Drivers have been warned to be on the lookout for fraudulent tow truck drivers looking to take advantage of distressed motorists across Los Angeles.
“These ‘tow truck bandits’ monitor radio traffic and rush to crash scenes, posing as helpful tow truck operators,” the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office posted on Instagram Wednesday.
The post goes on to say that once the operators tow your car, they demand outrageous fees or refuse to return the vehicle until the inflated charges are paid.
“This is fraud—and it’s illegal,” the DA’s Office states.
Motorists were urged to watch out for the following red flags after an accident:
- Tow trucks that show up before you called a tow company or police
- Tow drivers that insist on taking your car to a specific body shop
- Tow drivers that offer a ride share for you
The post also shared tips to protect yourself:
- Wait for police to arrive at the scene before agreeing to have your vehicle towed
- Ask officials whether anyone from emergency services called a tow truck for you and if so, which company
- Verify the tow truck company with your insurance or the California Highway Patrol
- Do not sign any documents until you have spoken with your insurance company
Drivers were urged to report suspected tow truck fraud to local law enforcement or the California Department of Insurance at 800-927-4357.
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