire, log or piece of 4x4 lumber. To utilize some of these techniques, I recommend that you carry a good shovel for digging, sledge hammer, at least four 36” long or longer metal tent stakes, a strong and large tarp with as many grommets as you can get, and some synthetic rope with a working load limit of at least 3,500 lbs.

The problem with these techniques is the amount of work and time it takes to prepare them and not being able to accurately determine how much resistance they will produce. When you need to get the job done though, they may be your only choice.

For recovery work to be successful, the tow operator will need to calculate the amount of recovery resistance and utilize the appropriate anchoring techniques for the tow truck.

Field Editor Terry Abejuela has 30plus years of light-duty towing-andrecovery experience. He is also a light-duty Level 1 instructor for the California Tow Truck Association.

BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)

Your company may be held responsible if these devices are used improperly and you have no guidelines in place.

For example, in the event of an accident occurring because a driver was texting while driving.

by Don Archer

D

id you know that if your employees are using their own devices while working for you, and you don’t have policies in place that restrict certain behavior, you can be held liable?

As an employer of tow truck operators, you are responsible for making certain they are not engaging in unsafe acts while on the road. To meet that responsibility, you must require drivers to operate trucks safely, not to drink and drive, use drugs and to refrain from texting or using personal, or company-provided devices in a way that takes their attention off the roads.

But do you have a policy that addresses all this?

“Bring Your Own Device” policies are relatively new. They were created with the intent of keeping proprietary company information secure while allowing employees to use their own devices to access information required to do the job.

26 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Allowing employees to use their own devices can be a challenge.

On the employee’s side, being allowed to access company information from multiple locations is a plus. They’re allotted more freedom and autonomy rather than being tied to a desk.

Allowing employees to use their own devices can be a challenge; but with a BYOD policy in place, the employer has the ability to monitor behavior, and to “wipe clean” any company information from an employee’s personal device when a separation occurs. This is done so that an employee cannot use the informa-

tion to harm the company … such as going to the competition with the customer list.

Although some of the security issues mentioned above aren’t a huge cause for concern in the towing industry, there are two reasons why towing business owners will want to have a BYOD policy in place. They are: safety, and to “cover your rear.”

Safety If you allow or require tow truck operators to communicate through the use of either company-provided or personal devices, you must have policies in place that govern their use to ensure safety at all times.

When drivers know their cellphones may be audited should they be involved in an accident, they end up acting more responsibly. Your BYOD policy works to minimize negative

continue to page 80

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 27

Car in the

Passaic

Operator John Sagun Jr. went out on the dive team boat to rig the submerged car using nylon endless loops.

A Mystery Unfolds During a River Recovery 30 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

by Jim “Buck” Sorrenti

N

ick’s Towing Service in Rutherford, N.J., founded by Nicholas “Nick” F. Testa has grown to become an industry leader.

Nick’s now has more than 30 employees and runs 30 pieces of equipment serving 48 states.

In January, Nick’s was called by the Wallington Police to recover a vehicle from

The Century rotator first lifts the car from the river allowing the water to drain to make the final lift lighter.

the Passaic River after it went through a parking lot and over a riverbank and dropped approximately 50 feet into the river. The driver, a 22-year-old woman, was tragically killed in this accident.

The submerged car was not discovered for two days.

Once the car was rigged, it was lifted slowly out of the water and brought to the river bank.

The search began when the Wallington Police were dispatched on a report of property damage. A local resident stated that his guardrail and fence were damaged. Upon checking the area, officers saw pieces of what appeared to be a vehicle, loose dirt and shifted brush. There were no visible signs of the vehicle in the Passaic River, but the Wallington Scuba Team was deployed and they located the submerged vehicle.

The 1998 Mitsubishi Galant was found on its roof with the front of the car pointing towards the embankment.

Nick’s was called on Saturday afternoon to recover the vehicle.

Nick’s dispatched team leader Tom Prince Jr., and operators Anthony Picciano, John Sagun Jr. and Tim Panico; trucks included a 2007 Century 1075S 75-ton rotator, Nick’s emergency response vehicle with a fully equipped recovery trailer and a Century flatbed.

“With the cooperation and help of the Wallington and Lyndhurst (New Jersey) dive teams, as well as the Wallington Police and Bergen County Prosecutors office, a strategy for the recovery was put into place with our recovery team,” Nick said.

Sagun was sent down a ladder to a dive team boat and transported to the submerged vehicle where he was able to rig it using nylon endless loops.

“All communication between our recovery team, as well as some emergency responders, was done with our wireless headset,” Nick said. “Once the car was rigged, it was lifted slowly out of

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TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 31

Once in the parking lot, they used a line from the flatbed to hold the car as they rotated and lowered it with the rotator to place it on the ground for the initial police investigation.

the water and brought to the river bank to respectfully do the extrication of the deceased.”

Once the body of the young woman was removed from the vehicle, the Century 75-ton rotator first lifted the car above the river, allowing the water to drain from the vehicle and make the final lift lighter.

The vehicle was then lifted up and over some pine trees to the parking lot. They hooked a cable from the flatbed to the front of the car to hold it as they let the wire rope out and rotated the boom at the same time to put the vehicle on the ground for the initial police investigation.

After packing up their equipment, the vehicle was transported to Nick’s storage facility and secured for further investigation.

“This was a great team effort by all emergency responders under extremely tragic cir- Jim “Buck” Sorrenti, a longtime editor of American Towman, has been our field edicumstances,” Nick tor for the past few years. He is a freelance said. “Our prayers go writer and photographer with more than out to the family of the 40 years of experience covering motorcycle, hot rod, truck and towing culture. He young woman.” writes weekly for TowIndustryWeek.com.

32 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Jerr-Dan Adds Service, Sales Staff Jerr-Dan Corp. (jerrdan.com) recently added Randal Hartman, Sherard Pooler, Evan Landauer and Richard Guttmann to its staff. The company’s new “Tow Support” initiative will take their customer service division to a whole new level, according to a release.

Pooler and Hartman will become District Service Managers, a new position at Jerr-Dan. They will report to Director of Aftermarket Support, Mike VanAken. Landauer is an Inside Sales Associate who will report to Jerr-Dan Senior Director of Sales and Marketing, Jeffrey Irr.

Randal Hartman

Sherard Pooler

Guttman is Jerr-Dan’s new Senior Product Coordinator, and is wellversed in towing and recovery. He received a Commendation from American Towman in 2013 for his work.

Guttmann will report to Shane Coleman, Heavy Duty Product Manager.

Evan Landauer

Richard Guttmann

“Our distributor network and customers come first, and to ensure that we can serve our growing customer base to the best of our ability, we’ve expanded Tow Support and our sales team,” said Irr.

Landoll Donates Trailer to Museum

Don Landoll, owner and founder of Landoll Corp. (landoll.com), announced the company has donated a 2017 Model 440A-50 Hydraulic Traveling Axle trailer to the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum for its Sept.

8 benefit auction in Chattanooga, Tenn.

Landoll said that the company and their primary vendors have combined to make this possible.

“The proceeds from this donation will continue the preservation of an industry that Landoll has been proud to be part of for over 40 years,” said Landoll.

Each year the ITRHFM conducts a live auction to raise money for the ongoing activities of the museum and Hall of Fame.

“It’s exciting to have such great partners as Landoll” said Thomas Tedford, a museum board member.

“It’s important that we showcase larger items that have played an important role in today’s towing operations.”

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TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 33

AD INDEX

August 2016

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34 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

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Driveline Buddy W 87 Dual-Tech Wreckers & Carriers 56 Dynamic Towing Equipment & Mfg. 20 ECM Performance 58 Elizabeth Truck Center 16 Equipment Sales & Services N 88 Ford Commercial Truck 12, 13 G. Stone Commercial N 87 Ginn Carrier & Wrecker Sales 61 Great Lakes Regional Tow Show M 85 Insurance Auto Auctions (IAA) 73 Int’l Tow & Rec. Hall of Fame/Museum 53 Intek Truck Equipment/Leasing 54 Isuzu Commercial Trucks 5 Jerr-Dan Corp.

