Predatory Pushbacks: Calgary city council considers $10,000 fine for predatory tow truck drivers

Calgary, Alberta — Calgary City Council is considering a maximum fine of $10,000 for predatory towing practices in the area.

The council has received complaints from motorists who, after being involved in collisions, were pressured by arriving tow truck drivers to accept inflated rates for their services, which could exceed $1,000.

At a community development meeting on Thursday, councillors voted 6-0 in favour of recommending new bylaw amendments.

According to reports, the recommendations include prohibiting tow truck drivers from approaching within 200 metres of a collision site unless requested by the involved drivers, a police officer, or a member of the Calgary Fire Department.

Tow truck drivers who cannot prove they were invited to the scene will face the $10,000 fine.

Jackie Richards, director of the Towing and Recovery Association of Alberta, suggested that the city should also consider seizing and impounding offending tow trucks to prevent drivers from evading fines and continuing predatory practices.