Blitz results in 168 charges to Ottawa tow firms, drivers

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A seven-week blitz by the Ottawa Police Service has resulted in 168 charges against tow truck operators and drivers.

In a release on Feb. 20, police said officers had been conducting checks since Jan. 1 to ensure the towing industry complied with the Towing and Safety Storage Enforcement Act, the Highway Traffic Act and the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act.

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In all, charges were laid against 29 companies and 47 drivers.

“The main goal of this operation was to keep the public safe and protect consumers by making sure tow truck operators and drivers followed the rules,” police said in a statement.

“Key issues covered included showing information clearly, obtaining consent for services, and respecting inspection guidelines.”

Many of the charges involved failing to obtain consent to tow vehicles, a common complaint by drivers who were involved in crashes.

Under Ontario regulations, an owner’s consent is required to tow a vehicle unless the tow is ordered by police or an authorized official. Owners can choose which company will tow the vehicle, police said.

“The towing enforcement team’s efforts demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding residents from unlawful towing activities,” Acting Insp. Dave Merkel said in a statement.

“We will continue enforcing regulations that address public safety and accountability in the tow industry.”

Police said 13 of the 16 yards checked were found to be non-compliant with the Towing and Safety Storage Enforcement Act.

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As of Jan. 1, 2024, tow operators are required to have certificates to operate in Ontario and to show the name of the company and a certificate number on each of their tow trucks, consent forms and invoices.

Here is a summary of the charges, according to the Ottawa Police Service:

• Provide services without consent to tow
• Fail to document consent to tow
• Fail to comply with tow certificate
• Fail to display name and certificate number on tow truck
• Fail to display sign at yard
• Insecure load
• Fail to comply with Towing and Safety Storage Enforcement Act
• Defective brakes
• Inaccurate driver vehicle inspection report

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