92 Kavanaugh’s Towing Equip.

M 83 Kenworth of South Florida 27 Lift & Tow 54 Loganville Ford 68 Lynch Chicago 51 Manufacturer Express 34 Matheny Motor Truck Co. 55 McMahon Truck Center M 87 Midwest Regional Tow Show 71 Miller Industries 6, 7 New England Truckmaster N 85 North American Bancard 25 Northeast Wrecker Sales N 88 Null’s Sales & Services 20

Page#

Pacific General Insur. Agency M 83 Performance Advantage W 84 Quick Draw Tarpaulin 16 Recovery Billing Unlimited 58 Recovery Specialist Ins. Group (RSIG) 77 Renew Truck Body N 85 Rush Towing Systems 63 Safety Vision 21 Santander Bank 91 SavaCOMM 70 Savatech 23, 67 Sea Crest Insurance Agency W 87 Select Truck & Equipment M 84 Smyrna Truck Center S 85 Specialty Veh. Eq. & Funding Group 15 Steck Mfg. 52 Superwinch LLC 77 TLC Truck & Equipment S 83 Tow Industries 76 Towman Hero Award 66 TowMate 64 Triple K Industries 58 Truck Body Sales W 88 Utility Trailer Sales S.E.TX W 88 VTS Systems W 85 Warn Industries 27 Western Truck Insurance 58 WorldClass Insurance Services W 84 Worldwide Equipment 28, 29 Zacklift International 2

Entrepreneurs Develop Container Transport Gary Gates and Chris Christiansen have invented a way to pick up, move and drop off any size International Standards Organization shipping container with nothing more than a tow truck and their own small inventions.

These metal containers can weigh anywhere between about 3,000 lbs. and 11,000 lbs. depending on the length and height. They’ve created a customized tow truck equipped with a container dolly, heavy-duty center stands and a metal device that hooks onto the tow truck’s hydraulics system and locks into a shipping container’s corner castings.”

We essentially turn [the shipping container] into its own trailer,” Christiansen said. “No one has ever done this before.”

Christiansen has been field-testing the prototype equipment using a tow truck provided by his employer, Tri-City Towing, for about seven months.

Source: dcourier.com.

Dispatching by Text Message MercurySend (mercurysend.com) provides a way for dispatch to login from a laptop, tablet or desktop to create template messages, create different users, read all texts sent

continue to page 54

52 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

SUPPLIER SCOOP cont. from pg. 52 and received, monitor usage and create group texts for important team member messages.

The company’s system is a modern, cost-effective and verifiable way for dispatchers to maintain constant communications by text message.

Text message reaches every phone model and every phone plan, making it the most reliable way to reach all your customers, anywhere.

Most everyone reads their text messages, making it more reliable than phone calls and email. It has proven to be a time-saving way to follow up with customers and measure feedback in real time.

App Complies with Calif. Rules Auto Data Direct launched its DropClaim.com, a secure, paperless compliance tool for California tow operators and businesses taking possession of towed vehicles.

continue to page 56

54 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

SUPPLIER SCOOP cont. from pg. 54 In January 2016, new state requirements became effective as a result of passage of California Assembly Bill 1222. The new law requires specific documentation and record keeping between a tow company and any business such as a dealership, body shop, or mechanic that takes possession of a towed vehicle.

DropClaim.com is a web-based mobile app that allows affected industries to comply with the new law using their laptop, smartphone, or desktop computer while securely protecting any private information included in the transfer of a vehicle.

Higher Pressure Pump for FR66 PTO Applications utilizing Muncie Power’s FR66 Series power take-off (munciepower.com) can now use Muncie’s Optimum W Series gear pump’s higher operating pressures, due to new modifications to the pump’s housing.

continue to page 58

56 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

SUPPLIER SCOOP cont. from pg. 56 The W Series’ design allows for its higher operating pressures, which are greater than that of typical gear pump applications. W Series gear pumps can operate at pressures up to 4,350 psi. The modified W Series gear pump can only be used on Ford’s F650 and F-750 chassis.

Drag-and-Drop Dispatch App Goose is a new mobile app (trygoose.com) for towing fleet management that’s built on the FieldLogix telematics platform used by companies throughout the U.S. Dispatchers use Goose to see the current locations of their drivers along with the locations of their service calls on a Google map. They can drag and drop the service calls to assign them to the nearest driver.

The jobs are then sent to the drivers’ smartphones, providing them with essential information for their calls including turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic, and the ability to send ETAs to customers.

58 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Mid-Air Tractor End Roll

By Kurt Wilson Joe’s Towing and Recovery; Creve Coeur, Ill.

2015 Donnie Cruse Recovery Award for Light Duty Joe’s Towing in Creve Coeur, Ill., sent a Century rotator and Chevron rollback to a tractor with mowing attachment rolled over into a drainage ditch.

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

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

60 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

O

ur recovery team received a call to upright a tractor that had rolled over while cutting grass along a waterway in August 2014. The customer explained that the bank gave way causing the tractor and cutting deck to rollover. And unlike most cus-

tomers that say, “I’m just off the road,” or “she’s leaning a bit,” this customer was very upfront and honest with the details of the scene.

Based off the information that the customer provided, we decided to send our 2000 Kenworth/2005 Century 1060 rotator and 2012 Ken-

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TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 61

We engaged both winch lines Loading the mower deck onto the flatbed.

evenly and raised the boom. worth/Chevron Series 20 rollback to complete the recovery. We estimated the tractor to be between 4 tons to 5 tons, so were well within the capacities of our rigging.

The first step was to disconnect the mower deck from the tractor and remove all hydraulic lines. We used the rotator to lift and rotate the mower deck onto the road and back the Chevron under for transport.

Next we connected a 3/4� chain to the front axle and the rear axle of the tractor and began lifting. We engaged both winch lines evenly

62 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Once they rigged the tractor (left), they rotated it around the back of the wrecker before executing a mid-air roll before pivoting the tractor to face rearward behind the rotator (right).

and raised the boom, making sure the cab of the tractor would clear the bank when rotated.

Once the tractor was high enough to clear the bank, we began rotating

64 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

the tractor until it was around the rear of the rotator.

There we executed a mid-air end roll by engaging the winch line connected to the front axle. In order to

keep the rotation close to the ground, we released the rear line while continuing to engage the front line.

Once the tractor was perpendicular to the ground, the tractor was low-

Loading the tractor for removal to the roadway and final transport.

ered so the rear wheels were in contact with the ground. The rear chain was disconnected and we locked the rear wheels.

We engaged the rotation clockwise causing the front axle to begin its descent to the ground, and boomed in to lower the front of the tractor.

Before letting it touch the ground,

66 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

we rotated it counter-clockwise and set the tractor directly behind the rotator.

The final step was to move the tractor to the roadway where it was loaded on a Landoll trailer and transported off the scene.

“This recovery was selected because of its unique circumstances

and out of the box thinking,” said WreckMaster President Justin Cruse.

“Well done.”

Though a rotator was used in this “light duty” recovery, WreckMaster determines its award classifications based on the casualty’s weight. —Ed.

Talbert Names Top 10 Dealers Talbert Manufacturing (talbertmfg.com) named Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel of Voorhees, N.J., as its top dealer for the eighth straight year. This award recognizes a Talbert dealer for high performance in selling trailers, service and parts.

“Hale’s talented team continues to provide customers with an array of stock trailers and rentals, along with superior parts and service. It’s easy to see why they continue to lead our North American dealer network year after year,” said Troy Geisler, Talbert VP of sales and marketing.

Talbert also named Pinnacle of Wilmington, N.C., as its Most Improved Dealer of 2015. The other top dealers include: • Columbus Equipment Co.; Columbus, Ohio.

• Freightliner; Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo, Mich.

