General News

Know your rights when having a vehicle towed

December 5, 2024   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

Over the past several years there has been growing concern in Ontario over unscrupulous tow companies that take advantage of people after an automobile accident or those needing a tow for a disabled vehicle.

New legislation has been put into place to help consumers get a fair shake when stranded on the side of the road.

Tow truck drivers, towing companies, and vehicle storage providers must abide by a code of conduct and be certified to offer services in Ontario.

As a consumer, you have rights related to providing consent to tow, where your vehicle is towed, accessing your vehicle, vehicle storage facilities, and rates and payment.

As of Jan. 1, 2024, tow operators are required by law to have a certificate of operation in Ontario and show the name of the company and the certificate number on all their tow trucks as well as on consent forms and invoices. Tow truck drivers must present a copy of their tow driver certificate upon request.

When it comes to consent to tow, unless initiated by the police or an authorized official, your consent is required to tow your vehicle.

You have the right to choose which company will tow your vehicle (except in a restricted tow zone), and to choose where your vehicle will be towed.

Before moving your vehicle, tow truck drivers and towing companies must give you their rates and give you a list of your rights as a customer.

They must get your consent to tow on a form that includes the name of the tow driver and operator, the tow driver’s certificate number if they have one, and their operator certificate number.

They must give you an unaltered copy of the form that documents your consent and contains all information required from them by law.

Do not sign a blank document. Make sure the required information is on the form before you sign it.

When towing your vehicle, tow drivers must take the most direct route when dropping off your vehicle at the location they have been instructed to bring it to and take reasonable precautions to avoid further damage to your vehicle.

You, or the person acting on behalf of the vehicle owner are allowed to access the vehicle unless police direct you to not access the vehicle.

The rates for towing or vehicle storage services must be given to you before providing services.

Operators must also post their rates at their office or place of business, on their website (if they have one), and at the location where your vehicle is stored.

The towing or storage operator cannot charge you more than their maximum rate.

These rules are in place to protect consumers and make sure the towing industry is competitive and regulated. 

Readers Comments (0)