Picture Courtesy of Amber Towing Website/Edmonton
Alberta is introducing tougher penalties to crack down on predatory towing practices, including steep fines and the possibility of jail time.
The province has taken earlier steps to address the issue, including creating a 200-metre exclusion zone around collision scenes last summer. Despite that, officials say predatory practices have continued.
The changes come amid growing concerns that some tow truck operators are taking advantage of drivers during stressful roadside situations. CTV News has reported cases where motorists were charged exorbitant fees for basic services, including one family forced to pay $2,500 to retrieve their vehicle from an impound lot.
Updates to the province’s Consumer Protection Act, set to take effect April 1, will allow authorities to impose fines ranging from $100,000 to $300,000, along with up to two years in jail for operators who break the rules.
Under the new rules, tow operators will be required to clearly disclose all towing and storage costs, get the drivers full consent before services begin, and provide detailed, itemized invoices.
Drivers must also be guaranteed free access to their vehicle and personal belongings.
Police continue to remind drivers that legitimate tow companies do not use aggressive or fear-based tactics, and motorists involved in collisions are encouraged to wait for first responders before agreeing to a tow.
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