• Highway Trailer Sales; Kansas City, Mo. • Leslie Equipment Co.; Cowen, W. Va. • Lucky’s Trailer Sales; South Royalton, Vt. • Lynch Chicago; Bridgeview, Ill. • Remorques Lewis Inc.; Quebec, Canada.

• TNT Sales; Villa Ridge, Mo.

68 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

New Offices for Specialty Vehicle Specialty Vehicle & Equipment Funding Group (easternfunding.com) has moved into its new offices at 175 Broadhollow Road, Suite 120, in Melville, N.Y. As business has expanded, Specialty has bolstered its team with new hires in its sales and operations groups.

“We were growing out of our previous space and needed new offices that could accommodate our larger team. Our new state-of-the-art offices provide a base from which we can more effectively help entrepreneurs obtain financing to move their businesses forward,” said Peter Ferrara Jr., Specialty’s national sales manager.

ECCO Names New CEO Doug Phillips became the Chief Executive Officer of ECCO Safety Group (eccosafetygroup.com), effective July 1. ECCO brands include Code 3, an emergency lighting and lightbars manufacturer. He will lead strategy, leverage his extensive business experience and leadership skills, and expand on ESG’s growth.

“We have talented people and great teams around the world, and that’s why I’m so excited about this role,” Doug explains. “My vision is to be sure we get the right strategy, the proper structure and process, and really focus on driving those few critical objectives to success.”

70 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Prep for Commercial Repo

by Mark Lacek

Y

ou have located the truck you have been looking to repossess ... now what? The following is excerpted from my Certified Commercial Certification Program.

Pre-Recovery Prep 1. When walking up to a truck about to be repossessed, it is important to do a walk around pre-trip inspection. Federal law states you must conduct a pre-trip inspection; but in the repossession process there is not always sufficient time to perform a complete pre-trip inspection. ‌ The following is a recovery pre-trip inspection for the purposes of completing the commercial repossession process only to remove the asset from the property of the debtor, and is not a complete DOT-approved inspection.

On your approach to the truck, visualize the top, bottom, sides, front and back of the truck. This will require a complete walk around of the truck.

While walking up to the asset, identify where the battery box is located, as you will need to refer back to the battery location later. Look up at the height and confirm that neither the asset nor any loaded items are over the legal limit.

Next, look under the asset to confirm there is nothing hanging, dragging or leaking. Look at the tires to determine if any are flat or missing.

Look at the amount of tread and give the tire a kick to determine if the tire is separated from the rim.

Look at the rear of the asset and check for an open or unlatched door.

Look at the rear lights, license plate and mud flaps. Make certain the asset is not attached to any objects with a chain, cable or rope. If there is a rear or 72 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Keys to commercial vehicles can often be obtained by visiting the local dealer parts department.

side door, check for a lock or a seal. A sealed door usually represents something is inside the compartment. Look for stickers or placards on the exterior walls of the asset to determine if the asset contains hazardous materials.

If the asset contains hazardous materials, it is critical that you abandon the recovery attempt and immediately notify your client.

Next, check the passenger side of the asset for damage or unfamiliar items. Look at the passenger window and mirrors. Look for broken or damaged items. Notice if the door is locked or if the window is up or down. Next, walk across the front of the asset checking for loose or missing items and check under the front of the asset for hanging items.

Unlatch and lift the hood if possible. Check to determine if the engine is complete or under repair with parts

As you inspect the truck to be reposeesed, look at the tires to determine if any are flat or missing; look at the amount of tread and give the tire a kick to determine if the tire is separated from the rim.

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TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 73

missing. Become aware of any hand tools sitting on top of tires or the radiator housing. This is an indication of ongoing repairs.

Most often batteries are inside a battery box. The battery box cover is attached to the battery box by rubber straps located on the sides of the box.

Disconnect the straps and look in the box to determine if the batteries are in place or missing. Look at the battery connections for corrosion. Look for a power on/off switch, as debtors will sometimes install an aftermarket on/off switch to deter theft or repossession. This switch is sometimes installed at the factory to keep the batteries from becoming drained because of an accessory left on in the cab such as lights or a CB radio. After inspecting the batteries, replace the cover and re-attach the straps. If no battery box is located, check if batteries are hidden behind the side panels or side skirts. It is recommended that the recovery agent become familiar with the locations of the batteries in all of the different makes and models of trucks and

74 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

other commercial assets.

During the walkaround, the recovery agent should look for the Vehicle Identification Number to verify the asset is the one on the repossession order. This VIN can be in different locations depending on the make and model of the asset. Since commercial vehicles require annual inspections, the inspection will have the VIN recorded on the vehicle. This sticker will be located on or near the driver’s door of the asset, often near the door handle. It is important to understand the checking of this sticker should be used for secondary identification only.

The VIN is placed on the inspection sticker by the person conducting the inspection and not by the factory. The agent should also look to the outside of the asset for a VIN applied by the DOT number. This number is also applied by a third party and not by the factory. Only factory-installed VINs are acceptable in the verification process of an asset. The recovery agent should check vehicle manufacturer specifications for locations of VINs

before attempting to complete a commercial asset recovery inspection.

It is advised to always complete a federal DOT-approved pre-trip inspection prior to moving any commercial vehicle.

When preparing to do a pre-trip inspection you must check to see that the parking brakes are on and/or tires are chocked. Anytime you are going to get out of the truck, or anytime you will be near the truck in general, you want to make sure the parking brake is on so always check the parking brake first.

2. Entry into the commercial truck is completed in several ways. Keys to commercial vehicles can often be obtained by visiting the local dealer parts department. Many Freightliner dealers have the ability to make a key on the spot. Showing a copy of the vehicle title or a repossession assignment from the lender will be required.

Door entry can be completed by use of a number of tools; knowledge of the latest information in entry tools is

continued to page 76

Doggone Truck

D

ogs are a man’s best friend, and sometimes make for a tower’s favorite passenger.

Josh Ingold, owner of Hound Dog’s Towing and Recovery in Columbus, Ohio, found inspiration in his three basset hounds, naming the company in their honor and branding his tow trucks to reflect that.

“People remember the name Hound Dog’s,” he said. “They remember our company, which is important.”

As far as the dogs go, “they used to ride along with me,” Ingold said. “We don’t take them out any longer, as they are getting up there in age and can’t deal with the longer car rides. Fifteen to 20 minutes and they are ready to go home. But they used to go out with me all of the time.”

Ingold began towing in college to

Tech Highlights Chassis: 2001 Ford F-650.

Wrecker: Jerr-Dan 21’ aluminum rollback.

Engine: 5.9l Cummins diesel.

Trans: Ford six-speed manual.

Winches: Ramsey 8,000 lbs.

Graphics: Kevin Everhart.

pay bills. After some 20 years of towing for someone else, he decided to start Hound Dog’s in 2013 and has added three employees and four trucks to his pack.

A year ago, he added this 2001 Ford F-650/Jerr-Dan 21’ aluminum rollback for his changing client base.

Originally doing more repossession

by George L. Nitti

work, he now does more regular tows and private-property impounds. He has some self-loaders for the PPI and occasional repo.

His friend Kevin Everhart, a photographer and designer, designed the truck’s graphics that include pictures of each of his three pups—Daisy May, Ruby and Peppy—on the cab windows.

On the back of the flatbed is a graphic reminding motorists to Slow Down and Move Over.

“We’ve all have had our share of close calls,” he said. “I’ve had mirrors bump my elbow and had to jump out of the way. Just two months ago, someone got so close a mirror brushed my shirt, but thankfully missed me.”

Editor’s note This truck was originally featured in a Tow Illustrated column on TowIndustryWeek.com. To have your trucks considered for TIW or here in print in American Towman magazine, email some pics and details to bdooley@towman.com.

George L. Nitti has written for American Towman since 2009.

He started out as a news writer and now writes a weekly feature on TowIndustryWeek.com, Tow Illustrated, which spotlights the tow truck graphics.

