SAMBRA warns motorists against fraudulent tow truck scams

Being involved in an accident is stressful enough without the added risk of being misled by unscrupulous tow truck operators.

A growing concern on South African roads is the increasing number of incidents where motorists, often in shock after an accident, are duped into handing over their vehicles under false pretences to the attending tow truck service who is purportedly, operating on the instruction of a valid insurer.

In the most recent case in Gauteng, a concerned mother alerted community members of the scam following an accident involving three cars her daughter had been involved in. She says that within minutes, tow truck operators appeared on the scene, asking if her daughter had insurance. One operator then handed the daughter a phone, claiming that her insurer was on the line. The person on the call warned her daughter that her airbag was at risk of inflating unexpectedly, posing serious danger if she attempted to move the car. The person also allegedly said that her insurance would not pay out if she continued to drive the car in this state.

Believing she was speaking to her ‘actual insurance provider’ , the daughter was persuaded to have her vehicle towed for an “assessment.” Later, she discovered that the car had not been taken to an accredited repair shop but was in fact being held at a tow truck company’s premises. To cap off a bad ordeal, in order to release the car, the company was demanding a release fee of R12,900. Fearing she had been scammed the family approached the SAPS who were willing to accompany her to collect the car but informed her that because she had signed a digital authorisation document—unaware of its full implications—there was little they could do. The form which was signed at the site of the accident was in fact a form giving the tow truck company authorisation to take the car and charge storage – Fees which accumulate hourly.

Juan Hanekom, National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), warns that while many towing companies operate professionally, a disturbing number take advantage of vulnerable motorists and this is definitely not an isolated case. “These deceptive tactics are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Motorists need to be aware that not all tow truck operators have their best interests at heart. If you are in an accident, you must remain calm and follow the correct procedures to avoid unnecessary costs and stress.”

Here is what you should you do in an accident:

• Know your Insurer’s approved tow service: Many insurers have contracts with accredited towing services. Keep these details handy and insist you personally call your insurer or broker. Do not allow a third party to do this.

• Verify before you act: Do not take a call from an unknown number at face value. If someone claims to be your insurer, end the call and dial your insurance company’s official number directly.

• Check identification: Ensure that any tow truck operator on the scene is from an accredited service provider.

• Read before you sign: Never sign any document without reading it thoroughly. Digital signatures, in particular, can authorise charges you may not be aware of.

• Call for help: If you are unsure, call a trusted family member or friend for guidance before agreeing to any towing service.

SAMBRA is committed to ensuring consumer protection and transparency in the vehicle repair sector. “Motorists should be cautious and empowered with knowledge. By being aware of these scams and taking preventive steps, they can protect themselves from financial and legal headaches,” concludes Hanekom.