Alberta introducing new measures to crack down on predatory tow trucking practices

New measures are coming to protect Albertans and penalize bad actors in the tow truck industry who use high pressure tactics to coerce drivers at collision scenes.

Alberta’s government has introduced new rules to crack down on predatory tow trucking practices.

Previously, the province had no specific penalties to address this behaviour, such as towing vehicles without consent, not providing necessary information to vehicle owners and exploiting emotionally vulnerable individuals who have been involved in a collision.

These changes will immediately target this dishonest behaviour by establishing a clear, provincewide standard for all tow truck drivers, ensuring better protection for Albertans.

Effective Aug. 8,  a 200-metre exclusion radius will be established around a collision scene prohibiting tow truck drivers or anyone directing tow trucks from pitching their services.

Anyone who enters the exclusion zone without being invited to do so by select personnel will be subject to a $1,000 fine.

“The last thing someone needs after a collision is to be taken advantage of by aggressive tow truck operators charging excessive fees. These new rules will protect Albertans from unethical behaviour, give drivers more control in a stressful moment, and help reduce insurance costs caused by inflated towing bills,” said Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors.

While tow truck operators are now restricted from approaching collision scenes uninvited, drivers, police and emergency services personnel can still request towing services when needed.

“Albertans have the right to select the towing company of their choice following a collision and should not feel pressured to immediately accept services offered at the scene. The EPS has made several arrests related to this predatory practice and are supportive of rules that offer those involved in collisions the space required to navigate an already taxing situation,” said Nicole Chapdelaine, Deputy Chief, Edmonton Police Service.

The Alberta government will continue to work with industry partners to identify further solutions to prevent predatory tow trucking practices.