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TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 75

REPO RUN continued from page 74 recommended. Most over-the-road trucks can be started by “picking” the ignition. However, some assets will require switching out the ignition completely. Also, some assets will require removal of part of the steering column cover if keys are not available.

There are a number of books available that provide a comprehensive list of entry and starting methods for both commercial and non-commercial vehicles.

When entering the asset to start the engine and inspect inside the cab, you must make sure the parking brake is on and put the gearshift in neutral (or park if automatic). When you start the engine, it is important that you listen for unusual noises.

3. Look at the gauges … the oil pressure gauge should come up to normal. Unlike automobile repossessions, most commercial vehicles have an oil pressure and/or temperature gauge and it should only take a few seconds for the engine to build oil pressure. If you start the engine and the oil pressure doesn’t come up to normal within approximately 10 sec-

76 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

onds, something is wrong and you should shut the engine down immediately, as an engine is very expensive.

Under such circumstances, it is possible the truck is in the process of being repaired.

4. Look under the hood. In situations where the truck has been parked for more than a few hours, it always helps to open the hood and check to determine if the engine is complete.

There have been many occasions where the recovery agent opens the hood only to find the engine is apart, under repair or even removed.

5. You should check all of the following for slack, sticking, damage or improper settings: steering wheel, accelerator, brake and clutch pedals, transmission controls. Always make sure that all of the controls seem to be operating properly before driving.

6. After inspecting mirrors and windshields for cracks, dirt, illegal stickers or other obstructions to your vision, you should clean and adjust as necessary. Always make sure your mirrors are adjusted properly before

you start driving. It is annoying, and can be quite dangerous, to begin driving and then discover that your mirrors are not adjusted properly.

7. When checking lights, the recovery agent should make sure the parking brake is on and then exit the vehicle after turning on the headlights and four-way flashers. Brake lights can be checked from inside the cab if it is dark since the rear of the truck or trailer will light up at night when lights are functioning. If you are alone and have the time, back up to a loading dock or another stationary object.

Even in the daylight it is possible to see the reflection of turning signals and brake lights.

8. Wheel bearing seals should be checked for hub oil levels and no visible leaking. Oftentimes on a tractortrailer, if the wheel bearing seals are leaking you will find a lot of hub oil either laying in the rim or covering the rim. You may also notice dry or black residue on the rim. This is frequently from the brake shoes. If you see a lot of this substance on one rim as compared

with the other rims, it could be a sign that the brake is adjusted too tightly and the shoe is dragging hard. It is wise to pull over when it is safe and carefully place your hand on the wheel checking to see if it is hot to the touch. Heat is a clear indication there is a problem.

9. Red reflective triangles should be carried in every commercial vehicle. The rule is three of these triangles should be in the truck at all times. A commercial recovery agent should carry a set of these triangles in his work vehicle at all times in the event a truck he is repossessing is not properly equipped. Remember, these reflective triangles are for safety reasons, as well as being required by law.

10. On some occasions, the asset is running and the driver just stepped out to walk inside a truck stop or delivery location. It is important that a recovery agent attempting the recovery at this time must have his exit strategy and route pre-planned. The objective is to perform a legal, peaceful recovery. Pulling the collateral out of the parking lot Repo Editor Mark Lacek authored the only to find yourCertified Commercial Recovery self in bumperAgent certification program and to-bumper has more than 30 years of recovery experience. He is the former editor traffic increases of “Professional Repossessor” magathe chances of a zine. Email him at Mark@commercialassetsolutions.com. confrontation with the debtor.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • 77

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TOW MANAGER continued from page 26 behavior and create a safer working environment.

Cover Your Rear Second only to safety is that your company may be held responsible if these devices are used improperly and you have no guidelines in place. For example, in the event of an accident occurring because a driver was texting while driving.

When you implement a policy that gives YOU access to your employees’ phones, there’s a chance you’ll scare some of them off. To avoid scaring away good employees, you must first create a policy that’s easily understood. And when your policy is in place and it becomes necessary to enforce it, do so in a way that you’d want it enforced upon you if the tables were turned.

Your policy should: Detail specific instances for its use.

Vague and ambiguous language will

put-off good employees and be picked apart by an attorney, if you’re ever taken to court. A good example of specific language: “Management reserves the right to request employees’ cell phone bills and usage reports for calls and messaging made during working hours to determine if use is excessive or if any other policy/procedure has been violated (ex: texting while driving).”

Discuss boundaries and refrain from going outside those boundaries.

If you’re ever required to use the BYOD, have a discussion with your employee to let him know exactly what you are looking for—then stick to it. Don’t delve into areas not specified in your policy. If you’ve told him that you’re only looking at texts during a specified time and date, don’t stray into personal emails.

Explain that the policy is in place to protect them as well. Most tow truck drivers don’t understand how having

a BYOD policy can serve to protect them. But, if they’re ever involved in any type of incident and are required to appear in court, the judge and opposing attorneys will ask for and expect all relevant data pertaining to the circumstances. Not having that information can be detrimental to their case. If they’ve done nothing wrong, having a BYOD policy can remove any shadow of doubt and clear them of any wrongdoing.

Having a BYOD policy goes a long way in deterring negative behavior.

With such a policy, you can minimize exposure for your business while maintaining safety on the roads.

Don G. Archer is a multi-published author, educator and speaker helping others to build and start successful towing businesses around the country at TheTowAcademy.com. Don and his wife, Brenda, formerly owned and operated Broadway Wrecker in Jefferson City, Mo. He is the Tow Business Editor for Tow Industry Week; email him direct at don@thetowacademy.com.

Spirit Ride Map is Up

T

owers now signing up for the American Towman Spirit Ride will be able to see a map showing which companies across the country have signed up to participate so far. The map is updated weekly at ATSpiritRide.com.

The route the Spirit Ride will take will most likely be determined by the number and location of the signups. The route would likely zigzag up and down and across the nation. Participating towers will carry the Spirit Casket on a carrier bed, relaying it from tower to the next. Escorts of police and fire vehicles will be invited as well as tow trucks wishing to join the procession. The signup page at ATSpiritRide.com presents options for participation.

The Spirit Ride was initiated by B/A Products and American Towman to promote the Move-Over laws across the nation to the general motoring public. The Ride's goal is to attract media attention through traditional mass media outlets and press, and social media. The projected target date for launching the Ride from the West Coast is AprilMay of 2017.

ATSpiritRid­­e.com

The Greatest Show of All Time Of Any Industry...Of Any Kind

by Steve Calitri

W

ho would dispute it? Not P.T. Barnum himself. He shot men out of cannons and put husband and wife on the high wire. American Towman spotlights heroes who’ve rappelled down bridges and cliffs … and puts on shows that suspend cars in midair across hundred foot spans.

Not the NFL’s Roger Goodell with his Super Bowl. He needs rock stars, the U.S. Air Force, leggy cheerleaders and instant replay to keep the fans’ attention for three hours. AT Expo needs none of that to keep towers rapt for three days.

Who would dispute the spectacle of AT Expo?

Not the Macy’s ThanksgivingDay Parade organizers.

After all, our attendees walk around our floats and interact with them. Their attendees Google and eat popcorn.

Not the impresarios who produced America’s Bicentennial with all the fireworks, tall ships and musical hoopla. We’ve got our own music, our own waterfront and our own Centennial Celebration. Ours represents keeping America moving so it can get to its next centennial.

Who would or could dispute that the American Towman Exposition XXVIII is the Greatest Show of All Time?

When the Mercury space program launched its first man into outer 82 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

space, people gathered, not knowing how it would turn out; then the rocket shot up into the sky and out of sight.

Event over. Towers come to AT Expo, not knowing for sure how it’s all going to turn out, even though there’s a schedule of events. But towers don’t know for sure what they are going to see and witness as they orbit the show floor. During AT Expo, the attendees are the astronauts on an unforgettable ride. If you’ve never been, you may be rolling your eyes. Those who have been are smiling.

