Should Alberta Crack Down on Predatory Towing Practices?

Official title: Consumer Protection Engagement: Predatory Towing and Storage Practices

Informational Policy & Studies Finance & Consumer Transportation
Ever been in a fender-bender and had a tow truck show up uninvited, pressuring you to use their service? Alberta's heard the complaints. The government is looking at ways to stop predatory towing—drivers who create false urgency, claim they were called by police, then hit you with massive fees while hiding where they took your car.

Why This Matters

Got into a car accident? You're already stressed. Now imagine a tow truck driver pressuring you to sign something while claiming the cops sent them. Then you get a bill for hundreds—sometimes thousands—and they won't tell you where your car is until you pay. This happens to Albertans, and the government wants to stop it.

What Could Change

Alberta could introduce new rules requiring tow operators to disclose fees upfront and tell you where your vehicle is being taken. Penalties for misrepresenting police referrals could be added. The province might also cap storage fees or require licensing for tow operators.

Key Issues

  • Should tow operators be required to disclose fees before towing?
  • How should the government address tow trucks arriving uninvited at accident scenes?
  • Should there be caps on towing and storage fees?
  • Should tow operators be required to disclose vehicle location immediately?

How to Participate

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