Tow truck scams: How to avoid towing scams after an accident
Avoid towing scams! Know what to do after a crash.
Being in a car accident is one of the most stressful and frustrating experiences in life.
Add in a dodgy tow truck driver trying to make a quick buck off your misfortune, and it’s practically a nightmare.
Sadly, though, tow truck scams are on the rise in South Africa, and every motorist needs to stay sharp.
According to Juan Hanekom, national director of the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (Sambra), there’s a growing number of dodgy operators pretending to be authorised service providers at accident scenes.
These scam artists often prey on drivers when they’re shaken up and not thinking clearly.
The Citizen recently spoke to Hanekom, who shared some essential tips for drivers to avoid falling into these tow truck traps.
Here’s what you need to know:
ALSO READ: New SAPS scam: Don’t fall for this!
How to protect yourself from tow truck scams
- Know your insurer’s approved tow service: Before you even hit the road, save your insurer’s preferred towing service number in your phone. If you’re in an accident, you call them. Never let a stranger handle it for you.
- Double-check calls: If someone calls claiming to be from your insurance, don’t just believe them. Hang up and call your insurer directly using their official number.
- Check for proper identification: Only deal with tow truck drivers from accredited service providers. If they can’t show proper identification or paperwork, don’t take a chance
- Read before you sign anything: Never sign a form, contract or digital signature without reading it first. Some of these sneaky documents could leave you stuck with huge, unexpected towing fees.
- Phone a friend (or family member): If you’re not sure what to do, phone someone you trust for advice before agreeing to any towing arrangements.
Most towing companies are legit, but the shady ones are getting smarter.
Stay calm, take your time, and follow the proper steps.
It could save you money, time, and a major headache later.
This safety advice was shared by The Citizen in an interview with Juan Hanekom of Sambra.
HOW TO LISTEN TO EAST COAST RADIO
1. Listen to East Coast Radio on the FM (frequency modulation) spectrum between 94 and 95 FM on your radio.
2. Listen live to ECR by clicking here or download the ECR App (iOS/Android).
3. Listen to East Coast Radio on the DStv audio bouquet.
4. Switch to the audio bouquet on your OpenView decoder and browse to channel 606.
5. Listen to us on Amazon Alexa
Follow us on social media:
· TikTok
MORE ON EAST COAST RADIO
Have a similar story or something unique to share? Email us at [email protected], we would love to hear from you!