Certainly no other trade show of any industry puts on the kind of show American Towman does in Baltimore.

From the Grand Opening marching band to the legendary hospitality culminating with Sunday Pie, from the March of the Heroes to the p h a n t a s magoric display of art in the Pageant Hall; from our industry’s special forces training on big rotators to the booms reaching to the ceiling on the exhibit floor, from the Medals to the music, the learning and the camaraderie—no other event holds a candle to the American Towman Exposition.

And I haven’t even mentioned the Towman Monument, the Towman Ballads, the Mural spanning a city block, the American Towman Chopper, and all our friends who come to be part of it.

There's wealth of good American Towman TV presented by Emily Oz on TowIndustryWeek.com. Oz covers timely topics like AAA Minnesota's public service message that used the video footage from cameras perched on wreckers to show the need for motorists to slow down and move over. After watching this story one has to wonder why one to two towers a week get clipped by passing traffic and not hundreds. The video underscores the extreme risk towers face each moment working the roadways. American Towman urges tow bosses to show this ATTV story to all tow operators.

Oz will be working Tow Expo in Arlington, Texas and AT Expo in Baltimore, speaking to towers about the Spirit Ride planned for next year to honor towers fallen and to promote the moveover laws.

Tow Industry Week will be covering the Spirit Ride as it happens with daily coverage as the odyssey takes place across the country.

Tower Owes $78k for Tolls New Jersey tower Spidron Fragoulias was arrested July 7 and his vehicle was impounded after crossing the Goethals Bridge onto Staten Island, N.Y., a Port Authority spokesman said.

Fragoulias’ flatbed entered an EZPass lane, but no toll was recorded because the account was no longer valid. An officer pulled him over, and a check revealed the suspect has more than 850 violations on multiple E-ZPass accounts with $36,256 in unpaid tolls, plus $42,350 in penalties. Fragoulias was arrested and charged with petit larceny and theft of services.

Source: silive.com.

Borough Secures Funds for Tow Truck Queens (N.Y.) Borough President Melinda Katz and state Sen. Leroy Comrie have secured $450,000 to help the NYPD purchase a heavyduty tow truck specifically to target truck violation enforcement in the borough.

“Borough President Katz has allocated $350,000 in Fiscal Year 2017 dollars to cover the full cost of the purchase of one heavy-duty NYPD tow truck that will be dedicated to Queens and give the NYPD an enforcement tool they need to specifically address the particular problem of illegally parked tractor-trailer trucks,” said a spokesperson for Katz.

Comrie confirmed that the state legislature had previously approved $100,000 for the purchase.

“We have so many complaints about tractor-trailers in residential areas and there are only about two tow trucks in the entire city,” Comrie said.

“The community needs those trucks. It’s a quality-of-life issue,” Comrie added. “I know the NYPD has a budget — still we can try and help out.”

Source: qchron.com.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • NORTH 83

Wis. Companies Protest Policy About a dozen tow operators in Janesville, Wis., protested a recent Janesville Police Department policy change that determines which companies the department calls for roadside service.

The police department recently decided it would call only towing companies that are stationed within city limits and have staffed brick-andmortar locations. Four companies are now on the police's rotation list. Seven other companies from the list have been removed, as of press time.

Chad Hill, owner of K.C. Towing, which is in the process of establishing a physical location, accused police of favoritism toward other towing companies. He also said towing companies should have been given more notice about the new requirements before being taken off the list, even if only temporarily.

Every company previously on the list was notified of the new policy in June, police said.

Source: gazettextra.com

Navistar Adds Parts Sales VP International Truck (internationaltrucks.com) now offers new, predictive cruise control technology on its ProStar and LoneStar Class 8 on-highway trucks. Predictive cruise control uses preinstalled GPS maps and the latest commercial route data to make adjustments to cruising speed.

“Because the GPS maps and route data are already loaded, this smart technology will enable fleets and drivers to obtain greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions right out of the box,” said Denny Mooney, SVP of Global Product Development. “As a result, drivers who frequently run different routes will experience the same benefit as drivers who are used to driving a standard route.”

Predictive cruise control optimizes cruising speed based on topographical GPS data inputs to help maximize fuel

NORTH 84 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

economy. It will monitor driver speed, engine load, weight and the road grade in order to optimize the vehicle’s performance based on the road ahead.

AAA: Not All Gas Is Equal New testing from AAA (aaa.com) has uncovered significant differences in the quality of gasoline sold at fuel retailers in the United States. The independent laboratory testing compared gasolines that meet TOP TIER standards—often marketed as having enhanced, engine-cleaning detergent additives—with gasoline brands that do not participate in the automakerbacked program.

AAA urges drivers to use a gasoline that meets TOP TIER standards.

Among brands tested, non-TOP TIER gasolines caused 19 times more engine deposits than TOP TIER brands after just 4,000 miles of simulated driving. Such carbon deposits are known to reduce fuel economy, increase emissions and negatively impact vehicle performance, particularly on newer vehicles. To protect vehicle investments, AAA urges drivers to use a gasoline that meets TOP TIER standards.

“As advertised, tested TOP TIER gasolines kept engines remarkably cleaner than other fuels we tested,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair.

New Tow Rules in Ogden A new towing ordinance in Ogden, Utah, aims at balancing competing property rights and so-called predatory towing practices.

The new law requires clear 18” x 24” signage at each side of every entrance of

parking areas where towing will occur, digital photos documenting the date, time and place that the vehicle parked in the wrong spot and institutes waiting periods before the tow can occur. After impounding a vehicle, police must be notified with key information on the date and time of tow and vehicle info.

Ogden resident Michael Love, who owns Love Towing, spoke in support of the new ordinance. He oversees apartment building parking lots where some tenants pay extra to have assigned stalls.

“I don’t do predatory towing, I don’t watch for people to park somewhere,” Love said, noting that people can retrieve their towed vehicles any time, any day from his impound lots.

Source: standard.net.

Kenworth Plant Honored The Kenworth Truck Co. (kenworth.com) assembly plant in Renton, Wash., recently received a Gold Award from the King County (Wash.) Industrial Waste Program that annually honors local facilities whose business practices contribute to protecting regional water quality.

Kenworth-Renton received the award for wastewater compliance covering discharge, permit, ordinance, reporting, self-monitoring, and King County monitoring. In addition, the plant currently holds a Best Workplace for Recycling and Waste Reduction Award presented in 2015 by King County’s Solid Waste Division. *** Kenworth’s 84-page Medium Duty Cabover Body Builder Manual and new Kenworth cabover video are now available. The manual offers detailed sections on safety and compliance, dimensions, exhaust and aftertreatment, frame layouts and body mounting, frame modifications, and electrical. The manual contains information and guidelines useful in the truck body planning and installation processes.

To obtain a copy of the manual, contact your Kenworth dealer or visit kenworth.com.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • NORTH 85

Liability Insurance

by Don Archer

Employment Practices Liability Insurance protects employers against lawsuits brought by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful firing and many other employment issues.

L

ike most new business owners, when you were first starting out one of the last things to cross your mind was how your business should be structured. This is to be expected since most likely you were the only one answering the phones, running the calls and paying all the bills. You were doing everything possible just to keep your fledgling business afloat. As far as you were concerned, you had all the structure you needed.

But as you grew, you experienced the pain of not being able to keep up.

So you made some changes and hired some help. This forced you to learn about employment law and withholding requirements. You became aware of other employment issues that you were sure couldn’t possibly pertain to your small business.

Of course, what works for large companies may not work so well for smaller ones. But if many of these issues aren’t addressed early on you

NORTH 86 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

can create a lopsided business that focuses mainly on customer acquisition and ignores the needs of employees. This can have a catastrophic effect in more ways than one.

To begin with, if sufficient attention isn’t given to employee issues it can lead to lowered morale and higher than usual rates of attrition. That can have an affect on your ability to provide a great customer experience and eventually cost you business.

