AUTOMOTIVE
The Road to Regulation
New Ontario legislation protects you when you need a tow.
By William Scott | Illustration by Guilherme Henrique
ANYONE WHO'S EVER BEEN STRANDED on a busy road or highway knows what stress is about. The feeling of helplessness is compounded, often, by confusion as to what to do next and just what rights a driver has when interacting with tow truck operators. CAA has been working with the Ontario government for 10 years to create a Towing Bill of Rights for drivers and, at the same time, introducing a certification process for accredited towing professionals. These regulations ensure drivers have a safe and professional interaction when they need a tow. Motorists are now protected from price gouging and predatory practices, including altercations between tow truck drivers at accident scenes.
“CAA has been working with the Ontario government for 10 years to create a Towing Bill of Rights for drivers and, at the same time, introducing a certification process for accredited towing professionals.”
The new regulations are outlined in the CAA Towing Bill of Rights, which you can download, print and keep in your vehicle. Drivers will also find useful information in a CAA article called “How to Handle a Highway Breakdown or Collision,” which outlines the steps you should take when you need assistance. Knowing your rights can save you stress as well as unnecessary — and even unlawful — expenses. Towing operators must carry a certificate from Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation (MTO) and must show it to you upon request. They are required to provide a clear breakdown of costs and obtain your consent before towing your vehicle. They cannot charge you more than the MTO’s posted rates and cannot insist on a cash transaction; they are required to accept multiple forms of payment. In most cases, you are not required to sign anything, so be wary of signing blank forms or being pressured into using a specific repair shop. If you encounter a tow truck without an operator number on its side, that’s a major red flag. MTO is running a pilot program in designated tow zones — highly active portions of the 400, 401, 409, 427 and QEW. Only authorized towing companies can operate on these highways. (Visit ontario.ca/page/tow-zone-pilot-program for more information.) If you need assistance in these zones, call CAA first. Should a CAA tow truck not be able to get to you, an authorized truck will be automatically dispatched. As a CAA Member, you will be eligible for full or partial reimbursement. If it’s an emergency, always call 911. Motorists who are not CAA Members can reach an authorized tow company by calling 511. Knowing your rights and options before you end up in a situation is the best way to protect yourself. And your rights are protected after the fact, too. If you have questions or concern about how you’ve been treated, document everything and submit a complaint here. They can ensure your concerns are addressed and help rectify the situation. CAA