ADVOCACY
Updates to Ontario’s Towing Regulations
Needing a tow truck can be stressful. Knowing your rights as a driver empowers you to make decisions that will help you reach the best outcome.
By Richard Snyder
CAA tow truck operators provide a safe and professional experience any time you need assistance. | PHOTO: COURTESY OF CAA
THERE HAVE BEEN SIGNIFICANT CHANGES to Ontario’s towing regulations. Aiming to provide a safe and professional experience with tow truck operators, the new regulations protect motorists from predatory practices, including price gouging and altercations between tow operators at collision scenes.
New regulations are overseen by the Ministry of Transportation (MTO), and create a safer, more transparent towing environment. The new legislation is contained in CAA’s Towing Bill of Rights and Stranded Driver Tips guide, which outline the steps to take when you need roadside assistance. Both resources are downloadable. Keep them in the glove compartment of your vehicle as a quick reference to your rights as a motorist, along with recommended procedures to follow.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM TOWING SCAMS AND OVERCHARGES
Knowing your rights can save you stress as well as unnecessary — and even unlawful — expenses. The tow truck driver and the towing company/operator must each carry a certificate from the MTO and, upon your request, must show them to you. Towing operators are required to obtain your consent before towing your vehicle. They need to provide a clear breakdown of costs and cannot charge you more than the rates they’ve filed with MTO. They cannot insist on a cash transaction and are obligated to accept multiple forms of payment. In most cases, tow truck drivers cannot require you to sign anything, so do not sign a blank form or a form that commits you to a particular repair or body shop. Don’t be pressured into using a specific or suggested repair shop either — tow operators are prohibited from offering unsolicited recommendations. If you encounter a tow truck without an operator number clearly marked on the side of the tow truck, that’s a major red flag. Scammers will often manipulate you by being kind and supportive, making you feel like they are looking out for you — it is not always an aggressive interaction, so it’s hard to judge, especially under stressful circumstances, and best to confirm by reviewing their MTO certifications.
“Experiencing a roadside emergency such as a collision, flat tire or breakdown is stressful enough. Knowing what to do in that situation is key.”
WHAT TO DO IF YOU NEED A TOW IN ONTARIO
MTO has implemented a designated tow zone program on highly active portions of the 400, 401, 409, 427 and QEW. Only authorized towing companies, and CAA's roadside operators, can provide service in these zones. If you need assistance in these tow zones, call CAA first. Our CAA Associate will take the call details and the CAA Controller will work in partnership with the MTO to determine the safest way to rescue you. If a CAA Authorized Contractor is not permitted to conduct the tow, the MTO will dispatch an authorized truck. You will receive a receipt for the tow, which you can submit for reimbursement consideration at Roadside Reimbursement Claims — CAA South Central Ontario. If you feel unsafe, always call 911. Motorists who are not CAA Members can reach an authorized tow company by calling 511.
CAA has been — and continues to be — an advocate for legislative revisions. Experiencing a roadside emergency such as a collision, flat tire or breakdown is stressful enough. Knowing what to do in that situation is key. And while safety is the highest priority, it’s your right to get your car removed from the roadside properly and professionally, with your needs in mind.
If you have questions or concerns about how you’ve been treated by a tow truck operator, document everything and connect with The Ministry of Transportation, Commercial Safety and Compliance branch. They can ensure that your concerns are addressed, and they will help rectify the situation. CAA