But there’s an even greater danger lurking: attorneys.

You may be fodder for both money-starved government types, looking to put another notch on their belt and/or an ever-growing pool of private attorneys who will twist and exploit any avenue to make a buck.

The chance that your small business will get a call from one of these guys is even greater, because they tend to stay away from the larger companies.

Why?

Because they go after the lowhanging fruit.

Most larger companies are prepared to handle an employee lawsuit.

They know the stakes and have already planned for the worst. They have attorneys, a handbook, and one other thing that you should have too; they have an insurance policy that covers them, just in case their legal team is tripped up or the law changes mid-stream. They have what’s called Employment Practices Liability Insurance, or EPLI. EPLI protects employers against suits brought by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful firing and many other employment issues. It can be added to an existing business policy or you can purchase it as a standalone insurance policy. The best part is it doesn’t cost very much and it can save you a whole lot of headache.

But, as with any other insurance policy, there are things you’ll want to be aware of.

First, an EPLI policy only covers claims made during the period in which you have coverage in place.

This is important because sometimes you won’t hear from a disgruntled employee for months or years. If you let your coverage lapse you could be in trouble.

Secondly, EPLI alone does not cover any wage and hour disputes.

Let’s say you terminate an employee and he’s driving home, still broiling from what he considers to be a wrongful termination. Along the freeway he notices a billboard put up by one of the local attorneys, saying “Has Your Employer Cheated You On Overtime? Call Now!” To defend a claim like that you’ll need to get what’s called a “Wage and Hour Endorsement” added to your EPLI. But know this: In most cases, your “Wage and Hour Endorsement” will only cover your defense expenses.

If you lose the suit and are found guilty of operating outside the Fair

Labor Standards Act’s guidelines for employee compensation, you’ll still be on the hook for any judgments, settlements and penalties.

Regardless of your company’s size you should have an employee handbook that provides job descriptions, employee expectations, the company’s position on discrimination and a multitude of other guidelines. This will help to cover your rear, and give you something to point to if a judge or prosecuting attorney ever questions your integrity.

But equally as important is EPLI with a Wage and Hour Endorsement.

Go out and get it now and add a little structure and peace of mind to your business.

Don G. Archer is a multi-published author, educator and speaker helping others to build and start successful towing businesses around the country at TheTowAcademy.com. Don and his wife, Brenda, formerly owned and operated Broadway Wrecker in Jefferson City, Mo. He is the Tow Business Editor for Tow Industry Week; email him direct at don@thetowacademy.com.

Tower Helps Heart Attack Victim When his car broke down, Paul Brittenham had no idea the tower who showed up would soon play a critical role in his life. While in the cab of the A & L Towing truck in Tucson, Ariz., Brittenham began to have severe chest pains and turned to towman Eric Ahumada for help.

With every minute that ticked by, it was getting harder for him to breathe. Ahumada rushed him to the hospital and even went in to stay by his side until his wife arrived. As Brittenham continues to recover, he reflects on the kindness of a stranger who he now considers a friend.

“I couldn’t believe there was somebody around willing to do that,” Brittenham said.

Source: tucsonnewsnow.com. .

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • NORTH 87

NORTH 88 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

CopyrightŠ2016 American Towman Magazine. Characters and stories are fictitious; no resemblance to real life characters is intended.

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

Tower Owes $78k for Tolls New Jersey tower Spidron Fragoulias was arrested July 7 and his vehicle was impounded after crossing the Goethals Bridge onto Staten Island, N.Y., a Port Authority spokesman said.

Fragoulias’ flatbed entered an EZPass lane, but no toll was recorded because the account was no longer valid. An officer pulled him over, and a check revealed the suspect has more than 850 violations on multiple E-ZPass accounts with $36,256 in unpaid tolls, plus $42,350 in penalties. Fragoulias was arrested and charged with petit larceny and theft of services.

Source: silive.com.

Borough Secures Funds for Tow Truck Queens (N.Y.) Borough President Melinda Katz and state Sen. Leroy Comrie have secured $450,000 to help the NYPD purchase a heavyduty tow truck specifically to target truck violation enforcement in the borough.

“Borough President Katz has allocated $350,000 in Fiscal Year 2017 dollars to cover the full cost of the purchase of one heavy-duty NYPD tow truck that will be dedicated to Queens and give the NYPD an enforcement tool they need to specifically address the particular problem of illegally parked tractor-trailer trucks,” said a spokesperson for Katz.

Comrie confirmed that the state legislature had previously approved $100,000 for the purchase.

“We have so many complaints about tractor-trailers in residential areas and there are only about two tow trucks in the entire city,” Comrie said.

“The community needs those trucks. It’s a quality-of-life issue,” Comrie added. “I know the NYPD has a budget — still we can try and help out.”

Source: qchron.com.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • SOUTH 83

Wis. Companies Protest Policy About a dozen tow operators in Janesville, Wis., protested a recent Janesville Police Department policy change that determines which companies the department calls for roadside service.

The police department recently decided it would call only towing companies that are stationed within city limits and have staffed brick-andmortar locations. Four companies are now on the police's rotation list. Seven other companies from the list have been removed, as of press time.

Chad Hill, owner of K.C. Towing, which is in the process of establishing a physical location, accused police of favoritism toward other towing companies. He also said towing companies should have been given more notice about the new requirements before being taken off the list, even if only temporarily.

Every company previously on the

SOUTH 84 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

list was notified of the new policy in June, police said.

Source: gazettextra.com.

Navistar Adds Parts Sales VP International Truck (internationaltrucks.com) now offers new, predictive cruise control technology on its ProStar and LoneStar Class 8 on-highway trucks. Predictive cruise control uses preinstalled GPS maps and the latest commercial route data to make adjustments to cruising speed.

“Because the GPS maps and route data are already loaded, this smart technology will enable fleets and drivers to obtain greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions right out of the box,” said Denny Mooney, SVP of Global Product Development. “As a result, drivers who frequently run different routes will experience the same benefit as drivers who are used to driving a standard route.”

Predictive cruise control optimizes

cruising speed based on topographical GPS data inputs to help maximize fuel economy. It will monitor driver speed, engine load, weight and the road grade in order to optimize the vehicle’s performance based on the road ahead.

Rush Names New COO Rush Enterprises Inc. (rushenterprises.com) recently appointed Michael J. McRoberts as SVP and Chief Operating Officer of the company, effective immediately.

In his new role, McRoberts is responsible for all Rush Truck Centers’ operations, including sales of aftermarket parts, service and body shop operations and the company’s vehicle up-fitting, CNG fuel systems and vehicle telematics business.

McRoberts continues to report to W.M. “Rusty” Rush, chairman, CEO and president of the company.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • SOUTH 85

Liability Insurance

by Don Archer

Employment Practices Liability Insurance protects employers against lawsuits brought by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful firing and many other employment issues.

L

ike most new business owners, when you were first starting out one of the last things to cross your mind was how your business should be structured. This is to be expected since most likely you were the only one answering the phones, running the calls and paying all the bills. You were doing everything possible just to keep your fledgling business afloat. As far as you were concerned, you had all the structure you needed.

But as you grew, you experienced the pain of not being able to keep up.

So you made some changes and hired some help. This forced you to learn about employment law and withholding requirements. You became aware of other employment issues that you were sure couldn’t possibly pertain to your small business.

Of course, what works for large companies may not work so well for smaller ones. But if many of these issues aren’t addressed early on you

can create a lopsided business that focuses mainly on customer acquisition and ignores the needs of employees. This can have a catastrophic effect in more ways than one.

To begin with, if sufficient attention isn’t given to employee issues it can lead to lowered morale and higher than usual rates of attrition. That can have an affect on your ability to provide a great customer experience and eventually cost you business.

There’s an even greater danger lurking: attorneys.

But there’s an even greater danger lurking: attorneys.

You may be fodder for both money-starved government types, looking to put another notch on their belt and/or an ever-growing pool of private attorneys who will twist and

SOUTH 86 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

exploit any avenue to make a buck.

The chance that your small business will get a call from one of these guys is even greater, because they tend to stay away from the larger companies.

Why? Because they go after the lowhanging fruit.

Most larger companies are prepared to handle an employee lawsuit.

They know the stakes and have already planned for the worst. They have attorneys, a handbook, and one other thing that you should have too, they have an insurance policy that covers them, just in case their legal team is tripped up or the law changes mid-stream. They have what’s called Employment Practices Liability Insurance, or EPLI. EPLI protects employers against suits brought by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful firing and many other employment issues. It can be added to an existing business policy or you can purchase it as a stand-

alone insurance policy. The best part is it doesn’t cost very much and it can save you a whole lot of headache.

But, as with any other insurance policy, there are things you’ll want to be aware of.

First, an EPLI policy only covers claims made during the period in which you have coverage in place.

This is important because sometimes you won’t hear from a disgruntled employee for months or years. If you let your coverage lapse you could be in trouble.

Secondly, EPLI alone does not cover any wage and hour disputes.

Let’s say you terminate an employee and he’s driving home, still broiling from what he considers to be a wrongful termination. Along the freeway he notices a billboard put up by one of the local attorneys, saying “Has Your Employer Cheated You On Overtime? Call Now!” To defend a claim like that you’ll need to get what’s called a “Wage and Hour Endorsement” added to your EPLI. But know this: In most cases, your “Wage and Hour Endorsement” will only cover your defense expenses. If you lose the suit and are found guilty of operating outside the Fair Labor Standards Act’s guidelines for employee compensation, you’ll still be on the hook for any judgments, settlements and penalties.

Regardless of your company’s size you should have an employee handbook that provides job descriptions, employee expectations, the company’s position on discrimination and a multitude of other guidelines. This will help to cover your rear, and give you something to point to if a judge or prosecuting attorney ever questions your integrity.

But equally as important is EPLI with a Wage and Hour Endorsement.

Go out and get it now and add a little structure and peace of mind to your business.

Don G. Archer is a multi-published author, educator and speaker helping others to build and start successful towing businesses around the country at TheTowAcademy.com. Don and his wife, Brenda, formerly owned and operated Broadway Wrecker in Jefferson City, Mo. He is the Tow Business Editor for Tow Industry Week; email him direct at don@thetowacademy.com.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • SOUTH 87

Kenworth Plant Honored The Kenworth Truck Co. (kenworth.com) assembly plant in Renton, Wash., recently received a Gold Award from the King County (Wash.) Industrial Waste Program that annually honors local facilities whose business practices contribute to protecting regional water quality.

Kenworth-Renton received the award for wastewater compliance covering discharge, permit, ordinance, reporting, self-monitoring, and King County monitoring. In addition, the plant currently holds a Best Workplace for Recycling and Waste Reduction Award presented in 2015 by King County’s Solid Waste Division. *** Kenworth’s 84-page Medium Duty Cabover Body Builder Manual and new Kenworth cabover video are now available. The manual offers detailed sections on safety and compliance, dimensions, exhaust and aftertreatment, frame layouts and body mounting, frame modifications, and electrical. The manual contains information and guidelines useful in the truck body planning and installation processes.

To obtain a copy of the manual, contact your Kenworth dealer or visit kenworth.com.

New Tow Rules in Ogden A new towing ordinance in Ogden, Utah, aims at balancing competing property rights and so-called predatory towing practices.

The new law requires clear 18” x 24” signage at each side of every entrance of parking areas where towing will occur, digital photos documenting the date, time and place that the vehicle parked in the wrong spot and institutes waiting periods before the tow can occur. After impounding a vehicle, police must be notified with key information on the date and time of tow and vehicle info.

Ogden resident Michael Love, who owns Love Towing, spoke in support of the new ordinance. He oversees

apartment building parking lots where some tenants pay extra to have assigned stalls.

“I don’t do predatory towing, I don’t watch for people to park somewhere,” Love said, noting that people can retrieve their towed vehicles any time, any day from his impound lots.

Source: standard.net.

AAA: Not All Gas Is Equal New testing from AAA (aaa.com) has uncovered significant differences in the quality of gasoline sold at fuel retailers in the United States. The independent laboratory testing compared gasolines that meet TOP TIER standards—often marketed as having enhanced, engine-cleaning detergent additives—with gasoline brands that do not participate in the automakerbacked program.

Among brands tested, non-TOP TIER gasolines caused 19 times more engine deposits than TOP TIER brands after just 4,000 miles of simulated driving. Such carbon deposits are known to reduce fuel economy, increase emissions and negatively impact vehicle performance, particularly on newer vehicles. To protect vehicle investments, AAA urges drivers to use a gasoline that meets TOP TIER standards.

“As advertised, tested TOP TIER gasolines kept engines remarkably cleaner than other fuels we tested,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair.

Tower Helps Heart Attack Victim When his car broke down, Paul Brittenham had no idea the tower who showed up would soon play a critical role in his life. While in the cab of the A & L Towing truck in Tucson, Ariz., Brittenham began to have severe chest pains and turned to towman Eric Ahumada for help.

With every minute that ticked by, it was getting harder for him to breathe.

Ahumada rushed him to the hospital and even went in to stay by his side

SOUTH 88 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

until his wife arrived. As Brittenham continues to recover, he reflects on the kindness of a stranger who he now considers a friend.

“I couldn’t believe there was somebody around willing to do that,” Brittenham said.

Source: tucsonnewsnow.com.

North Dixie Joins Power Heavy Duty North Dixie Truck and Trailer Inc. (northdixietruck.com) in Lima, Ohio, is the newest member company to join Power Heavy Duty (powerheavyduty.net).

North Dixie Truck and Trailer serves fleets, independent service facilities, municipalities and owneroperators in northwest and central Ohio with tractor/trailer heavy-duty truck parts, tools and equipment and shop supplies. The company’s repair business includes extensive trailer repair and minor truck repair.

“The Power Heavy Duty team is pleased to welcome North Dixie Truck and Trailer to our growing network,” said Mark Iasiello, general manager of Power Heavy Duty.

VW Funds Emissions Efforts Part of Volkswagen AG’s recent settlement with the Federal Trade Commission over its emissions scandal will be used to fund diesel emissions-reduction efforts in heavy-duty trucking.

VW agreed to pay up to $15.3 billion in a settlement with regulators requiring the automaker to buy back vehicles and set aside funding for cleaner technologies. The company is setting aside $2.7 billion as an environmental remediation fund.

The emissions-reduction funding will be used to incentivize replacing older heavy-duty diesel vehicles, similar to the EPA’s current Diesel Emissions Reduction Act program.

The money from VW’s settlement would represent a significant boost to DERA’s efforts to replace older, polluting vehicles.Source: truckinginfo.com.

Kenworth Plant Honored The Kenworth Truck Co. (kenworth.com) assembly plant in Renton, Wash., recently received a Gold Award from the King County (Wash.)

Industrial Waste Program that annually honors local facilities whose business practices contribute to protecting regional water quality.

Kenworth-Renton received the award for wastewater compliance covering discharge, permit, ordinance, reporting, self-monitoring, and King County monitoring. In addition, the plant currently holds a Best Workplace for Recycling and Waste Reduction Award presented in 2015 by King County’s Solid Waste Division. *** Kenworth’s 84-page Medium Duty Cabover Body Builder Manual and new Kenworth cabover video are now available. The manual offers detailed sections on safety and compliance, dimensions, exhaust and aftertreatment, frame layouts and body mounting, frame modifications, and electrical. The manual contains information and guidelines useful in the truck body planning and installation processes.

To obtain a copy of the manual, contact your Kenworth dealer or visit kenworth.com.

AAA: Not All Gas Is Equal New testing from AAA (aaa.com) has uncovered significant differences in the quality of gasoline sold at fuel retailers in the United States. The independent laboratory testing compared gasolines that meet TOP TIER standards—often marketed as having enhanced, engine-cleaning detergent additives—with gasoline brands that do not participate in the automakerbacked program.

Among brands tested, non-TOP TIER gasolines caused 19 times more engine deposits than TOP TIER brands after just 4,000 miles of simulated driving. Such carbon deposits are known to reduce fuel economy, increase emissions and negatively impact vehicle Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • MIDWEST 83

performance, particularly on newer vehicles. To protect vehicle investments, AAA urges drivers to use a gasoline that meets TOP TIER standards.

“As advertised, tested TOP TIER gasolines kept engines remarkably cleaner than other fuels we tested,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair.

VW Funds Emissions Efforts Part of Volkswagen AG’s recent settlement with the Federal Trade Commission over its emissions scandal will be used to fund diesel emissions-reduction efforts in heavy-duty trucking.

VW agreed to pay up to $15.3 billion in a settlement with regulators requiring the automaker to buy back vehicles and set aside funding for cleaner technologies. The company is setting aside $2.7 billion as an environmental remediation fund.

The emissions-reduction funding will be used to incentivize replacing older heavy-duty diesel vehicles, similar to the EPA’s current Diesel Emissions Reduction Act program.

The money from VW’s settlement would represent a significant boost to DERA’s efforts to replace older, polluting vehicles.Source: truckinginfo.com.

North Dixie Joins Power Heavy Duty North Dixie Truck and Trailer Inc. (northdixietruck.com) in Lima, Ohio, is the newest member company to join Power Heavy Duty (powerheavyduty.net).

North Dixie Truck and Trailer serves fleets, independent service facilities, municipalities and owneroperators in northwest and central Ohio with tractor/trailer heavy-duty truck parts, tools and equipment and shop supplies. The company’s repair business includes extensive trailer repair and minor truck repair.

“The Power Heavy Duty team is pleased to welcome North Dixie Truck and Trailer to our growing network,” said Mark Iasiello, general manager of Power Heavy Duty.

MIDWEST 84 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

TOWMAN.COM - August 2016 • MIDWEST 85

Liability Insurance

by Don Archer

Employment Practices Liability Insurance protects employers against lawsuits brought by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful firing and many other employment issues.

L

ike most new business owners, when you were first starting out one of the last things to cross your mind was how your business should be structured. This is to be expected since most likely you were the only one answering the phones, running the calls and paying all the bills. You were doing everything possible just to keep your fledgling business afloat. As far as you were concerned, you had all the structure you needed.

But as you grew, you experienced the pain of not being able to keep up.

So you made some changes and hired some help. This forced you to learn about employment law and withholding requirements. You became aware of other employment issues that you were sure couldn’t possibly pertain to your small business.

Of course, what works for large companies may not work so well for smaller ones. But if many of these issues aren’t addressed early on you can create a lopsided business that

focuses mainly on customer acquisition and ignores the needs of employees. This can have a catastrophic effect in more ways than one.

To begin with, if sufficient attention isn’t given to employee issues it can lead to lowered morale and higher than usual rates of attrition. That can have an affect on your ability to provide a great customer experience and eventually cost you business.

There’s an even greater danger lurking: attorneys.

But there’s an even greater danger lurking: attorneys.

You may be fodder for both money-starved government types, looking to put another notch on their belt and/or an ever-growing pool of private attorneys who will twist and exploit any avenue to make a buck.

The chance that your small business

MIDWEST 86 • August 2016 - TOWMAN.COM

will get a call from one of these guys is even greater, because they tend to stay away from the larger companies.

Why? Because they go after the lowhanging fruit.

Most larger companies are prepared to handle an employee lawsuit.

They know the stakes and have already planned for the worst. They have attorneys, a handbook, and one other thing that you should have too; they have an insurance policy that covers them, just in case their legal team is tripped up or the law changes mid-stream. They have what’s called Employment Practices Liability Insurance, or EPLI. EPLI protects employers against suits brought by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful firing and many other employment issues. It can be added to an existing business policy or you can purchase it as a stand-alone insurance policy. The best part is it

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doesn’t cost very much and it can save you a whole lot of headache.

But, as with any other insurance policy, there are things you’ll want to be aware of.

First, an EPLI policy only covers claims made during the period in which you have coverage in place.

This is important because sometimes you won’t hear from a disgruntled employee for months or years. If you let your coverage lapse you could be in trouble.

Secondly, EPLI alone does not cover any wage and hour disputes.

Let’s say you terminate an employee and he’s driving home, still broiling from what he considers to be a wrongful termination. Along the freeway he notices a billboard put up by one of the local attorneys, saying “Has Your Employer Cheated You On Overtime? Call Now!” To defend a claim like that you’ll need to get what’s called a “Wage and Hour Endorsement” added to your EPLI. But know this: In most cases, your “Wage and Hour Endorsement” will only cover your defense

expenses. If you lose the suit and are found guilty of operating outside the Fair Labor Standards Act’s guidelines for employee compensation, you’ll still be on the hook for any judgments, settlements and penalties.

Regardless of your company’s size you should have an employee handbook that provides job descriptions, employee expectations, the company’s position on discrimination and a multitude of other guidelines. This will help to cover your rear, and give you something to point to if a judge or prosecuting attorney ever questions your integrity.

But equally as important is EPLI with a Wage and Hour Endorsement.

Go out and get it now and add a little structure and peace of mind to your business.

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Don G. Archer is a multi-published author, educator and speaker helping others to build and start successful towing businesses around the country at TheTowAcademy.com. Don and his wife, Brenda, formerly owned and operated Broadway Wrecker in Jefferson City, Mo. He is the Tow Business Editor for Tow Industry Week; email him direct at don@thetowacademy.com.

Tower Owes $78k for Tolls New Jersey tower Spidron Fragoulias was arrested July 7 and his vehicle was impounded after crossing the Goethals Bridge onto Staten Island, N.Y., a Port Authority spokesman said.

Fragoulias’ flatbed entered an EZPass lane, but no toll was recorded because the account was no longer valid. An officer pulled him over, and a check revealed the suspect has more than 850 violations on multiple E-ZPass accounts with $36,256 in unpaid tolls, plus $42,350 in penalties. Fragoulias was arrested and charged with petit larceny and theft of services.

Source: silive.com.

Borough Secures Funds for Tow Truck Queens (N.Y.) Borough President Melinda Katz and state Sen. Leroy Comrie have secured $450,000 to help the NYPD purchase a heavyduty tow truck specifically to target truck violation enforcement in the borough.

“Borough President Katz has allocated $350,000 in Fiscal Year 2017 dollars to cover the full cost of the purchase of one heavy-duty NYPD tow truck that will be dedicated to Queens and give the NYPD an enforcement tool they need to specifically address the particular problem of illegally parked tractor-trailer trucks,” said a spokesperson for Katz.

Comrie confirmed that the state legislature had previously approved $100,000 for the purchase.

“We have so many complaints about tractor-trailers in residential areas and there are only about two tow trucks in the entire city,” Comrie said.

“The community needs those trucks. It’s a quality-of-life issue,” Comrie added. “I know the NYPD has a budget — still we can try and help out.”

Source: qchron.com.

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Work the Passenger side–Stay Safe!

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Tower Helps Heart Attack Victim When his car broke down, Paul Brittenham had no idea the tower who showed up would soon play a critical role in his life. While in the cab of the A & L Towing truck in Tucson, Ariz., Brittenham began to have severe chest pains and turned to towman Eric Ahumada for help.

With every minute that ticked by, it was getting harder for him to breathe. Ahumada rushed him to the hospital and even went in to stay by his side until his wife arrived. As Brittenham continues to recover, he reflects on the kindness of a stranger who he now considers a friend.

“I couldn’t believe there was somebody around willing to do that,” Brittenham said.

Source: tucsonnewsnow.com.

Work the non-traffic side–Stay Safe!

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